Programs

At CreatiVets, we believe in the power of the arts to help veterans heal, connect, and thrive. Our programs are designed to foster creativity as a means to process the unique challenges veterans face, promoting healing through self-expression, storytelling, and community building. We work with veterans from all branches of service, utilizing the arts and music, to inspire hope and resilience.

Whether veterans are looking to learn guitar, write, paint, sculpt, or compose, our programs and workshops are crafted to meet each individual’s needs. Taught by expert artists, musicians, and instructors, our sessions offer personalized support and guidance, empowering veterans to reclaim their narrative, build confidence, and find renewed purpose.

Program Highlights

Songwriting Program: This in-person program is hosted in both Nashville, TN and Los Angeles, CA. Over three days, veterans learn how to tell their stories through song. Working with experienced songwriters and producers, participants write and record original music that reflects their journeys, providing a powerful outlet for emotional expression.

Intro to Art Program: This in-person program teaches storytelling through various mediums and art forms. From painting to sculpture to woodworking and welding, these classes offer veterans hands-on art experience in supportive and inspiring settings like the studios of SAIC in Chicago, Belmont University in Nashville, and The Glassell School of Art in Houston. Over two to three weeks, participants find new ways to communicate their feelings, experiences, and aspirations through art.

Virtual Programs and Workshops: Veterans can explore our programs and personal storytelling through the arts and music from the convenience of their home with our virtual programs! We offer group or one-on-one virtual lessons and workshops in songwriting, guitar, piano, harmonica, and ukulele! We also host group visual arts programs in partnership with many amazing arts organizations across the United States. Interested in partnering with us to host a virtual art program? Contact us here!

Community Art Workshops: Hosted from our headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee, our community arts workshops bring veterans together, reinforcing connection, camaraderie, and mutual support. Together, participants work on art projects of all kinds. Some of these workshops are open to family, friends, and caregivers also! To see what we have coming up and sign up, check out our calendar here!

Astrophotography Program: This program gives veterans the opportunity to learn the technical and artistic aspects of photographing the night sky. Through guided sessions, veterans learn to capture stunning celestial images, from star trails to galaxies, using professional-grade equipment. The quiet, contemplative nature of astrophotography provides a grounding experience, allowing participants to connect deeply with nature, culture, and their own sense of wonder. This program is hosted in-person, twice a year, in beautiful spaces like McDonald Observatory in Fort Davis, Texas, Carbon County, Utah and numerous other dark sky sites across the country.

Mentor Program:  Graduates of our in-person programs have the opportunity to continue their creative journey with CreatiVets as mentors. Veterans who have demonstrated commitment, growth, and passion during their time in our programs may be invited to join our mentorship program, where they can support and guide new participants. As mentors, veterans can deepen their skills, share insights from their own experiences, and help foster a sense of community and belonging for others. This peer-mentor approach strengthens bonds within the CreatiVets community and ensures that each veteran receives support from someone who understands the unique challenges of their journey. This program is by invitation only.

Eligibility Requirements

• CreatiVets welcomes veterans who have served in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, including Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Coast Guard. 
• To qualify for our in-person Songwriting, Intro to Art Program, Astrophotography, and Mentor Program, applicants must be veterans who have served in a combat zone. Non-combat veterans are eligible for our virtual songwriting, music, and arts workshops, along with the community arts workshops! 
• All experience levels are welcome. No prior art or music experience is necessary.
• We encourage participants to be open to the healing potential of creative expression and to be ready to engage in group-based and individual activities.

Application Process

To apply for our programs, veterans are encouraged to complete our online application form, which includes questions about their service, interests, and goals for participation. Our team will review applications and reach out with additional details. You can find our application here. 

At CreatiVets, our mission is to honor and support veterans by providing a creative outlet for self-expression, growth, and recovery. We believe that every veteran has a unique story to tell, and we are here to help make that story heard.