About Us

Through online and in-person workshops led by professional artists, Community Building Art Works builds connected communities where veterans and civilians share creative expression, mutual understanding and support. Our art and poetry workshops have reached tens of thousands of service members, veterans, military family members, caregivers, and healthcare workers. CBAW encourages the use of arts as a tool for narration, self-care and socialization for those struggling with emotional and physical injuries caused by trauma.

Our board is composed of veterans from 4 branches of service, established contemporary artists, military family members, and professionals in the field of adaptive reintegration. In addition to our eight executive board members, CBAW’s work is shaped by stakeholders who provide feedback on community needs, program direction, and help to facilitate workshops and build the community.

Our Team

Seema Reza

Seema Reza

CEO / Poetry Facilitator


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Amelia Bane

Amelia Bane

Director of Digital Media / Writing Facilitator


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Joe Merritt

Joe Merritt

Art Facilitator


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Ashy Palliparambil

Ashy Palliparambil

Director of Programs


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Ben Weakley

Ben Weakley

Director of Development / Poetry Facilitator


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Valerie Acosta

Valerie Acosta

Art Facilitator


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Rob Haney

Rob Haney

Marketing & Communications Manager


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Laura Van Prooyen

Laura Van Prooyen

Poetry Facilitator


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Shaun Smith

Shaun Smith

Art Facilitator


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Alexis Laryea

Alexis Laryea

MTOS Program Manager


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Ester Ortiz-Sanchez

Ester Ortiz-Sanchez

MTOS Program Coordinator


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