Welcome to the Veterans Association of North County

Here For You When You Need Us

Here you will find several resources, programs, services and opportunities for Veterans, Service Members and their families. Our goal is to be your one stop shop for all things, so don’t hesitate to contact us at any time. Programs and services vary, and include additional information for each. We have two Veteran Services Representatives (VSR) here at VANC, read all about them below in Addtional Services at: (www.vanc.me/services-programs)

OUR MISSION

VANC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created and operated by Veterans as a one-stop resource center for all active-duty military, Veterans, and their families. We centralize services from diverse agencies to assist with jobs, education, finances, health, and wellness.

OUR VISION

We seek to honor and support those who have served our country, bridging the past, present, and future. VANC is a vibrant gathering place in North San Diego County, where all Veterans, active-duty military, and their loved ones can reach out for help and community. VANC engages and informs local Veterans organizations, service providers, and individuals, helping them work together. VANC seeks to be a model for other organizations that serve the military community.

Join Us For Amazing Upcoming Events

There’s always engaging things happening at VANC and with our partners. Check our calendar here for regularly scheduled events, meetings and opportunities here at VANC (www.vanc.me/events#calendar) www.vanc.me

WE LOVE OUR ASSOCIATION MEMBERS AND THEY’RE HERE FOR YOU TOO. VANC is open to all military, veterans and friends of the military. If you would like to become a Veterans Association member, Contact Lori at lori@vanc.me to learn more.

VETART currently operates a 5,000 sq ft, state-of-the-art, professionally equipped school of Ceramics and Glass studio space in Vista, California, and provides MFA-level instruction to participants. Encouraging the “see one, do one, teach one” VETART hosts an environment where the veteran community can build their communication, skills, and techniques.

While VETART has a long list of accomplishments to be proud of, Executive Director and Founder, Steven Dilley, remains most proud of the space he has fostered for the community. There is no other program providing the services, connections, or support as VETART.

Studio Classes

VETART currently hosts three ceramic classes a week; classes include art therapy, hand-building, and ceramic wheel instruction. Classes are completely free for not only veterans but also for active-duty military personnel, family and spouses of military members and veterans, veteran caregivers, and first responders.

Jill Brenegan, VETART’s Art Therapist, hosts Mosaic Tile Art Therapy. Bill Warehall who teaches glass Casting, while David Pirl and Steve Dilley teach ceramic hand building and wheel workshops. Classes are suited for all skill levels and instruction is as hands-on or off as participants wish.

In addition to classes, participants are welcome to utilize the studio for their individual art practice. It is common to see artists sculpting, glass casting, and painting.

It is a great space for veterans to decompress, socialize and make messes.

Maria Ysela Galvan, an Army veteran, has been going to the studio since 2019, “The studio is a place for me to socialize and make things I didn’t even know I could. Putting your mind into making art is very healing for the body.

During the calendar year of 2023, VETART has hosted several “Pop-Up Art Cafés” throughout California. These shows feature veteran artists of many mediums and provide them with a space to display and sell their work while connecting with our veteran artists in their area.

The Pop-Up Cafés are designed to engage in dialogue, foster networking, and speak directly to the unique experiences and mental health challenges of the extended Veteran community in these challenging times.

VETART is currently preparing for its large statewide event which will be hosted on the State Capital Grounds in Sacramento. This event is aiming to remind policymakers of the importance and impact art has in many veterans’ lives. As a population that struggles with mental illness and suicide, art can be a healing and empowering force for the community.

The event will be on October 17th, 2023, from 10 AM to 4 PM, State Capital Grounds 13th St & N St. West of the Veterans Memorial, Sacramento, 95814.

There will be displays, artwork, workshops, and music. All are welcome to attend!

POP-UP ARTS CAFE

Partnered with the Mental Health Services Oversight & Accountability Commission (MSHOC), a California state agency, VETART is completing the third year of its statewide arts campaign.

“The pop-up cafés are awesome. I have done several and I have loved everyone. I get to show my art, network with other artists, and get exposure. Also, they allow people to come support veteran artists directly. I am looking forward to displaying my art on the state capitol steps!” - Reginald Green

DoD SKILLBRIDGE LOCATION

To assist transitioning servicemembers gain civilian experience in the world of art, public health, and nonprofit management, VetArt is a proud host of a DoD SkillBridge location. Since its induction into the program in the winter of 2022, they have already hosted four interns – two former Airmen and two Sailors.

Unlike many rigid programs that are currently offered to servicemembers through this program, VetArt allows its interns to shape their experience to fit their goals and desire with only one set-in-stone rule – practice art making. Dilley is a true believer in wellness through art and he wants his interns to share that passion with him throughout their time with VetArt.

For one intern, their time at VetArt was dedicated to launching their creative brand and developing their artistic practice. With the goal of making art their livelihood following retirement from the Airforce, VetArt not only provided them with a space for art creation, but also assisted in forging connections, developing branding, and providing opportunities for exhibits.

Participants

Current participant, Mateo M. - USMC Veteran,.

“After hearing about VetArt through several presentations, and events across the veteran resource community. Such as, SDVC, PEH, and stand-down. I decided to attend a Raku open house to learn more. At the event I was greeted by my peers, (other veterans) all of which were eager and willing to help me get started. They provided me with a pot to glaze for the event. So, I could participate without having ever completed a piece before.

I enjoyed my first experience so much that I committed to visiting the studio every Saturday. Since my first Raku night, I have learned (from instructor David & volunteers) how to make my own ceramics using the pottery wheel.

What I have enjoyed most about my time at Vet Art is the freedom to express myself creatively while learning something new. Working with the clays allows me to be more present, patient and accepting of my mistakes. Trusting that I will improve through consistency.

I can’t express my gratitude enough for the program, staff, and space. Thank you for all that you do!”

For more informatio: (760) 295-0799 info@vetart.org