Local competitions began on January 1, 2015, that will lead to the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival in October.  Nationwide, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities use the creative arts as one form of rehabilitative treatment to help Veterans recover from and cope with physical and emotional disabilities. Across the country each year, Veterans enrolled at VA health care facilities compete in local creative arts competition. The competition includes over 50 categories in the visual arts division and  over 100 categories in the performing arts pertaining to all aspects of music, dance, drama and creative writing. Through a national judging process, first, second and third place entries in each category are determined.

Most VA facilities hold their local competitions in February.  Veterans interested in participating in the competition should contact the local recreation therapy/creative arts therapy departments at the VA facility where they are enrolled as early as possible. If assistance is needed in identifying a VA staff person at a facility, please contact Amy Kimbler (320) 255-6486 or Elizabeth Mackey, National Director (320) 255-6351.  For specific division information, rules, and category descriptions please contact the recreation/creative arts therapy or voluntary service department at the local VA medical facility.

All required forms must be completed and postmarked to the National Chairpersons no later than March 27, 2015 in order to compete at the national level. Select winners will be invited to attend the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival this year in Durham, North Carolina, from October 12-18.  

The key purpose of the National Veterans Creative Arts competition and festival is to recognize veterans for their creative accomplishments and to educate and demonstrate to communities throughout the country the therapeutic benefits of the arts. The American Legion Auxiliary is a cosponsor of the event with the Department of Veterans Affairs.