Our Mission After Prevention

Every day, organizations across America work to prevent veteran suicide.

Our work begins where prevention ends.

When a veteran dies by suicide, a family is suddenly left to navigate overwhelming grief, unexpected expenses, and a future they never imagined. In those first hours and days, practical help can mean everything.

Once A Soldier exists for those moments.

A planned gift costs nothing today, yet your legacy can continue providing immediate financial assistance, practical guidance, and compassionate support for veteran families for generations to come.

Your greatest gift may be one you never see.

Years from now, because of a decision you make today, another family may hear the words:

“You’re not alone.”

Ways to Leave Your Legacy

Include Once A Soldier in Your Will

The simplest and most common planned gift. Leave a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, the remainder of your estate, or specific property.

Retirement Accounts

Name Once A Soldier as a beneficiary of your IRA, 401(k), 403(b), or other retirement account.

Life Insurance

Name Once A Soldier as a beneficiary of an existing policy or transfer ownership.

Appreciated Securities

Stocks, mutual funds, and other appreciated investments may maximize both your impact and potential tax advantages.

Real Estate & Property

Real estate, land, partnership interests, and other valuable assets may become part of your legacy.

Charitable Trusts

Your attorney or financial advisor can help determine whether a charitable trust is appropriate for your family.

Suggested Bequest Language

“I give and bequeath to Once A Soldier, Inc., a Florida nonprofit corporation, Federal Tax Identification Number 82-2792018, the sum of $________ (or _______% of my estate, or the residue of my estate) to be used in support of the charitable mission of Once A Soldier, Inc., as determined by its Board of Directors.”

Once A Soldier Founder David Barbush speaking at the Duval Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America

A Personal Promise

When I founded Once A Soldier, I never imagined how many families would call us during the worst day of their lives.

Some need help paying for cremation. Some don’t know what benefits remain. Many simply need someone who understands what they’re going through.

Every planned gift helps ensure that when another family reaches out for help, someone will answer the phone.

If you’re considering remembering Once A Soldier in your estate plans, thank you. It is one of the greatest expressions of trust our organization can receive, and we promise to honor that trust with compassion, integrity, and careful stewardship.

David Barbush
Founder & CEO

Let's Start the Conversation

If you or your attorney would like to discuss a legacy gift, I’d be honored to speak with you personally. There is never any obligation, and every conversation is completely confidential.

David Barbush
Founder & CEO
dave@onceasoldier.org
(904) 477-9995

Once A Soldier, Inc.
143 Elm Creek Drive
St. Augustine, FL 32092
EIN: 82-2792018

This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, tax, or financial advice. Please consult your professional advisors before making estate planning decisions.