VEP veterans speak in secondary schools, youth programs, colleges, public venues, and at conferences and workshops for human service and education professionals in the Western Massachusetts area. Speakers volunteer their time to participate in our training and programs, and their innovative presentations and extensive community services have earned local and national awards and acclaim. Much of the programming VEP veterans deliver each year are provided to schools and the public for free.

VEP has trained and coordinated speakers back from Iraq and Afghanistan; others have served in conflicts in Somalia, Desert Storm, Vietnam, and WWII. VEP speakers— including those who served in non-combat roles— may share experiences that include overcoming addiction, family violence, incarceration or homelessness in our violence prevention programs for youth. While each speaker has a unique personal story to share, all seek to help young people better understand the realities of war and to think critically about the decisions we make as civilians regarding war and violence.

The Veterans Education Project is a registered 501(C)3 non-profit organization, funded by donations from individuals, businesses and foundation grants. The VEP is not affiliated with the V.A. or any other government agency, nor do we receive federal or state funding for our operating expenses. Donations are tax-deductible.

There is a huge disconnect between the American public and the war in Iraq… It is so important for our students—as well as the general public outside the classroom—to hear the voices and perspectives of veterans who served there. The feedback on your veteran speakers has been overwhelming positive.

Paul Sonnerson, teacher at the Williston-Northampton School, comments on stories shared by Iraq veterans at a Veterans Day all-school assembly that VEP helped organize.

When the presentation ended, I was left wanting more. …I liked how the speaker engaged and involved the audience throughout the presentation. Also, I was so glad the speaker shared his true story with us and didn’t try to cover or sweeten things up.

A high school student responds to a Vietnam veteran’s story

Sharing your stories and putting your life out for us to judge and feel is amazing and takes great courage. I am completely inspired by you and your actions as human beings. Please come back!

Student, Amherst Regional H.S.

PO Box 416

Amherst, MA 01002

Tel. 413-253-4947

VEP@crocker.com