At The Vet Space, we believe in the transformative power of joy. Our Focus on Joy Initiative is dedicated to shifting the narrative for women veterans from one of trauma to one of healing, empowerment, and growth. This initiative is designed to provide veterans with the resources, experiences, and support they need to thrive, with joy as the centerpiece of our approach.

Core Principles

Fun in Nature: We organize outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and nature walks that bring women veterans together in beautiful, peaceful environments. These activities are designed to foster relaxation, camaraderie, and joy.

Wellness: Through partnerships with organizations that specialize in holistic healing, we provide access to wellness practices such as yoga, meditation, and wellness retreats. These activities support overall mental, emotional, and physical health, promoting resilience and growth.

Resources: We connect veterans with valuable information and local services tailored to their needs. Whether it’s guides, toolkits, or direct access to community support networks, we ensure that veterans have the resources they need to continue their journey towards joy and well-being.

Program Highlights

1. Joyful Retreats:
   Our retreats are designed to offer women veterans a space for relaxation, fun, and post-traumatic growth. With activities like hiking, yoga, art workshops, journaling sessions, and communal meals, these retreats provide a space for meaningful connections and joyful experiences.

2. Gratitude Hikes:
   These hikes bring women veterans together in beautiful natural settings, combining physical activity with gratitude practices that support mental and emotional wellness. Veterans are invited to reflect on their journey and connect with others in a supportive environment.

3. Kayaking and Paddle Boarding Adventures:
   These water-based activities allow veterans to enjoy the calming and empowering experience of being on the water, fostering confidence, resilience, and joy. We offer a beginner-friendly option to accommodate all comfort levels.

4. Joy Journals:
   Veterans are given journals to document moments of joy, gratitude, and positivity in their lives. These journals serve as a tool for reflection, encouraging veterans to focus on and amplify the joyful aspects of their lives.

5. Joyful Challenges:
   Monthly challenges encourage veterans to engage in activities that bring joy and growth, such as trying a new hobby, exploring a new place, or practicing mindfulness. These challenges build community and inspire veterans to support each other in their journeys.

Our Impact

The Focus on Joy Initiative aims to create measurable improvements in the mental, emotional, and social well-being of women veterans. By centering on joy and growth, our initiative helps veterans build resilience, foster a positive outlook, and develop strong support networks. Success is measured through participant feedback, tracking improvements in well-being, and the continued engagement of veterans in joyful activities. Our ultimate goal is to create a sustainable culture of joy, connection, and empowerment within The Vet Space community, where veterans lead lives full of fulfillment and positivity.

Challenge by Choice (CBC): Women can decide their level of participation in an activity, including whether or not to participate. CBC can also help create a supportive environment where people feel safe to back off if they're feeling overwhelmed or anxious.  No woman will ever be made to engage with an activity if she does not want to.