Women of Valor Memorial

Your support is crucial in making this national tribute a reality.

Our Mission

The Women of Valor Memorial, located in Strykersville, NY, will be the first standalone national memorial dedicated exclusively to women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States Armed Forces — honoring every woman, from every era and every branch, who gave her life in defense of our nation. Inspired by the legacy of Army Sergeant Cari Anne Gasiewicz of Western New York, the project is a joint endeavor between the Cari Anne Gasiewicz AMVETS Post #637 — to our knowledge, the first AMVETS post in the nation named in honor of a woman killed in action — and the American Legion Six Star Post #637. Sheldon-Java Veterans Association, Inc., the project’s nonprofit organization, is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity (EIN: 39-4661053).

Latest Update

 501(c)(3) Status Secured — Public Fundraising Now Underway

After months of foundational work, the Women of Valor Memorial has officially received its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the IRS — recognition that clears the way for the project to formally launch public fundraising toward Phase 1, the Memorial Park.

The determination is retroactive to June 11, 2025, which means every gift made on or after that date is fully tax-deductible.

This is the moment we’ve been working toward. A lot of people in Western New York have quietly believed in this project for a long time, and now we can ask them to stand with us in a real way. Every dollar from here on out builds the memorial these women deserve.

Lorne LeMieux, Board Director and Co-Lead, Marketing & Communications

Be Part of History

This is a unique opportunity to honor the brave women who have given their lives for our freedom and to support the veterans who continue to serve our country. By contributing to this project, you will help build a national memorial that will stand as a testament to sacrifice, service, and community.

Support from Congresswoman Claudia Tenney:

“The Women of Valor Memorial and Veterans Center is set to provide a dedicated space to commemorate the contributions and sacrifices of women veterans. Establishing this memorial and center will stand as a powerful tribute to the courage and dedication of women veterans, ensuring their legacy is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.”

Support from Assemblyman David J. DiPietro:

“One of the center’s goals is to offer a dedicated space to recognize the sacrifices and history of women veterans, including Cari Anne Gasiewicz, whom the center will honor. She was a brave and dedicated service member who lost her life while serving in Iraq. Her memory has inspired this project and will continue to for others as the center seeks to enshrine the legacies of other women veterans.”

Concept Designs

The new memorial will be a place of honor and remembrance, featuring a circular drive that leads to a beautifully landscaped memorial park with monuments at its heart. Visitors will be greeted by a covered drop-off entry, ensuring easy access to the site.

Get Involved

Every contribution brings us closer to honoring our brave service members. Sheldon-Java Veterans Association, Inc. is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity (EIN: 39-4661053). All donations are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law

Donate

Every contribution brings us closer to honoring our brave service members. Your donations are fully tax-deductible, allowing you to support a worthy cause while receiving a tax benefit.

Corporate Sponsorship

Partner with us as a corporate sponsor and demonstrate your company’s commitment to honoring veterans. Sponsorship opportunities include naming rights, event sponsorships, and more. Your company will also benefit from tax-deductible contributions.

Volunteer

Share your time and talents by volunteering for events, fundraising efforts, or helping with the construction and maintenance of the memorial and center.

Spread the Word

Help us raise awareness by sharing our mission with your friends, family, and social networks.