In 2007, Marine Corps Veteran Dan VanBuskirk began taking guitar lessons. He became friends with his instructor, Patrick Nettesheim, and they both realized that learning to play the guitar created a much-needed outlet for VanBuskirk. Furthermore, the lessons themselves provided opportunities for the positive interaction both men needed. Together they established Guitars 4 Vets (G4V) which operates in over 110 VA chapters across 40 states, today.
Music – both playing it and listening to it – has been proven to decrease anxiety, increase self-esteem, and reduce PTSD symptoms. A recent study of Guitars 4 Vets students showed a 21% improvement in PTSD symptoms and a 27% decrease in related depression symptoms after participants completed the 10-week program.
G4V utilizes music as a means of improving communication, coordination, and interpersonal skills. The G4V four-way path provides the foundation for the 10-week instruction period. This path uses four guiding principles to help Veterans heal: patience, acceptance, gratitude, and empathy.
Weekly one-on-one lessons are led by volunteer instructors and allow students to learn at their own pace. Monthly group sessions provide social interaction and facilitate camaraderie. Upon graduation, Veterans receive a free acoustic guitar and accessory kit. Every month thereafter brings additional groups sessions for graduates to continue practicing and provide a community to which Vets can connect.
Enrollment in Guitars for Veterans requires a referral from a case worker or social worker to a VA chapter that offers the program. Luckily, a cyber chapter is now available, making G4V accessible to all Veterans, regardless of their location. All cyber participants must have access to a guitar for lessons as well as a tablet or computer with camera and microphone.
To learn more, visit www.guitars4vets.org.
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