Who are we? 

Guitars for Vets, Inc. (G4V) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that strives to enhance the lives of wounded Veterans by providing them with free guitars and music instruction. Through self-expression and the healing power of music, it is our intent to restore the feelings of joy and purpose that can be lost after suffering trauma.

History

In 2007 Patrick Nettesheim, a Milwaukee-area guitar instructor, was introduced to Vietnam Era Marine, Dan Van Buskirk. Dan wanted to play guitar, but felt that the effects of Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) had left him with the inability to coordinate the hands and the mind. What Dan soon discovered was that the same strong heart and spirit that got him through Vietnam was all that he needed to make music and learn guitar. The lessons that Patrick and Dan shared together were enlightening for them both. Patrick's success as a teacher was not simply about his ability to play guitar, it had much more to do with the teacher/student bond - Patience, Acceptance, Gratitude and Empathy, or being on the same P.A.G.E., as Patrick describes it. When these human qualities are in place, valuable learning begins. "The guitar is a catalyst for positive human interaction", Patrick explains. “It is meditation in motion.”

After a few months in lessons, Dan suggested the two of them bring this modality to the Veterans at the VAMC in Milwaukee. The idea was born, and Patrick coined the name and slogan: GUITARS FOR VETS - The healing power of music in the hands of heroes. Since 2007, Guitars for Vets has provided nearly 6,000 new guitars and 60,000 lessons to our Nation's Veterans. More than 110 chapters have been established in over 40 states and 500 volunteers assure the mission is successful.

Vision

Our primary focus is using the healing power of music to aid our veterans. Whether we agree or disagree with the decision to go to war, one thing is for certain: These are men and women who bravely fight for and honorably represent our country. As a consequence of war, many of our soldiers come home with physical and emotional injuries. They need our support.

Method

Guitars for Vets provides ten free private lessons to military Veterans; all qualifying Veterans are referred to the program by their VA case worker. Lessons, taught by one of more than 500 volunteer instructors are given primarily at VA facilities, where we supply a loaner guitar and accessories. Individual lessons are supplemented by group sessions that offer an additional forum for the Vets to talk and play music with likeminded individuals, many of whom have had the same experiences, emotions and traumas. These music sessions provide a communal atmosphere which fosters teamwork and camaraderie; in many cases, joy and inspiration returns to their lives.

Upon graduation, the Veteran is awarded a guitar, gig bag, picks, strap, tuner, stand, method book, capo and a certificate of completion. The testimonials throughout the website, www.guitarsforvets.org capture what it has meant to some of the Vets participating in our program.