At Ease: Nature & Art for Veterans

​Brushwood Center’s At Ease program is an innovative approach to empower Military Veterans’ wellbeing through a series of nature-based art and photography workshops. 

​This program is offered at no charge to Military Veterans thanks to our supporters and partners. Brushwood Center collaborates with the James A. Lovell Federal Healthcare Center and local partners to connect Veterans to the arts and the opportunity to explore and restore in nature. Participants immerse themselves in the peaceful sanctuary provided by Brushwood Center at the pristine Ryerson Woods, and discover a new side of themselves and the natural world through the creative arts.  All Veterans and their families are welcomed! 

In response to the COVID-19 crisis, we have created virtual workshops to help Veterans and their families find peace, community, and artistic expression during this difficult time.

Get Involved!

If you are a Veteran or Veteran family member, explore our upcoming programs below!

We also welcome volunteers and additional support to:
  • Volunteer time, equipment, or other skills to programs.
  • Refer a Veteran's community group, treatment facility, or corporate Veteran's program to connect with At Ease.
  • Donate to support more programs for Veterans.
Contact Jessica Klinge, Veterans Program Specialist, for additional information.
Learn more about At Ease in this video coverage by ABC 7 Chicago.

Upcoming and Current Programs

Please join us for an upcoming program!  You can explore current At Ease opportunities by clicking the images below, and learn more about our past programs here. 
Intro to Photography for Veterans | February 8, 2023
Art Impact Project at Brushwood Center | February 21, 2023
Healing Winter Wonderland Hike at Ryerson Woods | February 1, 2023
Story Sharing and Meditation for Veterans | February 11, 2023
Nature Platoon Challenge
Watercolor Painting for Women Veterans
21850 N. Riverwoods Rd.
​Riverwoods, IL 60015
224.633.2424 info@brushwoodcenter.org
Brushwood Center at Ryerson Woods is committed to enabling the participation and enjoyment of our programming and events for all visitors. At Brushwood Center, you will have open access to accessible parking and entrance to the house, a gender neutral bathroom, and changing tables.
If you require certain accommodations in order to observe or attend our events, or have questions regarding accessibility of our facilities, please contact our Manager of Public Programs and Communications, Parker Nelson, at pnelson@brushwoodcenter.org or at (224) 633-2424 ext. 1.
Programming and events at Brushwood Center is available to everyone, including but not limited to age, disability, gender, marital status, national origin, race, religion, and sexual orientation.​​
​OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Mondays & Wednesdays: 10am - 3pm
Sundays: 1pm - 3pm
and by appointment