Veterans Heritage Project (VHP) was founded in 2004 and established as a 501(c)(3) non-profit in 2009. Our mission is to Connect Students with Veterans in order to honor veterans, preserve America's heritage and develop future leaders. VHP’s award-winning after-school and classroom programs provides an enriched, inter-generational experience by connecting middle school, high school and college students from all walks of life with US military veterans from every branch of the service. The project-based learning is aligned with Arizona’s State Standards for College and Career Readiness, is an AZ Department of Education certified Character Education Program, and builds students’ 21st century skills. Having the opportunity for a student to sit face to face and learn directly from a veteran brings history to life. The process of researching history and writing the veterans’ stories for publication helps to foster students' civic pride, understanding of sacrifice and service, accountability, and respect for others - building the character of our next generation of leaders. As students participate in year-round civic activities and host regional community book signing events to honor their veterans, the bonds between the two strengthens, often lasting beyond the life of the program. Students leave VHP prepared for continued academic and professional success, having developed listening, writing, critical thinking, collaboration, and public speaking skills. This process develops patriotism, and creates awareness and appreciation for service and civic engagement, and helps veterans to feel appreciated and connected with the greater community.