Organization Helps Veterans Heal Through Creative Expression

AUSTIN, TX — The AVAFEST, a monthlong (Oct. 12 - Nov. 16) national healing arts festival for veterans, is a community-wide event in support of veterans working toward healing through the practice of the Arts. Sponsored by the Veteran Suicide Prevention Channel whose goal is to begin to end the veteran suicide crisis in America, AVAFEST will host its Opening Day Celebration in Austin on Saturday, Oct. 12 beginning at 12 p.m.

The AISD Performing Arts Center will host the free event ($10 recommended donation) and will feature veteran-owned food trucks, as well as a vendors section to meet veterans and learn about the impact arts have on their lives. Music begins at 1 p.m. with performances from veterans and community members including Moana Tela M.O.E., Valor Alan, Zach Person, as well as stellar performances from veterans of the Armstrong Community School (ACMS). A motorcycle presentation will kick off the event, and the day's celebration will conclude by a performance from internationally acclaimed L.U.C. Rebel Babel Orchestra, as part of their American tour honoring World War II service member who fought to free Europe.

Austin Veteran Arts strives to bring veterans and their communities together, and advance awareness on issues surrounding veterans physical, mental and emotional health and the impact of art plays in their healing. Veterans tell their stories through visual art, photography, sculpture, theatre, poetry, dance, music, culinary arts, and more. The goal of AVAFEST is to foster creative expression and reduce feelings of aggression, anxiety or depression in the veteran and veteran family community.

If you or someone you know are struggling emotionally or experiencing a hard time and have or are having suicidal thoughts, please contact the Veterans Suicide Prevention Channel or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.