Vets invited to help build Electric Forest, get a free wristband

By Allison Scarbrough. OCP Editor.

GRANT TWP. — An awesome opportunity is being offered to military veterans and active duty military personnel to join the Electric Forest construction crew. In exchange for their work, they will receive a free wristband to attend the gigantic four-day event at the Double JJ Resort dubbed one of the best music festivals in the world.

Veterans may also get a free wristband if they provide a workshop at the Forest.

“The Electric Forces Build Crew is a new opportunity to be of service behind the scenes of the festival and join the Electric Forest community as builders and creators,” states the Electric Forest website. “In collaboration with the IAVA (Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America), Forest HQ is seeking a group of veterans to come together and support Electric Forest build and decor crews in bringing the production to the highest level.”

Applications are due April 19.

“In collaboration with IAVA, the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization representing new veterans and their families, Electric Forces extends an invitation to U.S. military veterans to join the Forest Family.”

The Electric Forces Program, which began last year, was inspired by the stories of Pat and Tim, two young wounded veterans who attended Electric Forest and were deeply moved by the community they found there.The Electric Forces Program was formed as a unique, onsite festival connection where U.S. Military veterans and festival goers share their stories of transformation and community in music, the EF website states.

“In collaboration with the IAVA, a new workshop program invites veterans to share the inspirations and interests that have helped them in their healing process. From yoga to sustainable agriculture, a wide variety of interests are combining to offer opportunities for service and learning to all.”

In exchange for helping build EF, vets will receive compensation; a wristband for the event; a campsite if needed; three meals per day while working; and “a unique work experience in creating art for tens of thousands to enjoy.” Applicants must be either military veterans or active duty military personnel.

Building crew applicants must be available to be onsite at the festival from the morning of Saturday, June 20, through Wednesday, June 24. After which, they are welcome to enjoy the festival, which runs from Thursday, June 25, through Sunday, June 28.

Other requirements include: they must provide their own transportation to the festival site; they must provide their own camping gear or lodging; they must be familiar with basic tools and construction; and they must be comfortable on ladders and with light lifting.

Workshop instructor qualifications include: applicants must be confident presenting in front of a crowd; workshop must not require too much infrastructure – many will be hosted in the Forest; and workshop topic must be accessible to all Electric Forest patrons. Workshop instructors will receive a free wristband and campsite.