MEET THE BOARD OF BUDDYWATCH

---

Josephine (Jo) Coleman-Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who founded BuddyWatch, Inc. in July 2017. Jo graduated from the University of Alabama in 1997. She has worked for more than 20 years in the social services and mental health fields, mostly with Active Duty Solders, Veterans and their family members. She has long felt a desire to address the needs of homeless Veterans firsthand. She was a part of a Military family for more than 27 years.  She has four children, two of which deployed to Iraq in 2003 and 2005.  Like many mothers, she said farewell to her children and welcomed home world weary adults.   She knows what combat does to Soldiers from the perspective of a family member as well as professionally.   Jo has been supportive of legislation that addresses nature of discharge and the need for mental health and medical care.  She knows the consequences of hopelessness and supports Suicide Prevention Programs.  She strives to highlight the contributions made by the primary Caregivers (typically husbands, wives and parents) to our nations Wounded Warriors.  One cannot place a price tag on the value of their unending patience and support.  Military Sexual Trauma leaves wounds that often go unspoken.  She supports individuals who were recipients of this unwelcomed treatment and encourages their voices to be heard.  Veteran’s children also need to be recognized for their sacrifices, as well.  Frequent moves; fear for the safety of their loved one; and the fluid nature of their home have left many in a confusing place between childhood and adulthood.  Jo ultimately believes that these concerns can be successfully addressed, if we band together with like mind and single focus.

Homelessness is a consequence of circumstances, nobody chooses it.