A 2023 Creative Forces Community Engagement Grant enabled COSACOSA at large to expand its reach, fostering creative expression and social connection for veterans in the Philadelphia area. Serving Justice, the organization’s Creative Forces-supported military arts program, culminated in a veteran-led mosaic project, spoken word album, and poetry chapbook.

Clare Shepherd is a retired Army captain who discovered her passion for glass art after spending eight years in the military. Shepherd has found joy in connecting other veterans to art. She is also a teaching artist at Maryland Hall, a 2023 Creative Forces Community Engagement Grantee.

Jazz vocalist and Navy veteran Angela Walker shares her journey from battling health challenges to discovering the healing power of music. Angela has been a featured performer and competitor at the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, winning more than ten times. She has also found a community through the arts and enjoys performing for veterans and active-duty service members.

Veteran Donna Harge shares her journey with art therapy and music therapy at the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System. After her military service and a career at the VA, she traveled the world. She now finds healing and joy through music and art and shares that joy with her community.