Banning Vet-FAST helps veterans cope with combat trauma
BANNING - Suicide rates have skyrocketed, divorce among veterans as a result of serving multiple missions in Iraq and Afghanistan has escalated. Vietnam vets are still trying to cope with their war-time horrors, and post-traumatic stress disorder inhibits veterans from re-assimilating back into civilian life.
But there is help for veterans: Vet-FAST (Veterans Fine Art Studies and Training), a program designed to help war veterans cope with combat trauma through fine art studies and training.
The non-profit organization provides an expressive and creative outlet for veterans. Veterans learn to use their right-brain (creative) functions to create works of art that helps them develop more self-confidence and a positive self image.
The program offers:
1. Painting.
2. Sculpting with stone and metal.
3. Mineral mining.
4. Visual arts - documentary film making.
5. Knife making and bladesmithing.
"I haven't forgotten the combat, nor have I been able to keep the memories out of my day-to-day life," said Marty Contreras, who served in the Vietnam War from 1966-'67 with the Army. "But now I deal with them in a positive manner because of Vet-FAST. Don't let our veterans fend for themselves with the trauma of war. If you want to know how severely war changes a young soldier, don't ask the soldier, ask his mother."
For more information call (951) 642-1664.
Vet-FAST
137 San Gorgonio Ave.
Banning, CA 92220
About this blog
Yucaipa Photos
| Get Yucaipa Now News Have news alerts sent straight to your email, subscribe here: |
Leave a comment