Village for Vets and Piece by Piece LA host Veteran’s Art Event
On August 25, 2023, a group of Veterans gathered to participate in an art therapy event hosted by Village for Vets and Piece by Piece LA. Piece by Piece believes that through free art workshops and a safe, welcoming community, individuals who have experienced economic hardship are provided with the tools to heal, build community and master skills to earn income. Their mission is to empower residents who have experienced homelessness or economic insecurity by providing free mosaic art workshops enabling them to build confidence, earn supplementary income, promote wellness and an improved quality of life.
“A collaboration between our two organizations just made perfect sense,” said Cathy Valentino, Director of Administration & Volunteer Services. “Art therapy benefits our Veterans in so many ways and teaches them new skills.”
Art therapy can offer a profound and transformative means of support for Veterans facing the unique challenges of post-military life. Through creative expression, Veterans can find an outlet to communicate complex emotions and traumatic experiences that may be difficult to put into words. Art therapy provides a safe and non-judgmental space for them to process their thoughts, manage symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and explore their identities beyond military service. It fosters a sense of empowerment, helping Veterans regain control over their lives, rebuild self-esteem, and rediscover their strengths. Moreover, art therapy encourages social engagement and connection, reducing feelings of isolation that some Veterans experience. In sum, art therapy is a powerful tool in the journey to healing and recovery, offering veterans a means to cope with their challenges, flourish, and reintegrate into civilian life with renewed purpose and hope.
