SILVER | Philanthropic Campaign of 2017

Area 23 and Military with PTSD

The Speaking Fireworks

Judges loved the creativity, innovation, and commitment behind Area 23's development of specialized headphones for veterans with PTSD. In real time, the headphones convert trauma-inducing firework sounds into statements of gratitude. A prominent neuroscientist endorsed the approach, and 500 vets requested the headphones. A crowd-funding initiative is underway to make free headphones available to every combat vet who wants them.