Creative Arts for Vets

Improving well-being for U.S. veterans and service members

Creative Arts for Vets (CAV) was created to support veterans, service members, and military‑connected individuals of all ages and abilities through the arts and other creative, wellness‑focused practices.

CAV partnered closely with veterans, military communities, local organizations, and the Indiana Department of Veteran Affairs to design experiences tailored to the needs and interests of specific communities. All activities were offered at no cost, and the program traveled throughout Indiana and beyond to make participation accessible.

Although the program has concluded and no longer offers activities or services, this record reflects its mission, impact, and commitment to those it served.

The CAV Book

A Guidebook for Therapeutic Artmaking for Veterans, Those Currently Serving, and Military-Connected Populations

The CAV Book is designed to support veterans and military-connected individuals through arts-based exercises grounded in social work and art therapy practices, veteran narratives, and wellness resources, offering a practical pathway to improved well-being.

A digital edition of the CAV Book is available on ScholarWorks, making it accessible to a wider community. While CAV previously provided printed books and accompanying art supplies, funding for physical materials is no longer available. The digital version continues the mission by offering guidance for therapeutic artmaking at home, helping users build healthy self-regulation habits and engage creatively in ways that foster resilience.

This resource encourages veterans to explore art as a tool for reflection, stress reduction, and personal growth, supporting the development of skills that can help navigate the unique challenges of military and post-military life.

Download The CAV Book