Serving Our Veterans Through Music: A Tune for Every Tale
Listen to episode 27 of the MomTalk Maryland podcast, “Serving Our Veterans Through Music: A Tune for Every Tale”
MOMTALK MARYLAND | EPISODE 27
A silent room filled with veterans in wheelchairs, a first note from an old wartime song, and suddenly everything changes—eyes brighten, stories spill out, and the past feels close enough to touch. We sit down with Kassie from Voices of Vets to unpack how live, era-specific music reshapes memory, mood, and dignity for those who served, from World War II to Vietnam and beyond.
Kassie takes us from a single July 4 performance to a growing nonprofit with nearly 200 musicians, now bringing free concerts to veteran homes, VA hospitals, and community events across states. She explains why song choice must match a veteran’s formative years, how research on music and memory aligns with what she sees daily, and the small design decisions that make a big difference—flowers during Let Me Call You Sweetheart, branch flags for safe service pride, and sing-alongs tailored to cognitive ability. We also explore the addition of dance, where a ballerina on pointe can hush a bustling hall and simple chair routines get everyone moving.
The stories stay with you: a man who hadn’t eaten asking for a milkshake when a prom song reaches him; a veteran holding his phone aloft so his wife in another facility can listen; grumpy mornings softened by Connie Francis and familiar refrains. Beneath it all is a truth we feel in our bones—music is a universal language, and human connection is not optional. This conversation champions arts in elder care, protects music for kids, and shows how one thoughtful performance can become true care.
Kassandra “Kassie” Sandacz
Founder & CEO, Voices of Vets, Inc.
Kassandra Sandacz is the Founder and CEO of Voices of Vets, Inc., a national nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for veterans through live music. Since founding the organization in 2016, Kassie has led Voices of Vets in presenting live performances across the country—each featuring music carefully selected from the veterans’ era to spark memory, joy, and connection.
Under her leadership, Voices of Vets has grown to include nearly 200 professional musicians and a committed Board of Directors, creating a sustainable organization that partners with veteran homes, hospitals, and sponsors nationwide. The organization’s mission is rooted in the belief that music can heal wounds the eyes cannot see, evoke preserved memories, and foster meaningful engagement for those who have served.
In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Kassie is an accomplished Learning and Development executive with a Master’s in Mathematics Education and advanced certifications in analytics and instructional design. She applies her analytical and creative expertise to strengthen Voices of Vets’ programs, partnerships, and lasting impact.
Follow and Support Voices of Vets
Website:
🌐 www.voicesofvets.com
Social Media:
📘 Facebook: facebook.com/voicesofvets
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/voicesofvets
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/voices-of-vets
▶️ YouTube: youtube.com/@voicesofvets
Donate & Support Our Mission:
💖 Help us bring live music to veterans nationwide.
Click here to make a secure donation → Donate
Email:
📧 info@voicesofvets.com
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