The Federal Way Veterans Center is having its annual barbecue from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. July 12 to honor female military veterans.

Pete Smith, outreach and education coordinator for the center, said this year’s event will also honor the 40th anniversary of Vet Centers around the country. The event will take place in the parking lot directly outside of the center 32020 32nd Ave. S. in Federal Way. It is free and open to the public, with different organizations promoting tables.

There will be two volunteer speakers at the event: a retired full bird colonel and Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell.

Smith said these events were brought about after the center wanted to get more in-the-eye of the public.

“It’s surprising how many people don’t know about us,” he said.

Smith said they also want the public, and veterans in particular, to know the center doesn’t just provide counseling services. The center has multiple resources available for veterans such as medical insurance assistance, but Smith said they also help connect veterans to resources like rental assistance programs and even jobs.

To learn more, call 253-838-3090.