Wounded Veterans Move towards Recovery with Brush in Hand

CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE, N.J., Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Art legend Bob Ross was not present, but that did not stop wounded veterans and their guests from learning how to paint structures, landscapes, and mountains while using the creative process to heal. The event was hosted by Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) as part of the Alumni program and included time for couples to learn about free WWP programs and services in a relaxing atmosphere among other wounded veterans.

The WWP Alumni program is one of 20 life-saving programs and services offered free of charge to wounded service members, their caregivers, and families. Many wounded veterans face similar challenges adjusting to their injuries and civilian life. The WWP Alumni program creates support through shared experiences and brings injured veterans together to build camaraderie.

This was WWP Alumnus Jeffrey Bennett's first time attending a WWP event. "My favorite part of the evening was when everyone started painting their own scenes and laughing about their work. I told my wife I found my new family," he said. "The couples painting event was awesome, and I look forward to doing it again."

Art opens up a new form of communication and self-reflection that is beneficial when coping with internal conflicts and difficulties. By bonding through artistic events like this, wounded veterans learn they are not alone.

While the small group enjoyed creativity, snacks, and time together, WWP staff were able to speak more in depth on the programs and services that would not only aid the wounded veterans' recovery but also provide an overall benefit for couples and families.

"I learned about financial and legal programs my wife and I could use, because we are having difficulty receiving our benefits. WWP said they will sit down with my wife and me to explain in detail and get us back on our feet," Jeff said. "I found my new family. I thought no one cared anymore, and I was fighting for my benefits alone. I have to say Wounded Warrior Project reassured me there is light at the end of the tunnel."

A WWP senior benefits liaison attended the event to discuss WWP's Benefits Service program which helps injured veterans, family members, and caregivers navigate the complexities of the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). WWP's Benefits Service team works closely with both agencies and walks Alumni, family members, and caregivers through every step of the process to ensure claims are filed and correctly processed the first time. In January 2016 alone, WWP assisted 2,358 Alumni with obtaining their benefits.

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors. WWP's purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. To get involved and learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.

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SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project