Mission Belonging

CBAW’s art and poetry workshops have reached tens of thousands of service members, veterans, military family members, caregivers, and healthcare workers. We encourage the use of arts as a tool for narration, self-care and socialization for those struggling with emotional and physical injuries caused by trauma.

“You are not going through these things alone,” explains US Army combat veteran and alu

mni of the workshop Vainuupo Avegalio. “When you find out other people are going through similar things, it kind of feels a little bit easier.”

Testimonials

“What I get from these workshops is hope, inspiration, and a feeling of not being alone in my circumstances.” Army Veteran Anne Barlieb

“Every week this workshop saves me, gives me space to express myself, and provides supportive people to hear my voice. I'm so grateful for CBAW.” Virtual Participant

“These workshops are often the highlight of my week. The sense of community and support is wonderful and so needed during these stressful and intense times.” Virtual Participant


Who We Are

Community Building Art Works is a non-profit organization that helps the ordinary people we ask to be heroes tell their stories through workshops led by professional artists. Our programs reach thousands of people annually, and were featured in the 2018 award-winning HBO Documentary We Are Not Done Yet. Our diverse board of directors includes veterans and military family members and professionals in the fields of adaptive sports, arts in health. What We Do

Creative workshops with specific populations (ie veterans, military spouses/caregivers, healthcare workers) offered in partnership with organizations
Free and donation-based drop-in community workshops open to all. Sponsored “Amplified” workshops tailored to help certain populations tell their stories through performances that create community dialog

Why We Do What We Do

The 18 million veterans in the United States are at increased risk of post traumatic stress, depression, and social isolation. Loneliness and social isolation have been linked to suicidality, depression, obesity, and substance misuse, and can be as damaging to health as smoking 15 ci******es a day. In 2019, the American Heart Association deemed mental illness a “workforce crisis” in the United States, a situation exacerbated by the increased social isolation required to curb the spread of COVID-19


How We Facilitate

Workshops introduce the principles of art as tools for self-expression and communication and foster connection and a sense of belonging in a safe, compassionate environment. CBAW’s prestigious faculty include award-winning writers, artists, and musicians who have lectured and taught at institutions from Columbia University to Stanford. CBAW’s methodology and programs have been tested and refined over ten years and have been demonstrated to be an effective creative arts intervention. They have been designed in partnership with military clinical personnel, community organizations, and veterans service organizations (VSOs)


Measurable Outcomes

“Research shows that if people improve their feelings of belonging, trust, and security, they are likely to be healthier. When people feel a greater connection to their community, they are more inclined to take action to improve their own health and the health of others.” (RWJF)
Engaging in creative pursuits lowers stress and anxiety and increases productivity and problem solving. Top benefits reported by participants:
Social Connection (85% of participants)
Creative Outlet (98% of participants)
Sense of Community (93% of participants)
Improved Mood (91% of participants)