The VBG Foundation was established in 2024 to support programs and initiatives that enhance the well-being of America’s military Veterans, with a unique focus on women Veterans and military families.
Recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt, private foundation under section 501(c)(3), the VBG Foundation is committed to enriching the lives of our nation’s women Veterans and Veteran families.
We are a purpose-driven organization.
Our purpose at the VBG Foundation is to enable a future wherein women Veterans and Veteran families experience unwavering support and opportunity, allowing them to realize their full potential in civilian life.
Our mission is to empower our nation’s military Veterans, particularly women Veterans and Veteran families, so they can thrive in civilian life.
The VBG Foundation helps enable vital mental health resources, foster entrepreneurship opportunities for women Veterans and facilitate access to employment, education and community integration initiatives for Veteran families.
We believe in empowering women Veterans and Veteran families to reach their full potential in civilian life by providing them with the necessary resources and support.
We value the sense of community and camaraderie among Veterans and their Veteran families, and we work to create a supportive network where they can connect, share experiences and support one another.
We are committed to inclusivity and ensuring that all Veterans and Veteran families, regardless of background or circumstances, have equal access to our nation’s available programs and services.
We operate with integrity, transparency and accountability in all our endeavors, ensuring that the trust placed in us by donors, partners and beneficiaries is upheld.
We approach our work with empathy and understanding, recognizing the unique challenges and experiences faced by Veterans and their families, and strive to empower them with compassion and support.
We believe in the power of collaboration and actively seek partnerships with government agencies, other nonprofit organizations, businesses and other like-minded stakeholders to maximize our impact and reach.
Lauren Smith serves as the executive director of the Veteran Benefits Guide Foundation and has served in that founding role since 2024. She is also a Co-founder of the business entity Veteran Benefits Guide.
Before leaving the company to become executive director of the VBG Foundation, Lauren served as the chief culture officer for VBG. She is a proud member of a Veteran family.
Prior to becoming the Chief Culture Officer and Chief Operations Officer at VBG, Lauren was the company’s chief operating officer for eight years. In her various roles, Lauren oversaw all strategies related to employee performance; developed and implemented strategy for personnel management; and led the company’s efforts to create a culture that supports VBG’s purpose, mission and values.
Before starting VBG with her husband, Josh, in 2015, Lauren held several project management and engineering positions in the construction industry.
Lauren holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and management from Excelsior University. Outside of VBG, Lauren enjoys spending time with her husband, Josh, and their three daughters. She also loves to travel, cook and read.
America's Veterans have been selfless for the greater good of our country. It's our responsibility to stand by them once their service has ended so that they can embark on meaningful and fulfilling journeys in civilian life. When we empower and uplift our Veterans, their families thrive, our communities flourish and the economy benefits.
We strive to empower Veterans in everything we do. We seek opportunities to partner with innovative and results-oriented organizations dedicated to making tangible differences in the lives of our military Veterans. Our unique focus is on enhancing access to resources for women Veterans and Veteran families. You can read more about these focus areas below.
Often facing unique challenges and experiences upon return to civilian life, women Veterans are the fastest-growing segment in the Veteran population. We believe women Veterans deserve opportunities to prioritize mental health, advance their careers and pursue the possible.
Reducing the barriers to appropriate mental health services tailored specifically for women can significantly enhance a woman Veteran’s overall quality of life. The Foundation supports initiatives that provide access and equitable mental health programs for women Veterans, enabling their overall well-being and transition to civilian life.
Meaningful employment plays a critical role in empowering women Veterans to thrive in all aspects of their lives. The Foundation supports workforce initiatives that assist in the transition from military to civilian life and provides training and development opportunities for career advancement.
We believe military families make profound sacrifices. As valued and integral members of our communities, Veteran Families deserve opportunities that allow them to pursue their career aspirations; access resources for continuous learning, development and education; and engage in activities that facilitate their seamless integration into the community, ensuring they are appreciated, embraced and celebrated for all that they contribute to our society.
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