On July 20, 2026, the iconic Grand Ole Opry became the setting for a powerful celebration of service, sacrifice, and the healing power of the arts.

As America celebrated its 250th anniversary, Challenge America brought together Veterans, active-duty service members, military families, caregivers, artists, volunteers, Impact Alliance Partners, and supporters for Challenge America 250 — A Legacy of Service.

What began as a concert became something much greater: an expression of gratitude, hope, connection, and a shared commitment to ensuring that those who have served our nation never have to face life's challenges alone.

Challenge America was honored to participate in the RISE26 Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, this July, where we shared our work bringing music therapy to Veteran Treatment Courts across the country and connected with justice, treatment, and public health professionals dedicated to improving outcomes for Veterans and justice-involved individuals.

Challenge America Lead Music Therapist Kate Wasserman, MT-BC, presented on the healing power of music, highlighting the evidence-based impact of music therapy for Veterans participating in treatment courts.

Challenge America was honored to bring Singer-Songwriter Austin Edwards to the Tennessee Association of Recovery Court Professionals 2025 Annual Conference in Murfreesboro, TN. 

Austin has devoted his life to serving others—first in the U.S. Air Force and later as a Chief of Police in the Chicagoland area, where he led the Homicide Division and Major Crimes Task Force. His distinguished career in law enforcement earned national recognition in 2011 with both the American Police Hall of Fame Award and the Presidential Award.  Today, Austin channels that same commitment into music, using his voice to heal and inspire. As the 1st Runner-up on Season 15 of America’s Got Talent as part of the duo “Broken Roots,” he now proudly serves as a partner and Veteran Songwriter in Challenge America’s Music Therapy Program.

Houston Cowan, Founder and CEO of Challenge America, speaks at the Tennessee Association of Recovery Court Professionals 2025 Annual Conference in Murfreesboro, TN. Challenge America took part in the General Session Opening Ceremony, delivered a presentation during the Awards Luncheon, served as a Breakout Session sponsor, and exhibited at the conference—highlighting its Creative Arts Therapy programs designed to support Veterans in Veteran Treatment Courts across the country.