Band Together for Veterans

JSJBF Bands Together to Support Our Vets Through Music

The Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation is proud to expand its “Band Together for Veterans” initiative, evolving from a single event to an ongoing program dedicated to supporting veterans through the power of music. This initiative now includes various fundraising events which will help fund programs for veterans and directly benefit local veterans in need.

Next Event


Band Together for Veterans

November 9, 2024

At D’jais Oceanview Bar & Cafe, 1801 Ocean Ave, Belmar, NJ 07719

Proceeds go to local organizations that support local vets

The 2024 Veteran’s Music Festival is hosted by the New Jersey State Veterans Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by organizations like Horizon NJ Health and Band Together for Veterans. This all-day event, running from 1 PM to 8 PM, features seven blues and rock bands, food, and refreshments. All proceeds will support outdoor therapy programs for veterans, including fishing and equine therapy. Veterans and Active Duty service members attend for free, with tickets priced at $20 for the public.


Proceeds to JSJBF fundraising for veterans will go to local organizations that provide critical services to veterans, including combat-related PTSD treatment, homelessness prevention, and suicide prevention.

A Tradition of Supporting Veterans

“Band Together for Veterans” began in 2016, spearheaded by local musicians Matt D’Esposito, John Fernandez, and Charlie Wuth, in collaboration with the Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation. The inaugural event raised $5,000 for local veteran support programs. Since then, it has grown into a beloved annual tradition, with each year attracting top local, regional, and national musicians who generously donate their time and talents.

This expansion aims to provide ongoing support through music-centered events, workshops, and initiatives to aid veterans in healing, connection, and community reintegration. Music has always been a powerful force for bringing people together, and through this program, we hope to continue serving those who have served our country.

Photo Gallery of Band Together for Veterans

Photographs by John Posada.

Donald "Bootsy" Lewis
This is Donald “Bootsy” Lewis, a vet who we lost to cancer this year.  A Great guy and a great player. He was a member of the Down Range band that opened the event. This band was comprised totally of Veterans, most of whom are struggling with PTSD.
Many more photos on The Incinerators Facebook Page

Upcoming Events and Fundraising Initiatives

Beyond Vet Music Fest, we will be organizing several events throughout the year, each focused on raising funds and awareness for veterans’ needs. These will include live performances, community outreach programs, and specialized workshops to provide direct support to individual veterans and veteran organizations. Check our calendar, read our blog, and follow us on social media (Facebook & Instagram) to stay tuned for more details!

Join JSJBF in Supporting Our Veterans

We invite you to be part of this growing effort to give back to the veterans in our community. Whether you attend our events, volunteer, or donate, your support makes a difference.

This event is produced by The Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation a 501 (C3) Non-Profit organization.