LA County Departments of Military & Veterans Affairs and Mental Health, along with the LA Sparks, host day of Inspiration, Resources & Kick-off Campaign for Female Veterans and Their Families

LOS ANGELES, CA –On Friday, March 22nd, the L.A. County Department of Military & Veterans Affairs (MVA) will host a day of education, awareness and resources for military women, veterans and their families, and announce a historic partnership with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH) and WNBA team the L.A. Sparks.

The year-long Spark the True You campaign will focus on women in active duty, women veterans and their families in an effort to normalize the experience of mental illness and health issues and break through barriers preventing them from achieving their dreams.

Summit registration begins at 8:30 AM, morning program promptly at 9:30 AM, and will include invocation, music, food and a variety of distinguished speakers, including Sparks Head Coach Derek Fisher, Guard Karlie Samuelson and Sparks President Danita Johnson.

A special Women-in-Leadership panel will be held to discuss barriers around transition from military to civilian life. A Procovery Mixer, meditation, massage, Reiki, make-overs and a pop-up clothing shop will be featured during the afternoon. All women veterans and veteran supporters are welcome.

WHAT: 2019 Women Veterans Summit and “Spark the True You” campaign kick-off

WHO:

Ruth A. Wong, Brigadier General, USAF (ret), Director, L.A. County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs

Jonathan Sherin, M.D., Ph.D., DMH Director

Derek Fisher, Sparks Head Coach

Karlie Samuelson, Sparks Guard

Danita Johnson, Sparks President and COO

Patrice McElroy, Executive Officer, Talent Manager, Los Angeles Metro

Barbara Autin, Director of Career Placement, Veterans of Media and Entertainment

Kathleen Crowley, LCSW, Procovery CEO, Author

WHEN: Friday, March 22, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

WHERE: Bob Hope Patriotic Hall, 1816 S. Figueroa Street

PARK: Free valet parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis

PRESS: VIP Availability 10:30-11:30 AM, Derek Fisher 11-11:30 AM. Press park in lot.

A wide variety of resources will be provided, including:

Assistance with veteran benefits
Housing
Employment
Mental health and medical services
Legal aid
Approximately thirty-five vendors will provide additional resources.