For veterans carrying the invisible scars of PTSD and other challenges, music is proving to be a powerful salve for the soul. Through the Guitars 4 Vets (G4V) program, veterans not only learn to play guitar but also receive one of their own to keep, unlocking new opportunities for healing and self-expression. Now, thanks to a local initiative and a generous grant, more veterans in Stanislaus County can benefit from this life-changing program.
Doug “PC” Boele, local Chapter Coordinator for Guitars 4 Vets and a member of the Escalon American Legion Post 263, recently accepted a $1,000 donation on behalf of the program. The funds, provided by the Stanislaus Senior Foundation, will equip five veterans with guitars upon completing the program’s 10-week course.
“After they finish the course, about week eight I’ll notify the home office and they’ll start sending out the guitar that they’re going to get to keep for free,” Boele explained. “It’s something they can start with.”
Boele’s enthusiasm for the program is matched by that of Mickey Peabody, a longtime Oakdale resident and community activist who spearheaded the grant application. Peabody’s dedication turned an initial idea of funding one guitar into a request for $1,000—a leap that ensures more veterans will benefit.
“PC is a great guy and he just wants to help,” Peabody said. The initiative impressed the Foundation’s board, including Sally Bolger, who presented the check.
“We help seniors in need, all kinds of different projects,” Bolger shared. “This one was definitely something that Billie [Scott], our president, felt strongly about … we thought nothing better than senior vets that we would want to help.”
Founded in 2007, Guitars 4 Vets operates through more than 100 chapters across 40 states. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, its mission is clear: to offer veterans an alternative path to healing through music.
“We have refined a guitar lesson program that provides veterans living with the challenges of PTSD and other injuries a unique alternative to healing,” states the organization’s brochure. With over 500 volunteers, the program has delivered more than 8,000 guitars into the hands of veterans.
Locally, Boele has been working since before the pandemic to bring the Escalon chapter to life. He’s looking to expand not just the roster of veteran participants but also the team of instructors. “We are looking for instructors,” Boele noted, as current veterans meet in small, separate sessions each Monday.
Boele is optimistic about the future, crediting recreational therapists for reaching out to enroll their clients and emphasizing the program’s ultimate goal. “This is all to help them,” Boele said simply.
For those interested in contributing or learning more, Guitars 4 Vets invites inquiries at ca.escalon@guitarsforvets.org. Whether you’re a veteran, a potential instructor, or simply someone moved by the power of music, the program’s message is clear: “People helping people, that’s what it’s all about,” Bolger said.
