Written by UWS Family Services Advocate Virginia R. Barnes.

Ashley is the spouse of Jason Simmons, who is an Army veteran. They were introduced to each other by a friend while residing in Zirconia, NC. Ashley was born in Kingsport, TN but grew up in beautiful Hendersonville, NC. Ashley and Jason reside in the Upstate SC with their eleven-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Patience, three canines, and two felines.

When Ashley is home, you will most likely find her in the kitchen as she tries out a new recipe. Ashley loves to cook. Ashley’s talents do not end there. She is creatively crafty too with an emphasis on mosaics and painting. This veteran spouse has been a regular participant with our Family Services programs: Crafts for Freedom and Higher Ground Hikers. Ashley aspired for more.

Three months ago, Ashley started volunteering with Family Services with a focus on Higher Ground Hikers. She has been instrumental in planning and assisting with each monthly hike. She is dedicated to ensuring each hike runs smoothly and her fellow spouses end the hike relaxed and ready to conquer the world. After all, a little self-care goes a long way!

Thank you for all your hard work, commitment, and shared excitement, Ashley Simmons! It is a pleasure to have you aboard UWS Family Services as a participant and a volunteer! You are appreciated.

If you are a spouse, significant other, or caretaker of veteran, military, or first responder and/or a female veteran in need of some self-care and fresh air, we invite you to join Higher Ground Hikers. Please contact Virginia R. Barnes at vbarnes@upstatewarriorsolution.org or at 631-506-9669 for more information.

“I look forward to hearing from you!” – Virginia said.