The Common Ground on the Hill Veterans Initiative

In 2012 we brought 10 veterans to Common Ground on the Hill.

In 2013 we are committed to bringing 30!

 

"I just want to thank you all, for saving my life." - Josh Hisle, USMC

 

"What I've already experienced here, if we could give that to other veterans,

that's a gift to the world." - Scott Blakley, USMC

 

Short Summary

Veterans face as many challenges upon returning home as they do in the field of battle. They also possess many skills and leadership qualities that our nation needs, and their experiences offer an opportunity to broaden the dialogue about critical issues here on the home front, and to enrich all of our lives.

For 19 years, Common Ground on the Hill has gathered a multicultural community of musicians, artists, writers, lecturers, actors, and dancers - sharing skills with students of all ages and with one another. The mission is to improve ourselves, our communities and our world as we meet, share and celebrate our arts and cultures on "common ground". 

 

In 2012, CGOTH launched its Veterans Initiative, providing full scholarships for ten veterans to attend its summer workshops at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD. The experience was transformative. Both the veterans group and the greater Common Ground community thrived in an environment of mutual respect and sharing, even through a sometimes difficult dialogue.

The Impact

I've been involved in CGOTH for 15 years - first as a volunteer, then as a performing musician, now as an instructor in the Distinctive Lecture Series and part of the Veterans Initiative. It's difficult to explain the transformative effect of Common Ground on the Hill unless you've experienced it, but the first person feedback we received from the veterans who participated in our inaugural year of the Common Ground Veterans Initiative spoke of nothing less than a life-changing impact. Be sure to watch our video to hear their voices for yourself.

Other Ways You Can Help

We know that not everyone can afford to fund a campaign, even one that they fully believe in. If you would like to help us spread the word, please share our video with your friends, family and colleagues!