U.S. Veterans Arts Program Receives $7,500 Grant from Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes

Chicago, IL, June 24, 2013 --(PR.com)-- The Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes (Coalition), a leading not-for-profit organization dedicated to rebuilding the lives of severely wounded veterans of the War on Terror, today awarded a $7,500 grant to the United States Veterans Arts Program.

Founded by renowned musician and Vietnam veteran Kimo Williams in 1999, USVAP is dedicated to increasing the representation of veterans in the arts community by providing “artistic tools” – such as musical instruments, painting supplies, art scholarships, cameras, computers, etc – and to bringing visibility to the power of art and its cathartic impact on veterans that have sacrificed so much for their country.

“The first time I went to Vietnam, I brought my M-16. The next time, I brought my guitar. I liked the second trip much better than the first,” said Williams. “USVAP was created so that other veterans can experience a similar ‘second journey.’ I can’t thank the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes enough for their generous support of our cutting-edge artistic programs.”

The Coalition’s grant will provide art resources to VA recreation therapy programs for veterans suffering from PTSD and other disabilities. USVAP will also implement art programs designed to improve the morale and welfare of severely wounded veterans of the War on Terror.

“I’ve known Kimo since his days playing with Gary Sinise in the Lt. Dan Band at our Road to Recovery Conference,” said David Walker, President & CEO of the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes. “I’ve since heard wonderful things about USVAP and the innovative ways they are using art to improve the lives of the combat wounded. We are proud to do our part to bring their services to many more veterans.”

The Kimo Williams Band has also agreed to perform at the Coalition’s signature annual event, the 2013 Road to Recovery Conference & Tribute, scheduled for December 9-12 at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando. The Conference is a four-day, all-expenses-paid educational and motivational event for wounded veterans and their families designed to prepare them for the challenges that lie ahead.

About the Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes
The Coalition to Salute America’s Heroes, based in Leesburg, VA, has provided an invaluable lifeline to thousands of America’s wounded veterans since its establishment in 2004. The Coalition is distinguished from other veteran-focused organizations by its direct financial assistance to America’s wounded heroes. Its Emergency Financial Aid program has stopped foreclosure proceedings on veterans’ homes and kept their vehicles from being repossessed. The organization regularly provides gift checks to cover meals, medical and utility bills, clothing, car repairs and even baby diapers.

For more information on the Coalition, and to learn how you can support its mission, visit www.saluteheroes.org.

About the US Veterans Arts Program
The United States Veterans Arts Program (USVAP) is a Chicago-based non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to improving the health of the military and veteran population suffering from physical disabilities, PTSD and/or other mental health needs. USVAP believes that art can address many of these issues. For this reason, USVAP provides "Artistic Tools" (musical instruments, paints, photography equipment and other art supplies) to veterans and veterans medical facilities. We also provide employment opportunities and resume/portfolio building to veterans actively involved in music performance and production. For more information, visit www.usvap.org.