Dear Friend,

I just want to say thank you.

Because of you, a veteran who feels alone is reminded that someone cares. That matters more than I can fully express.

So many of our heroes come home carrying wounds no one can see: PTSD, depression, anger, sleepless nights, isolation. For some, every single day feels like a battle. Tragically, an estimated 20 veterans and one active-duty service member die by suicide each day. The truth is, they don’t want their lives to end — they simply want the pain to stop.

We work every day to remind them that coming home does not mean fighting alone.

There is hope. Sometimes hope begins with something very small and very powerful:

“I can do anything for one day. One day can turn into a lifetime.”

One day of holding on.

One day of reaching out.

One day of choosing to stay.

Because of your kindness, those “one days” happen more often. Because of you, courage is rebuilt. Because of you, hope is alive and growing.

We are deeply grateful for your generosity and for the heart you have for our veterans and their families.

With gratitude and strength,

Josephine M. Dirksen, President

Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt organization. Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN): 46-1256122. No goods or services were provided in exchange for this contribution. This email serves as your official donation receipt.

Sergeant Colton Levi Derr Foundation

We Can - We Will - Never Quit

Active campaigns

Gallantly Forward Gala 2026

Past campaigns

Veterans Recovery Concert