SongwritingWith:Soldiers

SongwritingWith:Soldiers brings service members, veterans, and military families together with professional songwriters to co-create powerful songs that are grounded in lived experience, shaped by each storyteller, and created to build connection. These collaborations take place in a trusted, evidence-informed retreat program designed to foster creativity, connection, and meaningful expression. Since 2012, SW:S has offered retreats, alumni programs, and music-based initiatives grounded in dignity, care, and respect. The process invites participants to express what often goes unsaid—through a creative partnership that honors their words and experiences. Every song is co-written with full consent and intention. With participant permission, many of these songs are shared—through performances, playlists, and public platforms—to build understanding, strengthen community, and amplify the voices of those who serve. This work is guided by multidisciplinary teams, including professional songwriters trained in the SongwritingWith:Soldiers’ methodology and culture. A pilot study by Harvard/Massachusetts General Hospital found that the SW:S approach may support reductions in symptoms of post- traumatic stress and depression, reinforcing the power of creative expression in trusted settings. To date, SW:S has engaged thousands of service members, veterans, and family members across the country. Learn more at https://www.songwritingwithsoldiers.org