ART CLASSES
Experience a positive alternative therapy that promotes mental health and healing. Participants will explore the creative process of making art as a form of expression. With no expectations and no artistic skill needed, the time we spend together has a primary focus – you.
Classes are free and art supplies are provided at no cost to you.
If you are interested and want to learn more or want to become a participant, email us for class availability.
Need Help?
Dial 988
No matter what problems you’re dealing with, whether or not you’re thinking about suicide, if you need someone to lean on for emotional support, call the Lifeline.
24/7, Free and Confidential Support
988LifeLine.org
ARTS SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded annually, two deserving art students enrolled at St. Leo University or Ringling College of Art and Design receive a scholarship to help them with their coursework costs.
Learn more about the scholarship and how to apply.
Want to Help?
Join the Cause
Become a mentor, educator, or supporter with the VACTB. Come share your time, skills, experiences, and knowledge and help us build a support network and sustainable community.
Learn more about how you can help.
Why Art Matters
Alternative therapies through art provide a holistic, non-medicinal means for mental health and healing. As part of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Recreation Therapy Service, art therapy has shown many benefits such as an increased sense of self-esteem and overall physical and mental health.
According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs –
“Art Therapy is a powerful method of expression. It is one way that many veterans and families are finding that may offer great benefit in dealing with challenges and many times, has the possibility of inspiring joy.”
Learn About the Benefits of Art Therapy
Verywell Mind – What Is Art Therapy?
US Department of Veterans Affairs – Creative Arts Therapy - Promoting Health and Community for Veterans
National Library of Medicine – Art Therapy: A Complementary Treatment for Mental Disorders
"This class helped me stay focused and realize that I do not have to perfect to enjoy art. This will help me in my recovery"
Services and Resources
Florida Dept of Veteran’s Affairs
A premier point of entry for Florida veterans to access earned services, benefits and support.
211 Tampa Bay Cares, Inc.
Connect to local services to help with benefits, health and wellness, finances, child care, housing, and more.
Bay Area Legal Services
Helping veterans and their family members in the Tampa Bay area and across the state of Florida with legal issues
First Responder Hope Line
Access for our community’s first responders to a lifeline of support, allowing you to speak confidentially with trained specialists anytime.
Crisis Center of Tampa Bay
Here for all who are struggling with a variety of crisis situations including sexual assault or abuse, domestic violence, financial distress, substance abuse, medical emergency, suicidal thoughts, and other emotional or situational distress.
Veterans Counseling Veterans, Inc.
Our mission is to prevent Veteran suicides by improving their mental wellness using our Model of Teaching, Engagement, Advocacy, Mentoring and Service (TEAMS) Veterans Counseling.