Art Is Medicine, Memorial Day Party fundraiser, May 25, 2026. PC: Fox 11 Online
GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — Monday, a Green Bay nonprofit raised money to continue helping veterans and first responders. It does so, through therapeutic and holistic programs.
Its message is simple. In fact, it’s right in the name, ‘Art Is Medicine.’
Justin Scheidecker, President & Co-founder, started ‘AIM’ in 2024 with a goal in mind.
“It’s to benefit veterans, first responders and their families through the expressive arts,” said Scheidecker.
The organization’s programs include art education, art days and drum circles.
“I was injured in the line of duty. I tore my shoulder up, bicep tendon and had surgery. That’s when I started with sound healing and drumming. For me, if I didn’t find that, I don’t know where I’d be today,” said Scheidecker.
Fundraising events, like the Memorial Day party, allow the programs to be free for veterans and first responders. However, their impact is felt by everyone.
“I know that they aim towards veterans and first responders. However, I attended a couple of their art things and that really helped me with my grief,” said Stephanie Anderson.
Anderson’s 19-year-old daughter died in 2024. Now, she volunteers with the organization.
“Even though I’m not a veteran, I always support them. That’s why I’m here today. I had to do a lot of crying. A lot of crying. In front of other people too. And that brought me closer to these people,” said Anderson.
Jason Holtermann, an ‘AIM’ board member, served in Iraq for 15 months. He says some of his experiences are hard to put into words.
“To express them through art, you get to help heal from a lot of the things that you don’t know how to express or talk about,” said Holtermann.
Both Anderson and Holtermann noted the organization’s community feel.
“I’m a bit of a loner. So, for me to be able to be comfortable around people, and be welcome and accepted, that does a lot,” said Holtermann.
Although its target audience is veterans and first responders, events are open to everyone. The organization just asks for a small donation to keep its services going.
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