Women Veterans of New Mexico (WVNM) is honoring its 20‑year anniversary as a lifeline for female service members throughout the state. Founded in September 2006, the independent nonprofit now counts more than 450 members, most of whom live in the Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas.
Leadership rooted in military service
President Elizabeth Bryant, a former command sergeant major with 34 years of service, and co‑founder Sarah Breckinridge‑Sproat, a retired Army nurse of 30 years, say the organization is a natural extension of their military careers. “It really is about service to each other and with each other,” Breckinridge‑Sproat explained.
Addressing isolation and benefit challenges
WVNM’s leaders note that women veterans often confront isolation, difficulty navigating VA benefits, and a lack of public recognition for their contributions. Some also carry the burden of harassment or sexual assault experienced during their service, creating a need for trauma‑informed support.
The group’s quarterly meetings and social events provide a safe space for fellowship, allowing members to share experiences and rebuild the close bonds forged in uniform. A three‑woman volunteer Service Support Team fields requests for help, guiding veterans through VA health‑care enrollment, disability compensation, education benefits, and job placement.
Practical assistance that fills gaps
Beyond paperwork, WVNM steps in where other programs fall short. Volunteers have arranged temporary hotel stays, furnished apartments for women leaving homelessness, and supplied household essentials. The organization has also helped cover utility bills, mortgage payments, heating fuel and other expenses tied to re‑entering the civilian workforce.
“It’s hard to ask for help,” Breckinridge‑Sproat said, emphasizing the team’s focus on preserving each veteran’s independence and dignity.
Fundraising for a lasting legacy
WVNM relies on charitable donations to sustain its work. Over the past two years, the group averaged $16,800 in annual contributions. To mark the 20‑year milestone, the nonprofit launched a “20 for 20” campaign, aiming to raise $20,000 for a legacy fund. At the time of the interview, the organization was roughly one‑third of the way toward that goal.
President Bryant stressed that the group’s mission is to ensure every woman veteran feels her service is valued, regardless of rank or length of service. “We acknowledge everything that you have experienced, the good, the bad, the ugly,” she said. “But we’re here for you.”
Looking ahead
As WVNM looks to the future, its leaders remain committed to expanding outreach, strengthening partnerships with local service officers, and continuing to provide the practical and emotional support that women who have served deserve. The organization’s two‑decade legacy stands as a testament to the power of community‑driven service rooted in faith, family values, and a dedication to individual liberty.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
