RICHMOND HILL — Community members, veterans, and leaders gathered in Richmond Hill for the 2nd Annual Women of Valor Ignite Brunch, hosted by American Legion J.E. Lanier Post 27, bringing together women from across the region for a powerful morning of empowerment, connection, and inspiration.
The annual event focuses on uplifting women veterans and community leaders through meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and access to resources that support personal and professional growth.
This year’s brunch was made possible through the support of community partners Military Brands, Torch'd Burgers and Wings, and RG Tax and Booking LLC, whose sponsorship helped create a welcoming space for dialogue and inspiration.
The event also featured professional photography provided by Ayri Photography, capturing the energy and connections made throughout the gathering.
A special highlight of the brunch was the presentation of the 2026 Women of Valor Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact in the community.
The 2026 Women of Valor Award was presented to Lauren Woods, owner of Infusion Blendz Nutrition, in recognition of her outstanding leadership, service, and commitment to the Richmond Hill community.
The 2026 Women of Valor Team Award was presented to Beauties in Boots: Women Veterans Club for their continued service, leadership, and unwavering support for women veterans and one another.
According to post-event survey feedback, attendees overwhelmingly rated the event as exceptional. Participants praised the quality of speakers, the meaningful topics discussed, and the supportive environment created throughout the brunch. Nearly all respondents rated the venue, food, and program quality highly, and 100% of participants said they would recommend the event and plan to attend again in the future.
“The energy in the room was incredible,” said Sally Rejas, Post Commander of American Legion J.E. Lanier Post 27. “Women supporting women, sharing their journeys, and lifting each other up is exactly what this event was designed to do.”
One attendee shared in feedback that “the event touched every aspect of life—you leave inspired and encouraged to be the best version of yourself.” Others described the event as “fantastic,” “motivational,” and a “supportive environment where strong women could connect and learn from one another.”
Attendance for the event remained strong for its second year reflecting continued engagement from the local community and consistent support for the growing initiative.
Participants also shared suggestions for future discussions, highlighting the desire for deeper conversations on topics such as housing insecurity, food security, career transition after military service, women’s health care, financial literacy and investing, caregiving resources, family support, and networking opportunities.
The Women of Valor Ignite Brunch continues to serve as a platform for education, encouragement, and community building for women veterans and leaders throughout Coastal Georgia. With another successful year completed, organizers say they look forward to expanding the event’s reach and impact in the years ahead.
For more information about future events or community involvement opportunities with American Legion J.E. Lanier Post 27, visit their Facebook page.
