Guitars for Vets
6501 3rd Ave., Kenosha
855-G4V-HERO (855-448-4376) | Guitarsforvets.org
Facebook: facebook.com/GuitarsForVets
Twitter: @GuitarsForVets
Year founded: 2007
Mission statement: Guitars for Vets puts the healing power of music in the hands of heroes.
Primary focus: Bringing hope and joy to United States military veterans struggling with the challenges of physical and emotional injuries by providing them with free guitars and lessons.
Other focuses: Building community by providing a forum for veterans and civilians to come together and share music, stories, understanding, teamwork and camaraderie.
Employees at this location: Four
Key donors: Yamaha, Gibson Foundation, Kraft Music, Hal Leonard, Reverb and The Les Paul Foundation.
Executive leadership: Eric Weinstein, executive director; Patrick Nettesheim, co-founder, fundraising, strategic partnerships, media; Bernie Kampf, director of operations; Michael Nettesheim, event coordinator and donations; Bailey King, national chapter coordinator; Peg Andrae, operations.
Board of directors: Pete Ruzicka, president and chairman; Bernard (Bud) Bobber, secretary; Dave Globig, treasurer; Beverly R. Belfer, Ph.D.; Ben Kraft; Major General Stephen R. Layfield, USA (ret); and Eric Weinstein.
Is your organization actively seeking board members? Yes.
What roles are you looking to fill? Fundraising and strategic corporate partnerships.
Ways the business community can help your nonprofit: Guitars for Vets is in need of donations of musical instruments and money. Additionally, we are seeking volunteers with great communication skills and a passion for supporting our vets.
Key fundraising events:
Guitars for Vets Benefit Concert: Saturday, Nov. 9, 4-6 p.m., Brass Bell Music Store, 210 W. Silver Spring Drive, Glendale. Free performances by Guitars for Vets students and instructors. Guitar and instrument drive to take place all week leading up to the performance. Donations accepted at Brass Bell Music Store.
Rock to Remember: Monday, Nov. 11, 6-10 p.m., Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery, 917 W. Juneau Ave., Milwaukee. Performances by Kharma Shotgun, Scott E. Berendt & the U.S. Project, Shattered. Family-friendly soiree will feature silent auctions, music, dancing and many surprises as we celebrate our military veterans of all ages. Instrument donations are encouraged. Food, beverages and G4V apparel will be available.
