About Us
Our board is composed of veterans from 3 branches of service, established contemporary artists, and professionals in the field of adaptive reintegration. In addition to our seven executive board members, CBAW’s work is shaped by stakeholders, through an advisory council that includes veterans, artists, and mental health clinicians. These individuals provide feedback on community needs, program direction, and help to facilitate workshops and build the community.
I started Community Building Art Works with a group of veterans and artists who believe, as I do, that it takes more than meds and therapy to come through trauma. It takes laughter and friendship and space to tell your story. It takes creating relationships with people who are different from you.
I’ll always be Sgt. Merritt, but I’ll also be a human and an artist and a poet and most importantly, part of a community.
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to share the programs that helped me with other veterans.
Joe Merritt, Vice Chairman, CBAW
