Help Heal Veterans

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

Help Heal Veterans (Heal Vets) is a national nonprofit dedicated to healing the invisible wounds of war through creativity. Since 1971, Heal Vets has provided therapeutic creative kits to veterans and active-duty military to support their “healing journey.” Through these free high-quality kits, Heal Vets provides a time-tested healing tool for PTSD, traumatic brain injury, depression, physical injuries, chronic pain, and the emotional challenges of reintegration. Our work restores dignity, builds resilience, and reminds every veteran that they are seen, valued, and never forgotten.

With a national footprint, dedicated staff, and a long history of service, Heal Vets produces and distributes hundreds of thousands of creative kits annually. These kits often become part of treatment plans for traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, and other wounds of war. Since its founding, Heal Vets has delivered nearly 33 million creative arts kits to VA Medical Centers, Military Hospitals and nonprofit partners nationwide helping an estimated 25 million veterans/active-duty military since inception.

THE OPPORTUNITY

HealVets is seeking two to three mission-aligned volunteer board members to help guide the organization’s next chapter. Board members provide governance, fiduciary oversight, strategic guidance, and active ambassadorship for a national mission serving veterans, service members, military families, and caregivers.

CURRENT SEARCH PRIORITIES

Strategic Leadership: Executive experience that informs strategic discussions, the ability to think long-term, and a focus on making an impact is helping those we serve.

Doctor / Clinician / Mental Health Expertise: A physician, clinician, therapist, mental health professional, rehabilitation specialist, occupational therapist, recreational therapist, art therapist, or related healthcare leader who can strengthen HealVets’ understanding of veteran wellness, PTSD, TBI, anxiety, depression, recovery, resilience, and the therapeutic value of creative engagement.

Fundraising / Influencer / External Influence: A candidate who can expand Heal Vets’ reach and brand awarenesses through philanthropy, major gifts, grants, corporate partnerships, social media influence, and strong networks.

BOARD MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES

• Help set mission, vision, goals, strategic plan, budget, and program direction.
• Provide fiduciary oversight, including review of financial reports, budgets, audits, and policies.
• Serve as an ambassador to funders, partners, thought leaders, decision makers, and the public.
• Open doors to donors, partners, media, and supporters who can help advance the mission.
• Attend quarterly Board meetings, review materials in advance, serve on a committee, and take on special assignments.
• Make an annual personal contribution and participate in the Board’s give-or-get financial policy.

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

• Strong judgment, integrity, collaborative spirit, and commitment to nonprofit governance.
• Ability to contribute expertise, relationships, credibility, or influence that advances HHV’s mission.
• Willingness to advocate for creative engagement as a pathway to healing and resilience.
• Military veteran, spouse/caregiver, or passionate supporter of the veteran and military community is a plus.
• Commitment to diversity, respect, and service to veterans and families from all backgrounds.

TIME COMMITMENT

The Board meets formally four times per year: two meetings by phone or video and two in person, including one in the greater San Diego area and one at a destination agreed upon by the Board. Members serve three-year terms and may serve up to three terms.

HOW TO APPLY OR RECOMMEND A CANDIDATE

Send a resume/CV and brief note of interest to board@healvets.org.