SONGWRITINGWITH:SOLDIERS
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Mission Statement
Mission We transform lives by using collaborative songwriting to expand creativity, connections, and strengths. History The first retreat was held in 2012 near Fort Hood, Texas with eight veterans. The bonding, the songs, the impact were so powerful that there was no turning back. Since then, retreats have been held across the U.S. with hundreds of veterans and military families connecting, sharing their experiences and writing songs with professional songwriters. Their songs have been recorded and shared through thousands of downloads from our site, reaching and connecting more veterans and raising civilian awareness of the challenges the military community faces.
About This Cause
SongwritingWith:Soldiers (SW:S) operates from a simple principle: we pair veterans with professional songwriters to craft songs about combat and the transition home. Through a unique process of collaborative songwriting, veterans build trust, open up about their experiences—often for the first time—and connect with others. "I sat down with a stranger and shared some of the worst things I’ve ever been through. Now I have a new friend and a beautiful song that I can share" (SW:S Participant). When veterans hear their newly written songs performed, they realize they are not alone: “I thought I was the only one who felt this way.” Participants are registered with ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers) as co-writers of their songs. The program’s Creative Compositions workshops in photography, journaling, and more (many taught by veterans), build confidence and community. Relaxation sessions (meditation, yoga) facilitate stress release. A “Strengths Spotting” workshop at the conclusion of retreats prompts everyone present—veterans, staff, songwriters—to identify each other’s strengths. “Many people said they saw ‘leadership’ in my song. I feel like I’ve found my voice again,” said one participant. After returning home, participants receive photograph/lyric books, CDs and DVDs of song performances. These precious items preserve positive memories, instill pride, and serve as stepping-stones for reconnecting. “Now, with my song, my family can finally know what I haven’t been able to tell them” (SW:S participant). Unlike many veterans programs, we also support post-retreat growth is sustained through conference calls, a private SW:S online forum, quarterly virtual groups, and opportunities to return as peer/staff support. SW:S songs are shared across the nation through downloads, concerts, and social media to support more veterans, raise awareness, and bridge the military/civilian divide. We hear from service members overseas who discover us online and express their gratitude for songs that “tell the truth.” The positive impact of the program ripples outward.