We have seen an outpouring of support from the Federal Government, The Veterans Administration (VA), community groups, local businesses, family members, friends, and other individuals who recognize and support the need for G.I. Josie to help female Veterans transition back to civilian life and heal in a positive, safe, and supportive environment. Here are some notable endorsements:
The White House
"Thank you for offering to join the First Lady in supporting and honoring our military families. I want you to know that your letter and contact information wiil be kept on file in our office should an opportunity to collaborate arise in the future. As you know, Mrs. Obama and Dr. Jill Biden launched Joining Forces to ensure our service members, veterans, and their families have the support they have earned. Through this initiative, they are calling on all sectors of society to address the challenges military families face and to expand opportunities for these remarkable men and women..."
The Veterans Administration
"VA recognizes that because of current laws and funding, VA cannot provide every service that the Veterans potentially needs ...organizations like Josie are critical in bridging the gap between VA provided benefits and the services Veterans need. The number of homeless woman Veterans has doubled from 2006-2010. Homelessness and lack of affordable housing for Woman Veterans is expected to rise as the percentage of woman in the military increases. Women make up 8% of the total Veteran population which is expected to increase substantially in the next decade."
Successful Thinkers Network
"Monterey Successful Thinker's Network is honored to have Laurabeth Messimer as a club member. We also embrace Laurabeth's passion for helping female veterans through her non-profit organization, G.I. Josie, so much so, that Monterey STN is happy to support her cause in any way possible and will continue to support G.I. Josie in the future. We find G.I. Josie to be an honorable organization and vital to the healing of ou.rfemale veterans, their children, and extended families."
Rotary Club of Monterey Pacific
"Monterey Pacific Rotary Club is honored to have Laurabeth Messimer as a club member. We also embrace Laurabeth' s passion for helping female veterans through her non-profit organization, G.I. Josie, so much so, that Monterey Pacific Rotary has donated to her cause and will continue to support G.I. Josie in the future. We find G.I. Josie to be an honorable organization and vital to the healing of our female veterans, their children, and extended families."