MAKE IT
MADE BY VETERANS
MAKE IT
The idea for the Made by Veterans project started as far back as 2011 on one of our long distance walking expeditions where we were camped next to a river in Scotland and were getting the evening meal on over an open fire using a Dutch Oven.
The veterans on the walk were given a carving tool and told to carve themselves a spoon for their meal. We observed the concentration on their faces and the laughs within the group was great to see and we knew by focusing on something it enabled them to engage with others and produce something they could use.
The idea for the Made by Veterans project started as far back as 2011 on one of our long distance walking expeditions where we were camped next to a river in Scotland and were getting the evening meal on over an open fire using a Dutch Oven.
The veterans on the walk were given a carving tool and told to carve themselves a spoon for their meal. We observed the concentration on their faces and the laughs within the group was great to see and we knew by focusing on something it enabled them to engage with others and produce something they could use.
Fast forward several years and we now teach veterans to design merchandise including printing mugs, pring clothing and also to embroider clothing.
We have been doing this for many years now and the reality is most veterans initially are a bit reticent to get involved but once they do they become very enthusiastic.
All items made are used on our expeditions and also sold to the public with all funds going back into the project and also to fund other projects that the veterans get involve on
I became involved with VIA in 2010 after my life took a turn for the worse and was invited along to do some fundraising with them. This helped me no end and in time my life got back on track. I completed a Union Flag Walk with them from Cape Wrath to Land’s End which again helped as walking and talking with other veterans with similar stories was a great help in understanding how I was feeling. I gained control of my life again.
In 2019, I took part on an overland expedition travelling through the Spanish Pyrenees and whilst away my life took a turn for the worse again due to family problems back in the UK. On my return I had to start again and rebuild and focus on the future and with the help of Veterans In Action I got back on track and took control.
I now own and run my own courier business.
Mark Colman former Royal Engineers
QUOTE
I became involved with VIA in 2010 after my life took a turn for the worse and was invited along to do some fundraising with them. This helped me no end and in time my life got back on track.
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