Classes for Veterans

Two Classes:

• CLC’s Home for Heroes on Thursdays at 1 p.m.
• New Directions on Thursdays at 1 p.m.

Unleash your creativity in our Veteran art classes, designed to provide a welcoming and inspiring space for Veterans, whether you're an experienced artist or picking up a paintbrush for the first time. Explore various artistic mediums such as painting, drawing, and mixed media. Guided by a supportive instructor, you'll learn new techniques, express yourself through art, and connect with fellow Veterans in a relaxed and encouraging environment.

The class aims to provide Veterans with a creative outlet that promotes self-expression, emotional well-being, and connection with others, while developing artistic skills and exploring new forms of creativity.

Building 257, 2nd Floor, with the Vocational Rehabilitation Program

Six-week sessions, Tuesdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. (start dates are decided by Lakeshia Gill with the Voc Rehab Program). To take this class, you must sign up with Ms. Lakeshia Gill by emailing Lakeshia.Gill@va.gov.

Designed for people who are new to computers or looking to build confidence with technology, the course offers participants a clear introduction to essential computer functions in a supportive and encouraging environment. You'll learn how to navigate basic computer systems, with these key areas of focus:

• Understanding computer components and their functions
• Navigating the desktop and managing files
• Accessing and effectively using web browsers
• Setting up, sending, receiving, and organizing email
• Exploring basic internet searches, saves, and safety 

The course aims to provide participants with the foundational skills and confidence needed to navigate everyday technology tasks independently and effectively.

Building 257, 2nd Floor, with the Vocational Rehabilitation Program

Six-week sessions, Tuesdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. (start dates are decided by Lakeshia Gill with the Voc Rehab Program. To take this class, you must sign up with Ms. Lakeshia Gill by emailing Lakeshia.Gill@va.gov.

Brentwood School, in partnership with the VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services, offers six-week courses to help Veterans find jobs. Students will learn to compete for the jobs they want and enhance their job marketing skills.

The course aims to equip Veterans with the essential skills and strategies needed to successfully pursue employment opportunities. Through hands-on lessons in resume building, cover letter writing, mock interviews, and effective job searching, participants will gain the confidence and tools necessary to compete for and secure their desired roles.

Monthly at the Domiciliary and Building 209 at the West Los Angeles VA Campus

Dates are noted on the recreation therapist or supervisor’s calendars.

A fun and engaging cooking class where Veterans learn how to make a healthy, affordable recipe. Expand your culinary skills while connecting with other Veterans over the joy of cooking and the taste of delicious food. Of course, lunch is served after the cooking lesson!

The cooking class explores a healthy recipe with the goals of improving students’ cooking techniques and their understanding of health and nutrition. Try a new recipe, or simply enjoy some great food!

Monthly at the Domiciliary Computer Lab, Building 217

Dates and times vary due and are on the recreation therapist’s monthly calendar.

Unlock your creativity and discover the power of storytelling in our Creative Writing Seminar, designed specifically for Veterans. This engaging and supportive workshop invites participants to explore various writing styles, from personal short essays to poetry. Whether you’re looking to share your experiences, reflect on meaningful moments, or simply express your thoughts through writing, this seminar offers a welcoming space to develop your voice and connect with others. No prior writing experience is required — just bring your ideas and an open mind!

The seminar’s goal is to empower Veterans with the tools and confidence to express themselves through creative writing, fostering self-reflection, connection, and personal growth.

Once in fall and spring, at the Forklift Academy in Chatsworth; transportation will be provided from the West LA VA Campus. Shuttle will depart from Building 257 at 7:45 a.m.

Spots are limited. You must sign up with Ms. Lakeshia Gill to take this class by emailing her at Lakeshia.Gill@va.gov.

Brentwood School, in partnership with the VA and the Vocational Rehabilitation Program and the Forklift Academy of Los Angeles, is proud to offer a comprehensive Forklift Training and Certification Program for Veterans. This one-day course provides hands-on training and certification for both Standard Sit-Down Forklifts and Order Pickers — two essential pieces of equipment that make up 90% of the industry market, opening the door to numerous job opportunities. A shuttle will be provided for Veterans from the West Los Angeles VA campus to the Forklift Academy in Chatsworth. The shuttle will depart from Building 257 at 7:45 a.m.

The course aims to equip Veterans with the knowledge, skills, and certification required to safely operate forklift equipment, increasing their employability and expanding career opportunities in warehouse, logistics, and related industries.

Monthly at the Domiciliary Computer Lab, Building 217

Dates and times vary and are on the recreation therapist’s monthly calendar.

Take control of your financial future with this informative and engaging workshop, designed for individuals at any stage of their financial journey. Whether you're just starting out or seeking to sharpen your financial skills, this class offers practical insights and real-world scenarios to help you make informed decisions. From building credit to planning for long-term goals, you'll gain the tools and knowledge needed to help you achieve financial progress and stability.

The goal of this course is to provide participants with the skills, strategies, and confidence to manage their personal finances effectively, make sound financial decisions, and build a secure path toward financial well-being.

*Additional resources: 

https://www.khanacademy.org/college-careers-more/financial-literacy

https://www.khanacademy.org/college-careers-more/personal-finance

Once In fall and spring at the Veterans Collective Center or Building 257, 2nd floor

Spots are limited. You must sign up with Ms. Lakeshia Gill to take this class by emailing her at Lakeshia.Gill@va.gov.

Pre-registration is required, and participants must bring a valid ID for fingerprinting.

