Veterans Connect and Make Magic With Pottery and Wounded Warrior Project

WESLEY CHAPEL, Fla., Jan. 12, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Worn wooden paintbrushes and sticky, vibrant paint on fingertips can call on childhood recollections of art class. Warriors and families who attended a recent Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) connection event now have fresher memories of exploring their artistic talents – as they enjoyed a pizza dinner and learned about WWP programs at a local pottery studio.

Bernadette Blauvelt, whose husband is a National Guard veteran, owns B Creative Painting Studio and understands the importance of connection in the recovery process. She said she was thrilled to host warriors and families at this WWP gathering.

"The business I am in helped me heal, so I am happy to share it with the warriors and their families," Bernadette said.

Veterans and families worked with bold colors and their imaginations to select pottery to paint as gifts or keepsakes. As participants created their items, they experienced firsthand what is possible at social gatherings that get them out of the house and give them a chance to bond with fellow service members.

"Wounded Warrior Project has changed my life forever. I don't know where I would be without them; they've helped me in ways I can't explain and given me tools and support so I can now help others. Wounded Warrior Project has been there for me when I needed them most, and they have been a blessing to my family and me," said Army veteran Johnny Flores.

The 2016 WWP Annual Warrior Survey highlights the importance of opportunities for connection at WWP outreach events, which support the long-term recovery of warriors in environments that accommodate physical injuries and social anxieties.

"I can honestly say the pottery event went great," Johnny said. "Everyone there was very helpful and hands-on. My family and I felt very comfortable and welcome. The staff was very nice and professional, and we had an amazing time."

To learn more about how WWP's programs and services connect, serve, and empower wounded warriors, visit https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/. For photos from this event, click on multimedia, then images.

About Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) connects, serves, and empowers wounded warriors. Read more at https://newsroom.woundedwarriorproject.org/about-us.

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project