Wellness, Arts, and the Military (WAM) supports the growth of artists and arts organizations who have arts and wellness programs for military connected communities. WAM began in 2017 as a Community Connections Project supported by the NEA Creative Forces Military Healing Arts Network. Through summits, convenings, and key partnerships, the WAM program has grown to include arts programming grants, training, funding, and outreach.

Wellness, Arts, and the Military Grants

Wellness, Arts, and the Military is accepting applications for two grant opportunities:

• The Self-directed Art Practice (SAP) grant supports U.S. military-connected individuals. SAP grant funds help you find your voice and pursue personal growth through the arts. Apply by January 31, 2023.
• The General Operating Support grant provides up to $75,000 to organizations that offer arts programs to military connected individuals and communities. Apply by February 20, 2023.

Click here to learn more.

Past WAM events

WAM Winter Convening | The WAM Winter Convening took place December 3, 2021. Topics included military culture and transitions, suicide awareness, networking, outreach, and grants. If you were unable to attend, you can watch the recording by clicking here, or by watching in the player below.

MusicWorks4Veterans (MW4V) Performance at the Tacoma Recovery Center and Café (TRC) |  In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, MW4V members gathered at the Tacoma Recovery Center and Café on May 19, 2022 to play music and share stories about mental health. TRC offered people mental health resources as well as food, clothing, and personal hygiene items. Thank you to Doug White, the Tacoma Recovery Center Veterans Program Manager, for coordinating this volunteer-based event.

Lacey Vet Con | A free event held on April 30, 2022, with comics, board games, and guest speakers for veterans and the military connected community, hosted by the Lacey Veterans Services Hub. Attendees brought comics to the event and shared their collections with others. Thank you to the Lacey Veteran Services Hub volunteers, guest speakers, and to all who attended.