In partnership with Pacific West Academy, Brentwood School offers a one-day session led by a skilled instructor to help participants apply for their California Guard Card certification. This certification is a valuable credential for those seeking employment in security-related fields. Participants must meet state requirements, including having no violent convictions. All class costs, including lunch, are provided by Brentwood School. 

The goal of this course is to equip participants with the knowledge and resources needed to successfully apply for their California Guard Card certification, opening doors to new employment opportunities in security and related industries.

Weekly at the Veterans Center for Recreation and Education (VCRE)

Group or individual times may vary and are set up by our music teachers.

Discover the joy of playing guitar in this class designed specifically for Veterans. Whether you've always wanted to learn or are looking to pick up the guitar again, this class provides a supportive and relaxed environment to explore the fundamentals of playing. You'll learn basic chords, strumming techniques, and simple songs, while building confidence and enjoying the therapeutic benefits of music. No prior experience is required — just bring your passion for music and a desire to learn! If you don’t own a guitar, we can provide one for you to practice on.

This class introduces Veterans to the fundamentals of guitar playing, fostering creativity, relaxation, and a sense of accomplishment while providing a fun and engaging way to connect with others through music.

Brentwood School, in partnership with the VA Greater Los Angeles
Healthcare System’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services offers a basic typing
and keyboarding class designed to help Veterans strengthen essential
computer skills. Participants will receive hands-on practice using provided
computers to improve typing speed, accuracy, and overall confidence.

Wednesdays from 2-3 p.m. at the Veterans Collective Center on the West Los Angeles VA campus (*Excluding holidays and school breaks)

Our Literature Lounge space welcomes all Veterans — from those just beginning their reading journey to book enthusiasts. Whether you’re aiming to expand your vocabulary, improve reading fluency, sharpen comprehension skills, or simply connect with other Veterans and dive into meaningful conversations about books, characters, and literary devices, this is the place for you! We've explored some interesting classics, such as The Most Dangerous Game, The Lottery, To Build a Fire, and Button, Button — and now we're gearing up to dive into a recent bestseller! Most importantly, we want each piece we read to be a true page-turner — thought-provoking and with content to keep you hooked!

Brentwood School provides all reading materials — and snacks, because great stories are even better with a little treat! 

The goal of this course is to foster a welcoming and engaging environment where Veterans can enhance their reading skills, expand their literary knowledge, and connect with others through meaningful discussions. 

Note:

*If you are struggling to read or would like to practice your reading comprehension skills, this provides a variety of reading exercises and other resources: https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/skills/reading/a1-reading

This is a great, free resource to support your learning journey, with multiple levels to choose from to practice your reading comprehension.

One Saturday a month during the spring, weather permitting, in the VCRE Pavilion

Join us for dinner and a fun movie! The goal of our movie nights is to provide Veterans with recreation, entertainment, and community time together.

Tuesdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at the Domiciliary Computer Lab, Building 217 (excluding holidays and school breaks)

Led primarily by Brentwood School Upper School students, this Veteran tech time — also known as the VA Genius Bar — offers personalized tech support at the Domiciliary. Veterans can receive hands-on assistance with their phones, laptops, computers, or tablets. Whether you're troubleshooting a device, setting up apps, managing files, or enhancing digital skills, our dedicated team is here to help.

The goal is to provide Veterans with hands-on tech support and guidance, empowering them to use their devices confidently and effectively in their daily lives.

Additional resources:

• GCF Global
• Microsoft Modern Workplace Training
• LinkedIn Computer Course
• LinkedIn: Working with computers and devices
• Microsoft Activities and Projects
• Microsoft Office Activities and Projects for the Classroom

Public Speaking for Veterans is a hands-on, practice-based workshop designed to help strengthen public speaking skills through repeated, supportive practice. This four-session series focuses on the core elements of effective delivery—eye contact, vocal projection, pronunciation, and clear diction—while providing a safe space for feedback and growth. Participants will refine their communication style, build confidence, and develop the presence needed to speak with clarity and impact in any setting.

Monthly, from 3-5 p.m. at the Veterans Center for Recreation and Education (VCRE)

Email Dr. Lyons at slyons@bwscampus.com if you are interested.

The Veteran Tennis Clinic is a monthly program designed to foster connection, community, and wellness through the sport of tennis. Led by skilled Brentwood Upper School students, this clinic offers Veterans the opportunity to learn, practice, and enjoy tennis in a supportive and welcoming environment. Each session includes warm-up exercises, skill-building drills, and friendly matches tailored to participants of all experience levels.

The goal of the clinic is to provide Veterans with a positive recreational outlet that promotes physical activity and social engagement. By bringing together students and Veterans, the program encourages meaningful intergenerational connections while fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual learning.

Three classes:

• Sundays at the Domiciliary at 3:45 p.m.
• Wednesdays at the Women’s Oasis Program (Building 257) at 10:30 a.m.*
• Fridays  at the Women’s Oasis Program (Building 257) at 10:30 a.m.*

*Must be a member of the Oasis Program to attend these sessions.

Experience the many benefits of yoga in this rejuvenating class, designed to improve both body and mind. Through guided practice, participants will work on enhancing flexibility, building strength, and improving posture. In addition to physical benefits, this class promotes better circulation, pain relief, and overall relaxation. Yoga’s calming techniques can also help reduce stress and improve mental clarity, leaving you feeling more refreshed and centered.

The goal of this class is to provide participants with effective yoga techniques that enhance physical well-being, reduce stress, and promote mental focus, empowering them to feel stronger, more flexible, and balanced in their daily lives.

Storytelling Workshops and Podcasting Sessions!