Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN) is a dedicated advocacy organization committed to supporting service women and women veterans. SWAN focuses on amplifying the voices of service women and women veterans to improve the overall well-being of all women in the military. While women service members and veterans have benefited from innumerable support programs, the majority of them are still designed, by default, to meet the needs of men. Emphasizing that distinction, SWAN’s mission is to advocate for, support, and connect military and veteran women.
SWAN drives policy change through legislative advocacy. Some key initiatives they have advocated for include the Deborah Sampson Act, the I Am Vanessa Guillen Act, and the PACT Act.
In addition to advocacy, SWAN provides support to women veterans through case management and community-building events. The organization fosters a supportive community, offering volunteer opportunities and resources to help women veterans navigate civilian life successfully. SWAN’s efforts are not just about immediate support but also about creating lasting change in the lives of service women and veterans.
Elisa Cardnell, a U.S. Navy veteran, serves as SWAN’s President and CEO. Transitioning from military service of five years of active duty and six years in the Navy Reserves, Elisa joined SWAN in 2021 as the Director of Operations, becoming CEO in July 2023.
Under Elisa’s leadership, SWAN continues to empower and uplift service women and veterans, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met. Looking ahead, SWAN aims to expand its impact, enhance programming for members, and deepen collaborations, creating a positive ripple effect for the military community nationwide. SWAN’s commitment to service women and veterans remains steadfast, driving meaningful change and fostering a supportive environment for all its members. SWAN places a strong emphasis on community connection, offering numerous opportunities for service women and veterans to engage, network, and support one another.
Through various events, a 24/7 emergency assistance hotline, and online platforms, SWAN ensures that its members are always connected to a robust support system. This sense of community not only aids in their personal and professional development but also strengthens the overall fabric of the veteran community, making it more resilient and united.
If you would like to partner with or donate to SWAN, please email president@servicewomen.org or visit servicewomensactionnetwork.org/donate.
