Hi Everyone,
First, it's nice to be a visible member of this forum, and hope to add real value. I've been reading the contributions for years on the Creek, but recently decided to join. Please allow me to introduce myself and this cause.
Me. Navy veteran, and grad student at American University in DC. Been devouring woodworking info since I was a kid, and recently started assembling my second attempt at a respectable shop.
My Cause: I'm producing a short film on woodworking as a PTSD therapy, and starting a 501c3 to promote the same. This is the final project to finish my master's degree in Communications.
What I'm looking for:
- Any information on programs that are currently helping vets to cope with PTSD and other issues through craft, most especially woodworking.
- Any published research that may support the efficacy of this claim. I have a couple sources, but could always use more.
- Any names of experts in woodworking and/or psychology who may find this a worthwhile affair.
- Anyone who would like to provide testimonials on their own therapy.
- Any volunteers who would like to help kickstart this project through pro-bono consultation (legal, financial, management, marketing, board membership, etc). I could use all the help I can get.
- Anyone who lives near Boston, MA or Rancho Cucamonga, CA that wouldn't mind a vet couch surfing for a couple days. Need to shoot a cross-country documentary film on pocket change, and could really use the help.
- Anyone who would like to share a room at Woodworking in America, in a couple weeks (this is short notice, I know... found out a little late about the conference. I'd be happy to sleep on the floor.)
I realize that this all seems a bit far-fetched, but I have 3 months to complete the film for a grade, and at least provide a solid plan for the nonprofit. Thankfully, where I might be limited in funding, I'm limitless in passion for the subject.
Hope to get some equally crazy responses. Let's start this conversation.