Question 1

What is the Red Star Foundation?

Accepted Answer

The Red Star Foundation is an IRS approved 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the Forgotten Families and preventing suicide. Our core focus is to mobilize communities, organizations, and individuals across the nation to combat military, veteran and first responder suicides, and provide critical support to grieving families. We work with communities, donors, and partners to create sustainable impact in areas of need.

Question 2

How can I make a donation?

Accepted Answer

Making a donation is easy! You can donate through: Online: Visit our DONATION PAGE to make a secure online donation. Bank Transfer: We accept bank transfers for larger donations. Please contact us HERE for details. Check or Cash: If you prefer to donate via check or cash, please contact us at HERE for instructions.

Question 3

Is my donation tax deductible?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your donation to the Red Star Foundation is deductible. Our tax exempt number is #99-4402310.

Question 4

How can I support the Red Star Foundation?

Accepted Answer

You can support the Red Star Foundation in several ways: Donate: Your financial contributions help us fund our projects and initiatives. Volunteer: We welcome volunteers to assist with our programs and events. Fundraise: Organize fundraising events to help raise awareness and funds for our cause. Spread the Word: Share our mission and updates with your network to increase visibility.

Question 5

Do I have to be a veteran or first responder?

Accepted Answer

No. Red Star Foundation is meant to be a nationwide community of families and loved ones affected by a suicide. That community will also include other people, support groups and organizations.

Question 6

Does my deceased loved one have to have been in the military or a first responder?

Accepted Answer

No. Our organization is open to anyone who has suffered a loss due to suicide. Or anyone that wants to help support others, spread awareness and prevent suicides.

Question 7

How do I become a volunteer?

Accepted Answer

We are always looking for passionate individuals to join our volunteer team. To become a volunteer, please complete the Volunteer Form, and tell us how you’d like to contribute.

Question 8

What is a Green Star Banner?

Accepted Answer

The Green Star Banner, also called the Green Star Service Banner or Green Star flag, is a symbol promoted by Green Star Families of America to recognize families of veterans who died by suicide after military service. It is a separate initiative from the Red Star Service Banner, created by Red Star Foundation to recognize families of current military, veterans, and first responders who have died by suicide.

The Green Star initiative seeks federal recognition through H.R. 6022, the Sgt. Walter F. Hartnett IV Green Star Veterans Service Act, introduced on November 12, 2025. As introduced, the bill would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to design and designate a flag for the next of kin of veterans who died by suicide on or after September 11, 2001.

Question 9

Did the Green Star legislation come before Red Star's congressional recognition?

Accepted Answer

No. Congressman Jack Bergman, a member on the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, recognized the Red Star Service Banner and Red Star Foundation in the Congressional Record on January 28, 2025. The Green Star bill was introduced approximately nine and a half months later, on November 12, 2025. Red Star's recognition in congressional remarks therefore preceded the introduction of H.R. 6022.

Question 10

Is the Green Star Banner supported by national veterans organizations?

Accepted Answer

No. The Green Star Banner is not supported by any national veterans organization.

By comparison, Red Star Foundation's published legislative materials identify support for the Red Star Service Banner Act from Vietnam Veterans of America, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Disabled American Veterans, Marine Corps League, America's Gold Star Families, Association of the United States Navy, and U.S. First Responders Association. These endorsements demonstrate an established coalition supporting Red Star's recognition effort.

Red Star Foundation also reported 37 cosponsors for H.R. 7815, bringing its total House support to 38 members when sponsor Congressman Jack Bergman is included.

Frequently Asked Questions

No Family should be forgotten