Self-Care Sunday: Celebrating International Women's Day with Local Active Duty Women

As a woman in the military during a pandemic, active duty women face unique stressors and challenges. The USO Hampton Roads and Central Virginia (USOHRCV) appreciates the active duty women who protect our freedoms, but recognize the importance of self-care, wellness and mental health awareness. In honor of International Women’s Day, USOHRCV launched their first Self-Care Giveaway and virtual Self-Care Sunday exclusively for active duty women.

150 active duty women based in the Hampton Roads and Central Virginia area enjoyed self-care packages filled with goodies like special chocolates, lotions, lip scrubs, bath bomb ingredients, and more in order to supplement their self-care journey at home.

These packages were distributed at our USO Fort Lee, Fort Eustis, and Langley AFB comfort centers and the USO Outdoor Adventure Team studio either in a drive-thru fashion, or picking up with masks required in order to ensure low contact.

Following the distributions, active duty women registered for Self-Care Sunday, a virtual event that connected active duty women to their local military community. The event included a “Do It Yourself” session, giveaways, and special guest, Kayla Arevisto of Trails of Purpose. Participants got a chance to be heard as they connected over their own challenges while serving. Arevisto led a guided meditation session, along with a presentation about healthy ways to cope with the stressors of serving.

Participants left the virtual event feeling appreciated, supported, and wanting more!

“Please make this a regular thing. I would like to attend this again on a regular basis!” said one participant.

Active duty women who missed Self-Care Sunday are encouraged to check the event out on our Youtube channel!

This would not be possible without the generosity of local supporters. Local community partners and businesses are encouraged to support future Self-Care giveaways for our military. Contact kceliceo@uso.org for more information.