Help Heal Veterans Hosts Community Event Celebrating Art and Healing

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Open house highlights how creativity supports veterans’ recovery

WINCHESTER, Calif., November 7, 2025 — Help Heal Veterans (Heal Vets) welcomed veterans, families, and community members to its Winchester headquarters for Creativity Heals: Veterans Day Open House, an event focused on the healing power of art and creativity.

The event featured the unveiling of “The Healing Journey,” a new art installation depicting a service member’s path from duty and struggle to recovery. Guests toured Heal Vets’ craft kit manufacturing facilities, participated in craft workshops, and enjoyed live music from the American Patriot Music Project.

“As we honor those who have served in our armed forces this Veterans Day, we want to raise awareness of how creativity can heal the visible and invisible wounds of war,” said Capt. Joe McClain, USN (Ret.), CEO of Help Heal Veterans. “We welcomed community members to experience firsthand how Creativity Heals through craft therapy, as we celebrate both the healing power of art and the community that stands behind our veterans.”

Veterans attending the event shared how craft therapy supports their recovery and mental well-being. “I suffer from PTSD and isolation. These craft kits help me keep my mind off the demons inside, they keep my mind occupied,” said Yvonne Wilson, USAF (Ret.).

Representatives from local veteran service organizations, including Thundar & Lightning & Peace, Semper Utilis, American Patriot Music Project, The Vet Center, American Legion, and Wellness for Veterans; NAMTA (the International Art Materials Association); and sponsors including Southwest Airlines and Starbucks also participated, offering prizes and sharing ways to support veterans.

Founded during the Vietnam War, Help Heal Veterans has provided more than 31 million free craft therapy kits to veterans and active-duty service members nationwide, helping them heal from traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other service-related injuries.

For more information, visit HealVets.org.