Veterans Find Healing and Connection Through the Arts, Taking the Stage to Share Their Stories
Dr. Phillips Center and Orlando VA Healthcare System partnership inspires healing and confidence
Orlando, FL— On Wednesday October 22, Veterans took the stage at the Orlando VA Medical Center to share music, poetry and performances created during a series of Arts & Wellness workshops—a partnership between Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts and the Orlando VA Healthcare System. The event celebrated the close of the fall session of the Veterans’ Arts & Wellness programming, led by Dr. Phillips Center.
Over eight weeks, Veterans and caregivers collaborated with the art center’s teaching artists, including local musicians, poets and theater professionals to explore the power of creative expression and community. What began as a series of sessions soon grew into a shared movement, so impactful that the Veterans requested to perform in a culminating performance at the Orlando VA Medical Center in Lake Nona, hoping to uplift their community and inspire more of their peers to join the program.
“Watching these veterans find joy through the program reminds us that the arts are about healing, connection and courage,” said Kathy Ramsberger, president and CEO of Dr. Phillips Center. “This is exactly why we created this Arts & Wellness initiative. As we look ahead, our goal is to reach 20 communities where wellness is the priority and art is the catalyst.”
Launched in 2024, Dr. Phillips Center’s Arts & Wellness initiative in partnership with the Orlando VA Healthcare System introduced a drum circle, offering a supportive space for Veterans and caregivers to explore creativity, connection and healing. The program has since expanded to include choir, spoken word and improv theater. The free sessions, offered at both Dr. Phillips Center and the Orlando VA Medical Center, provide opportunities for Veterans to connect through the arts in a welcoming environment.
“Our partnership with Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts has opened powerful new avenues for healing and self-expression among the Veterans and caregivers we serve,” said Timothy J. Cooke, Director and CEO, Orlando VA Healthcare System. “Through these creative arts classes, participants are finding new ways to connect, build confidence and strengthen their overall well-being. This collaboration truly embodies our commitment to whole health- honoring the physical, emotional and creative spirit of Veterans.”
Generous support for the program is provided by Hatalom Corporation, Pabst Steinmetz Foundation, VyStar Foundation and Winifred Johnson Clive Foundation.
Additional sessions will continue in the spring, to learn more about Arts & Wellness programming, please email artsandwellness@drphillipscenter.org