"This was an incredible opportunity to bring our community of Children’s employees together and honor the service of our veterans."

To celebrate the service of the more than 450 veterans, active duty and reserve members at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the Children’s Diversity and Inclusion team and Veterans and Allies Leading Organizational Results (VALOR)—an Employee Resource Group (ERG) in our Children’s Inclusion Network—hosted employees and their families at Atlanta United’s Military and Veteran Appreciation Night in July.

Together, they showed support of those serving our country and cheered on our hometown soccer team at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. As a special offering, our military veterans and active-duty Children’s employees were able to participate in a fun, on-field experience before the match started.

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The voluntary and employee-led VALOR ERG brings together military veterans, active duty, military family members and allies to foster connection, build community and support one another. Jessica Seagraves, Manager, Employee Wellness, and Co-Chair of VALOR, says she was thrilled with the turnout for the ERG’s event.

“This was an incredible opportunity to bring our community of Children's employees together and honor the service of our veterans,” Jessica said.

Hayden Brewer, Security Supervisor and member of VALOR, got the chance to participate in the on-field experience.

“It was an awesome opportunity to go onto the field and represent VALOR and Children’s,” Hayden said. “It meant a lot to me and my family that we got to meet with other vets who are committed to the values of VALOR and to Children’s putting People First.”

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Laura Starling, Clinical Nurse at Arthur M. Blank Hospital, who also took part in the on-field activities before the match, echoes Hayden’s sentiment—emphasizing the importance of finding community and belonging.

“My fellow veterans and I had the privilege of carrying the circle banner onto the field for the game,” Laura said. “Events like these provide a meaningful opportunity for camaraderie and recognition, reinforcing the sense of community and appreciation for our service.” 

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