#USA #veterans support #Potomac #Mission Belonging #Community Art

Mission Belonging Unveils New Identity and Event

An exciting transformation is taking place within the community-focused nonprofit, Community Building Art Works (CBAW), which is rebranding to Mission Belonging. This change signifies a renewed commitment to foster connections among veterans, active service members, military families, and civilians through the power of art.

The organization is well-known for facilitating arts programs that help individuals navigate their emotional and physical traumas through collective creative expression. With this mission in mind, Mission Belonging will host a significant event titled A Day of Belonging, scheduled for September 13, 2025, at Rockwood Manor in Potomac, Maryland. In partnership with Strathmore, this immersive celebration aims to engage the community with various art forms, creating opportunities for healing and connection.

The Essence of A Day of Belonging

This full-day event is designed to provide a platform for community members to explore their creativity. Attendees can participate in professionally facilitated workshops covering visual art, poetry, improv, ukulele, and songwriting. Among the engaging activities, the day will feature a keynote address from Captain Adam K. Saperstein, MD, FAAFP, along with a performance by acclaimed composer and cellist Wytold, adding a musical flair to the event.

The concept behind A Day of Belonging stems from Mission Belonging’s core belief that through the arts, individuals can find comfort and understanding in shared experiences. This event creates an opportunity for participants to express themselves and connect with others who have confronted similar challenges.

Registration for the event is set at a nominal fee of $5, with all proceeds dedicated to covering travel costs for art facilitators and veteran participants. This small investment opens the door to a day filled with creativity, community, and compassion.

United Against Silence: A Prelude Showcase

Additionally, as part of its commitment to community engagement, Mission Belonging will also host the United Against Silence showcase on September 12, 2025, at The Strathmore Mansion in Rockville, Maryland. This evening event—hosted by Mission Belonging’s founder, Seema Reza—will feature performances from local poets and musicians, showcasing the talents and courage of community members in a relatable and expressive atmosphere.

As the organization embarks on this new chapter as Mission Belonging, it aims to expand its reach, ensuring that every veteran knows they do not bear their burdens alone. This mission is about more than just artistic ventures; it's about creating a supportive and vibrant community where everyone can find healing and shared purpose through art.

Why This Matters

In times where isolation can be a significant challenge, particularly among veterans and active military personnel, events like A Day of Belonging play an essential role in building resilience. They provide spaces where stories can be shared, creativity can emerge, and individuals can experience the strength of collective support.

Mission Belonging is steadfast in its belief that the arts can serve as a crucial tool for mental and emotional healing—empowering individuals to narrate their journeys through trauma while connecting with others who understand these experiences.

For anyone interested in joining this celebration or learning more about Mission Belonging’s programming, registration for A Day of Belonging can be completed online through their official website. The organization invites all interested parties to partake in this day of creativity and communal healing.

In conclusion, as November approaches, look out for what promises to be a transformative day filled with inspiration, support, and an enduring sense of community. Mission Belonging is not only building an environment for creativity but also cultivating a home in the hearts of those it serves.