In June of 2017, Curt Bean, a member of Post 215 in Goochland, Va., saw a video on YouTube talking about Guitars for Veterans (G4V). He contacted the organization and began the process of becoming a chapter coordinator and instructor (CC/Instructor). He became a class “A” CC/Instructor in January 2018.

Curt has been involved in music since he was 5 years old. Through G4V he has found an opportunity to help others using his musical talents.

The G4V is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization which operates more than 140 chapters in over 40 states. Since 2007, they have refined a guitar lesson program that provides veterans living with the challenges of PTSD and other injuries a unique healing alternative.

G4V puts the healing power of music in the hands of heroes by restoring the feelings of joy and purpose that veterans can lose after suffering traumatic experiences. All G4V volunteers practice the PAGE system: Patience, Acceptance, Gratitude and Empathy.

To date, G4V has administered over 60,000 guitar lessons and distributed more than 6,000 guitars. This program is entirely free to each recommended veteran. A guitar is loaned for the first ten lessons and a new guitar plus accessories is awarded upon graduation. Curt has since graduated 20 veterans.

The American Legion Post 215 has donated to the G4V many times and will be supporting a G4V fundraising benefit soon. The American Legion Post 215 Auxiliary (ALA) also awarded Curt the “Quilt of Valor” for his work in the G4V.

In April 2024, the Central Virginia Red Cross chapter awarded Curt the Armed Forces Hero award. Curt’s interview was broadcast on local television by NBC and CBS.

For more information on this program, you may visit the G4V website at: https://guitars4vets.org.