Cathie Lechareas is a well-respected figure in the veteran advocacy community, especially in Washington, D.C., where she has dedicated much of her career to supporting homeless veterans and raising awareness about their needs. A U.S. Navy veteran herself, Cathie has contributed to various organizations that aim to improve the lives of veterans. Her efforts include organizing monthly forums on veteran legislation and working closely with the Southeast Veterans Service Center, which notably opened a facility for homeless women veterans in 2008.

Through her experiences working with veterans, Cathie discovered the profound healing power of music and music therapy, which led her to establish the Center for American Military Music Opportunities (CAMMO). CAMMO is a non-profit organization committed to helping service members, veterans, and military families through music. The organization provides music-based therapeutic programming, offers training in music industry careers, and fosters a safe, supportive environment for veterans to heal, collaborate, and express themselves.

Under Cathie’s leadership, CAMMO has gained significant recognition. CAMMO artists have performed at high-profile events such as America’s Got Talent, the White House, the Vice President’s residence, the Queen Latifah Show, and the Invictus Games. In addition to these performances, CAMMO hosts songwriting workshops and collaborates with notable artists like Khalid, Johnny Black, and DQ Quinones to support music therapy and artist development across the United States.

CAMMO’s mission is focused on supporting military families by offering both therapeutic music services and career development opportunities in the music industry. The organization provides access to recording spaces, workshops, and mentorship programs, creating pathways for veterans to pursue careers in music while also offering emotional and mental healing through the power of music.

Additionally, CAMMO plays an important role in educating service members, veterans, and their families about music industry career opportunities. This includes training in areas like:

• Artist Development: CAMMO helps veterans and their families cultivate their musical talents, including songwriting, performance, production, and music marketing. Through mentorship and industry connections, CAMMO supports the growth of sustainable music careers for veterans.
• Music Industry Management: CAMMO also educates individuals on the business side of the music industry, including music management, event coordination, and marketing. Veterans can gain valuable skills that prepare them for various roles within the music business.

By equipping veterans and their families with the skills needed for success in the music industry, CAMMO provides opportunities for professional growth, allowing them to transition into meaningful careers in the industry and build lasting careers while also contributing positively to the entertainment world.