Homeless Veterans Embrace Artistic Expression with Lockheed Martin

Homeless and formerly homeless veterans took up paint brushes and drawing pencils Friday, June 17, exploring new forms of creative expression. The event, held at Volunteers of America's Bill Daniels Veteran Services Center, was sponsored by Lockheed Martin and was designed to give veterans a creative outlet.

"For someone who has been through war and who has also come home and experienced homelessness, having a place to express one's self and the opportunity to be creative is so important," said Dianna Kunz, Volunteers of America Colorado President and CEO. "I applaud Lockheed Martin for recognizing this need in our veteran community and stepping up to serve."

Two professional veteran artists led the event, offering demonstrations, showcasing examples of their work and teaching new methods. A full range of art supplies was available for veterans to practice and create new pieces. Veterans learned about ways to use creative expression as therapy as well as how to develop a business model for selling their art.

Volunteers from Lockheed Martin helped serve food, distribute art supplies, and facilitate activities. This event was a part of a larger partnership Lockheed Martin established to serve and offer resources to veterans at Volunteers of America's Bill Daniels Veteran Services Center.

"Lockheed Martin has a longstanding commitment to support active-duty military and veterans nationwide. It is our way of giving back to those who have sacrificed so much." said Lt. Gen. (Ret) Mike Hamel, vice president Strategic Solutions for Lockheed Martin Space Systems Company and executive champion of Lockheed Martin's local Military and Veteran Employee Resource Group. "Our support of Volunteers of America Colorado's veteran programming is helping our employees engage in unique efforts that truly make a difference for local veterans. We are grateful that Lockheed Martin employee volunteers had the opportunity to participate in this meaningful event."

Veteran artwork is regularly on display and for sale at VFW Post 1, 841 Santa Fe Drive in Denver. Proceeds from the sales go directly to the artist who created the pieces.

To learn more about this and other veterans programs through Volunteers of America, visitwww.voacolorado.org/veterans.

Find out more about Lockheed Martin's commitment to communities atwww.lockheedmartin.com/community.