Department of Veterans Services Women Veterans Advisory Committee

Since 1994, the Ohio Department of Veterans Services' Advisory Committee on Women Veterans has served to “locate, educate and advocate for all women veterans who served in the United States military.” The committee is dedicated to outreach through various initiatives including the creation of an informational Web site, the organization of a statewide women veterans conference and the promotion of benefits and superior health care for women veterans. The committee serves as a focal point of information for all women veterans. The committee acts as a liaison and advocate on behalf of women veterans with state legislators, veterans affairs administrators and county veterans service offices. Members of the committee ensure the programs and policies of the Department of Veterans Affairs remain open to women and are mindful of those elements of the veteran experience unique to women.

To assist with identifying the needs and concerns of women veterans in Ohio, we are asking for you to please take a moment to answer a few questions. The information you provide will help us in the planning of our conference in 2009 and beyond.

The committee is made up of women veterans representing all eras and branches of service. Each member is responsible for a specific region in the state and recruits volunteers to assist her in regional outreach. (A list of county representatives is below.) Committee members encourage women to identify themselves with pride and encourage them to stand up and be counted for their role in defense of this nation.

Informational sessions and local town meetings allow women veterans to come together to identify and address their concerns with committee members. Community service outreach programs allow the committee to inform school children, business leaders, educators and legislators about the important role women play in our Armed Forces. VA hospital visits allow women on the committee to interact and network with VA women program managers and get a first-hand look at the healthcare process. If you are interested in participating in any of these events or volunteering to help with an outreach program in your region, please call our main office at (614) 752-8941.