AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) – A local nonprofit serving veterans through art is looking to expand its operations at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial Center.

CreatiVets uses art to help veterans cope with service-related trauma and transform their stories into form that can inspire and motivate continued healing.

“It’s the focus that comes with learning a new skill, that helps take veterans out of that negative space and just helps take them out of the isolation of their home where they may have- “I’ve been through the last few weeks,” said Maria Hernandez, veteran and Chief of the Amarillo chapter of CreatiVets.

Hernandez says the program has grown over the past couple of months and the need for more space would be helpful.

The nonprofit is looking to expand its operations at the Texas Panhandle War Memorial.

To make this happen, CreatiVets is asking for donations to help pay the monthly rent.

To make a donation, go to Texas Panhandle War Memorial for the purpose of CreatiVets or donate directly to CreatiVets.

“Over the years, the arts – no matter what it is, whether it’s music therapy or art therapy – we’ve learned that it helps rewire the brain and helps them transition to a higher level and hopefully have a sense of peace in their skin,” said Tim Reid, executive director of the Texas Panhandle War Memorial.

Hernandez and Reid believe the memorial space would provide a meaningful and powerful setting for veterans to create art and connect with one another, surrounded by symbols of service and sacrifice.

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