Honoring Veterans Through the Healing Power of Music

How SongwritingWith:Soldiers is creating connection, healing, and hope through storytelling and song

In 2025, SongwritingWith:Soldiers reached a remarkable milestone, delivering programming to 1,450 individuals — an 18% increase and the highest participation in the organization’s history. Across 22 states, including New York, Florida, Texas, Tennessee, Colorado, and Washington, veterans and their families came together through the transformative power of collaborative songwriting, resulting in the creation of 303 original songs.

One of the organization’s most impactful experiences this year took place in New York at the beautiful Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming in Cold Spring. During a Signature Retreat held April 25–27, eight veterans from across the country arrived carrying unique stories, challenges, and experiences. Over the course of the weekend, those stories were transformed into deeply personal songs alongside acclaimed professional songwriters Terry Radigan, Erin Enderlin, James House, and Danny Myrick.

Through songwriting sessions, journaling, reflection, and meaningful conversations, participants found more than creativity — they found connection, understanding, and community. By the retreat’s closing concert, each veteran heard their story performed through music, creating a powerful reminder that their voices matter and their experiences deserve to be heard.

The impact of these retreats extends far beyond a single weekend. Songs created during the New York programming were professionally recorded and shared online, allowing broader audiences to connect with the experiences of our veterans and fostering deeper understanding through music and storytelling.

As SongwritingWith:Soldiers continues to expand its national reach, New York remains an important hub for growth and engagement within the veteran community. The organization’s work demonstrates how creative expression can open doors to healing, reduce isolation, and create lasting bonds among participants.

The heartfelt testimonials from retreat participants speak volumes about the life-changing nature of the experience:

“What impacted me the most was how seen and heard I felt... It reminded me that I’m not alone, and that even the hardest parts of my journey can be turned into something meaningful.”

“The retreat was the lifeline I needed... I arrived carrying stress, discouragement, and depression, but left with peace and gratitude.”

“I will forever be very grateful. Thank you SongwritingWith:Soldiers staff and donors for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

We are honored to highlight the extraordinary work of SongwritingWith:Soldiers and their unwavering commitment to supporting veterans through storytelling, creativity, and human connection.

You can learn more about this organization and hear their amazing music here: https://songwritingwithsoldiers.org/