Milwaukee VA’s Center for Development & Civic Engagement Service hosted its inaugural Diva Day in early December. Forty-five female Veterans were able to attend the free event, which was spearheaded by the team to not only help provide quality donated items to the female Veterans but for them to feel seen and supported in every way that could be provided.
Veterans were encouraged to start with the clothing room. Every Veteran was welcomed with a tote bag when signing in. They were invited to fill the bag with all kinds of items, ranging from winter coats, clothing, jewelry and fuzzy socks. A local makeup consultant volunteered to showcase makeup demonstrations and provided free products to every Veteran.
Veterans engaged and in tears
A conference room was transformed into the spa room. The room included two massage chairs, calm lighting, aromatherapy, relaxation music and tables of various spa items for the Veterans. Whole Health staff provided a mindfulness group. The Veterans were fully engaged in the process and some broke down in tears.
Sara LeClaire, voluntary service specialist, said, “I thought it was a huge success, and our mission is to support all of our Veterans. During Diva Day, we wanted to highlight our female Veterans by recognizing them for all that they have sacrificed serving our country. We wanted to treat them like the divas that they are.”
Complimentary beverages were provided, including a hot chocolate bar with all the trimmings, specialty chocolate from a local chocolate store, non-alcoholic “bubbly” and gourmet rice crispy treats.
Plans are to move Diva Day closer to Mother’s Day in hopes that even more female Veterans can attend. Learn how you can support this endeavor or donate to your local VA.