WINCHESTER, Calif., July 3, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- They're young, wear uniforms, take direction from superiors and serve our country, but in a much different way than their audience. These youthful men and women are not on the front lines in Afghanistan or Iraq, but are instead performing on-stage.
They're called Re-Creation, USA and what they do is nothing short of remarkable.
Re-Creation, USA is a non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to thank America's veterans with live, fun-filled and interactive variety shows. Since 1983, Re-Creation, USA has been the only continuous, live, therapeutic entertainment presence to those receiving care in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers and state veterans homes across the country. Shows range from variety of song and dance, to musicals based on hit TV shows and blockbuster movies and patriotic themes.
Founded in 1976 by Hugh Brooks, an instructor at Pennsylvania State University, Re-Creation today performs about 300 shows a year across the country. Brooks simply realized the tremendous therapeutic value that live entertainment could have on hospitalized veterans and put his idea into action.
Re-Creation recruits from hundreds of talented young people, many majoring in theater and music at some of our nation's most prestigious universities. Some have even moved into successful careers, performing on Broadway and in Opryland and Branson Theaters.
Help Hospitalized Veterans (HHV), the largest provider of free arts and crafts kits to VA and military hospitals worldwide is a sponsor of Re-Creation, USA. "The entertainment provided to our nation's hospitalized veterans is superb; the performers are terrific young Americans," said Mike Lynch, HHV president and CEO.
When Re-Creation arrives at a show location, the performers set up their own stage, sound and lighting equipment, then change into costume and visit personally with veterans before escorting them to the show. Afterward, they again visit with each person in the audience, escort the veterans back to their rooms, break down their equipment and head to the next location.
"HHV is extremely proud to support this outstanding program, as it's gratifying to see these young adults reaching out to help veterans, many who have suffered the effects of war and disability. Their ability to personally connect with each veteran and offer their thanks from a grateful nation is admirable," said Lynch.
Re-Creation has been described as the very best this nation has to offer: youthful enthusiasm, love of country, appreciation for our veterans, the highest quality entertainment, recognition of our spiritual heritage, and a wholesome production that makes us all proud to be Americans!
Since 1971, HHV has donated over 27 million therapeutic arts and crafts kits to VA and military hospitals worldwide. In addition to Re-Creation, HHV also provides support to many other programs that help rehabilitate our nation's hospitalized and disabled veterans. For additional information visit HHV.org or Re-CreationUSA.com.
A photo accompanying this release is available at:
http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=13545
