Veterans’ Voices Captures Top “Philly Awards” from Nonprofit Connect

Veterans’ Voices magazine captured top honors in the prestigious “Philly Awards”presented by Nonprofit Connect for excellence in marketing, communications and fundraising. The announcement was made at a gala awards ceremony in November 2022.

The magazine published by Veterans Voices Writing Project (VVWP), received a gold award in the Magazine/Newsletter category. In addition, in two overall categories, Veterans’ Voices won gold in Best In-House and Best in Class.

The awards were based on scores earned by entrants in 16 categories.

Nonprofit Connect, based in Kansas City, Mo., lists more than 800 business and individual members. It’s stated mission is to “link the nonprofit community to education, resources and networking so organizations can more effectively achieve their missions.”

Veterans’ Voices magazine has published three issues per year since 1952. Its prose, poetry and visual arts are exclusively by veterans. Its mission is based on the belief that creative expression can serve as a form of therapy, a motivation for sharing life experiences or an outlet for recreation.

VVWP Board President Sheryl Liddle said the awards honored both the organization’s efforts and those of the veterans who create the magazine’s content.

“When Veterans’ Voices received the Gold Philly Award, we were overjoyed that the submissions of our veterans were honored by the nonprofit community of greater Kansas City,” Liddle said.

“However, when Veterans’ Voices was awarded the Best In-House and Best in Class awards, we were all awestruck and elated that people outside our sphere understood what Veterans’ Voices is all about. Awards tend to honor the hard work of people who put things together, and these awards do that. However, these awards also validate the writings and visual art of these veterans who put their hearts into words for the world to see.”

In their scoring comments, judges praised Veterans’ Voices for both its content and its mission.

Among the comments:

  • The mission, content and approach are so poignant.
  • Absolutely love the premise and content in this piece! Veterans creating the content is just phenomenal – very innovative.
  • The concept, content and creation of this publication are so important and well curated. Thank you for doing this vital work!
  • The simplicity of the content allowed for the reader to focus on absorbing the content and really immersing themselves into the stories; I liked the authenticity represented and the close attention given to the target audience.