CONNECTION SAVES LIVES

LETTERS TO VETS

When veterans feel disconnected—whether from family, friends, or a sense of purpose—they often start believing that nothing will change, that no one understands them, or that they don’t matter. Connection isn’t just about being around people; it’s about feeling seen, valued, and supported.

SEND LETTERS

VOLUNTEER

Explore our flexible volunteer opportunities and discover a way to support our mission that works for you.

SEND LETTERS

Write a letter of encouragement and gratitude to a veteran through our Letters to Vets program.

DONATE

Your donation helps us deliver positive words of hope, encouragement, and gratitude to veterans.

HOW TO SEND LETTERS

One of the strongest protective factors against suicide is a sense of belonging. When veterans receive handwritten letters, they experience connection—even if it’s from someone they’ve never met. Knowing that people care enough to reach out can reinforce their sense of self-worth and provide comfort after leaving the military, which can feel incredibly isolating.

Each month, we proudly donate 600+ letters to veterans at participating VA Medical Centers, ensuring these incredible individuals feel seen, valued, and supported during their PTSD treatment. Every letter is a reminder that their service is appreciated and that they are not alone in their journey.

Guidelines

The focus of these letters is not on their treatment or recovery but on hope, encouragement, and gratitude. Reminding our veterans they are valued, and expressing the unwavering support they have from individuals and communities across the United States.

Below are our guidelines to help you get started:

Write a positive message addressed “Dear Veteran” filled with kindness and gratitude.
Include first names only. Kids may include name, age and/or grade if desired.
NO store-bought or commercially printed cards. We only accept handwritten letters and homemade cards to ensure every note is personal and meaningful.
Do not include any contact information in your letter.
Letters should not be dated or holiday themed.
Please refrain from including religion or politics in your letters as we do not know the views of the recipient.

Feel free to write about yourself, your hobbies, pets, or even share a funny joke. It doesn’t have to be all about military life—just a thoughtful message will make a big impact.

Please Note: These letters are for veterans, not active-duty service members.

Packing Instructions

Properly packaging your letters helps ensure they reach our veterans in great condition and allows our team to organize and send them efficiently.

Single letters are welcome and can be mailed individually.
Do not use individual envelopes for multiple letters.
If you are sending multiple letters, sort your letters or cards by size and secure them with rubber bands.
Place all bundled letters into one box or large envelope for shipping.

Please include your delivery ID# in the return address so that we can track deliveries and ensure letters reach us successfully.

Your Name
Delivery ID#
Address
City, State Zip Code

We can’t thank you enough for your support. Veterans deeply appreciate these letters, and your kindness truly makes a difference in their lives.

Download Resources

Group Letter Writing

Bring your community together to show support for our veterans! Hosting a letter-writing event is a simple yet meaningful way to uplift those in VA medical centers.

Whether you’re with a school, workplace, civic group, military base, or organization, gathering to write letters to vets creates a powerful impact.

It’s easy to get started—all you need is paper, pens, and a little time. Your heartfelt words will remind veterans that they are appreciated and not forgotten.

Small gestures of kindness can profoundly impact mental health. When veterans feel valued and supported, it can alleviate some of the burdens of loneliness and trauma that contribute to mental health struggles.

MAILING ADDRESS

“I am so grateful for the letter and cards I’ve received. They always come on bad days, making them into good days. Thank you!”

Veteran from Kansas

“I work at the Topeka VA program. Michele visits and I can attest to the incredible impact it has had with the veterans. Thank you for sharing with us! You are making a difference.”

Melissa from VA Medical Center

“I am a social worker at the VA and these letters have significantly impacted our veterans in the most positive way.”

Jess from VA Medical Center

“Thank you so much for bringing this amazing gift to our Veterans! We had wonderful feedback from the Veterans and staff. They all felt this was a very powerful experience. We would be thrilled to make Say His Name an ongoing part of our programming.”

Jorrie from VA Medical Center

TESTIMONIALS

“I work in the Topeka VA program. Michele visits and I can contest to the incredible impact it has had with the veterans. Thank you for sharing with us! You are making a difference.”
Melissa from VA

“I am a social worker at the VA and these letters have significantly impacted our veterans in the most positive way.”
Jess from VA Medical Center

“Thank you so much for bringing this amazing gift to our Veterans! We had wonderful feedback from the Veterans and staff. They all felt this was a very powerful experience. We would be thrilled to make Say His Name an ongoing part of our programming.”
Jorrie from VA Medical Center

SUBMIT A TESTIMONIAL

ABOUT US

Dedicated to fostering connection, breaking down mental health stigma, and providing support through emotional support, outreach, and suicide prevention.

Who We Are

We’re just people who care—people who know what it’s like to feel overwhelmed, to struggle with grief, anxiety, or the pain of losing someone to suicide. We’ve been there, and that’s why we do what we do.

We believe no one should go through their hardest moments feeling alone. We might not have all the answers, but we know that kindness and understanding can make a big difference.

What We Do

Why It Matters

Every year, over 6,000 veterans die by suicide in the U.S., a staggering reality that underscores the hidden battles many continue to fight long after their service ends. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, the suicide rate among veterans remains significantly higher than that of the general population. For every veteran lost, countless others struggle in silence, carrying the weight of war, trauma, and transition.

The sense of isolation that comes with PTSD, depression, and survivor’s guilt can be overwhelming. But research shows that connection saves lives—having a support system, even a single person who reaches out, can be a lifeline. No one should have to fight these battles alone. Ensuring veterans feel seen, heard, and valued is more than just support—it’s a responsibility.

Dylan's Story

The Say His Name Foundation was created to honor the life of Sgt. Dylan Joseph Holley who died tragically from suicide on September 17, 2023.

Dylan was a veteran who served 10 years in the United States military. First, in the Marine Corps as a 1371 Combat Engineer then, as a Paratrooper in the Army's 82nd Airborne Division. He served his country with pride, giving of himself as he did throughout his entire life. A warrior soul whose presence was felt by all who knew him.

"Some cultures believe we die two deaths. Physical death being the first. The second, when there is no one left who remembers your name. So, we ask, that when you recount Dylan's epic journey, see his face, picture his smile, and say his name." - Uncle Joe

His love for his family was evident in everything he did, from his deep affection for his daughters, his loyalty to his wife, and the unwavering support he provided his fellow soldiers. His goofy personality brought laughter and light to those around him, and his loss is deeply felt by all who knew him.

Dylan’s legacy is one of selfless service, camaraderie, and genuine kindness, qualities that continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to have him in their lives.

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