"Never was so much owed by so many to so few."

-Winston Churchill

This year, we extend a special appeal on behalf of our Military in the Arts Initiative (WMAI). The WMAI strives to provide artistic space and developmental opportunities for the men and women who have given selflessly to protect our rights and freedoms.

With Fort Belvoir located just around the corner (and with the Pentagon as our not-too-distant neighbor), we are uniquely positioned to serve an estimated 65,000 military veterans living in Fairfax County and another 40,000 living in Prince William County. Through WMAI, the Workhouse is dedicated to enhancing equity, access, and opportunities for veterans, active-duty personnel, and their families, ensuring their participation in quality arts programming that is both sensitive and responsive to their unique needs and experiences.

The therapeutic power of art for veterans is well-documented. Art therapy provides emotional relief by encouraging the expression of feelings and concerns, while the act of creating art is known to alleviate depression and anxiety. WMAI offers therapeutic artmaking, visual art courses and other programs designed to support healing. Importantly, these programs are free and open to all U.S. Military branches and reservists, as well as direct family members and caregivers. Additionally, subsidies for regularly programmed Workhouse arts courses are available.

Learn more about WMAI Programs

Our collaboration with Board Member, Colonel Gregory D. Gadson (Ret.), has been instrumental in shaping the WMAI program. Colonel Gadson, a decorated veteran, showcased his solo photography exhibition, Gregory Gadson: Life in the Infrared, at the McGuireWoods Gallery at the Workhouse. His recently released book, "Finding Waypoints: A Warrior’s Journey Toward Peace and Purpose," details his inspirational comeback following the loss of both of his legs in an IED attack in Iraq.

Colonel Gadson’s story is so inspiring that we wish to share it with YOU. In appreciation of your generosity, all donors contributing $250 or more as a year-end gift to the Workhouse will receive a copy of "Finding Waypoints" as our heartfelt thanks.

Make Your Gift Today

Donors at or above the $250 level will also receive a special invitation to a book signing and talk with the author. This event is scheduled for the evening of Thursday, February 1 at the Workhouse Arts Center campus, and we would love for you to join us. Details to follow.

WMAI Future Plans

As we look ahead to 2024, we are excited about the additional plans for the Military in the Arts Initiative:

Expanded Programs: We plan to broaden our range of programs to cater to the diverse needs and interests of our military community.
Collaborative Exhibitions: We aim to foster collaborations with other arts organizations and institutions to showcase the talent and creativity of our military-affiliated artists.
Community Outreach: The Workhouse will intensify its efforts to engage with the broader community, raising awareness about the therapeutic benefits of the arts for veterans and active-duty personnel.
Guest Workshops: Renowned artists and therapists will be invited to conduct special workshops, providing unique opportunities for skill development and creative expression.

Contribute to WMAI

Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference in the lives of those who have served our country. To make a tax-deductible year-end donation and support the Workhouse Military in the Arts Initiative, please donate online (choosing WMAI as the program) or contact Kathi Lunardi in our Advancement Department at advancement@workhousearts.org or 202-368-6813. Your generosity will play a crucial role in making the arts a source of healing and empowerment for our military community.

Thank you for being a vital part of the Workhouse Arts Center family. Together, let's continue to make a lasting impact through the transformative power of the arts.

With gratitude,