The Purple Heart Foundation

What The Purple Heart Foundation does

The Purple Heart Foundation, legally the Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1957 and headquartered in Annandale, Virginia (EIN 59-3184919). It serves Purple Heart recipients, honorably discharged veterans, and their families through a portfolio of direct-assistance programs. Core services include Critical Assistance Grants of up to $3,000 paid directly to creditors for past-due rent, utilities, and emergency expenses; academic scholarships for Purple Heart recipients and their descendants; mental health and TBI/PTSD resources delivered through a network of vetted partners; vocational training and career placement; the Battle Buddies companion animal program launching Spring 2026; and a Veteran Resource Center acting as a referral hub across these verticals. The foundation has a 16-member Board of Directors chaired by James M. Blaylock with Stephen L. Ruckman as CEO.

Name

The Purple Heart Foundation

Legal name

Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation

Website

https://purpleheartfoundation.org

Company type

Private

Founded year

1957

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

The Purple Heart Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1957 that serves Purple Heart recipients, honorably discharged veterans, and their families through Critical Assistance Grants, scholarships, mental health resources, vocational training, and the Battle Buddies companion animal program.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Veteran Support Services

NAICS

Grantmaking Foundations (813211), Voluntary Health Organizations (813212), Other Grantmaking and Giving Services (813219)

SIC

Services-Social Services (8300), Services-Educational Services (8200), Services-Health Services (8000)

akta.pro primary industry

Social Justice & Human Rights Grantmaking Foundations (BPAGAKAN)

akta.pro secondary industry

Scholarship & Fellowship Foundations and Trusts (EDADAHAC)

Keywords

• Veteran support services
• Nonprofit fundraising
• Emergency financial grants
• Veteran scholarships
• Charitable donations

Headquarters

HQ city

Annandale

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Supply Chain, Technology or R&D, Others

Revenue model

1. Financial Donations: Direct financial donations from individuals including one-time gifts, monthly recurring donations, and memorial gifts. Donors can direct funds to specific pillars (Stability, Healing, Companionship, Opportunity) or the general fund.
2. Vehicle Donation Program: National vehicle donation program accepting cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, and aircraft. Vehicles are picked up free of charge and sold at auction, with proceeds supporting veteran programs. In FY2025, car donations totaled $2,252,346 with expenses of $955,309, netting $1,297,037.
3. Clothing and Household Donations: Clothing and household item donations through Go Green Drop partnership. Items are sold through local thrift shops with revenue supporting the foundation. Includes free home pickup and concierge services for large donations.
4. Real Estate Donations: Property donations that are converted to cash to fund veteran programs and services.
5. Elev8 Round-Up Program: Partnership with Elev8 allowing donors to round up credit/debit card purchases, with the difference donated to the foundation. Micro-donations that accumulate over time.
6. BillSaver Partnership: Bill negotiation service where BillSaver shares a portion of negotiated savings with the foundation when veterans save on bills.
7. Give Credit: Credit card processing partnership where Give Credit donates 25% of revenue from businesses that choose the Purple Heart Foundation as their charity.
8. Planned Giving/Bequests: Bequests and wills allowing donors to include the foundation in estate planning.
9. Charitable Payraise: Retirement planning tool where donors can reduce taxes and increase after-tax cash flow through charitable giving, with proceeds benefiting the foundation.
10. Event Fundraising: Registration fees and sponsorships from events including the Purple Heart Open golf tournament, running events, and other fundraising activities.
11. Corporate Sponsorships: Corporate sponsorships for the Honor Their Service 250 campaign at various levels ($50,000 Presenting, $25,000 Pillar, $10,000 Honor, $5,000 Service sponsorships).
12. Thrift Store Operations: Retail thrift store locations in Mesa and Apache Junction, Arizona selling donated clothing, furniture, and household items.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels7 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

The Purple Heart Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that delivers direct assistance programs and resources to combat-wounded Purple Heart recipients, honorably discharged veterans, and their families. Core offerings include Critical Assistance Grants (up to $3,000 paid directly to creditors), academic scholarships, mental health and TBI/PTSD resources, vocational training, and the Battle Buddies companion animal program. Funding is raised through direct donations, vehicle donations, clothing donations, thrift stores, corporate sponsorships, and fundraising events.

Product overview

The Purple Heart Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving combat-wounded and honorably discharged veterans since 1957. Rather than a unified software product, the organization offers a portfolio of direct assistance programs and services. Core offerings include Critical Assistance Grants (up to $3,000 for emergency financial needs), Academic Scholarships for Purple Heart recipients and their families, the Battle Buddies companion animal program (launching 2026), and a comprehensive Veteran Resource Center connecting veterans to mental health resources, vocational training, and career support. The organization raises funds through vehicle donations, clothing donations, and the Elev8 card-linked round-up program. Key partnerships include VetClaims.AI (AI-powered VA claims assistance), various mental health organizations, career development providers (FASTPORT, NPower, Vets to Drones), and financial services partners (Give Credit, BillSaver, Charitable Payraise). The Honor Their Service 250 campaign supports four pillars: Stability, Healing, Companionship, and Opportunity.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Battle Buddies: Companion animal program launching in 2026 that will provide veterans with access to animal companions at no charge through partnership with Sponsor-A-Pet.
• Honor Their Service 250
• Veteran Resource Center

Products and services

• Critical Assistance Grants Emergency financial assistance grants of up to $3,000 paid directly to creditors for veterans facing urgent needs such as past-due rent, utility bills, mortgage payments, or emergency car repairs. One lifetime grant per veteran.
• Academic Scholarships Scholarships for Purple Heart recipients and their direct descendants (spouses, children, grandchildren) covering tuition, room and board, books, and other higher education expenses. Paid directly to educational institutions.
• Battle Buddies Companion Animal Program Companion animal program providing veterans access to animal companions at no charge through partnership with Sponsor-A-Pet. Designed to address isolation and provide emotional support.
• Veteran Resource Center Online hub connecting veterans and their families with resources for financial stability, mental health support, companion animals, and vocational/scholarship opportunities. Curated directory of trusted partners.
• Mental Health Resources Connections to vetted mental health providers, peer support, therapy animals, and wellness tools for PTSD, TBI, depression, anxiety, addiction, and other mental health challenges through trusted veteran-led partners.
• Vocational Training and Career Support Programs connecting veterans to technical certifications, apprenticeship programs, job placement, and career development through partnerships with organizations like FASTPORT, NPower, Vets to Drones, Carolina Trade Academy, and Owners in Honor.
• Vehicle Donation Program National vehicle donation program accepting cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, and aircraft. Free pickup in all 50 states with tax-deductible donations supporting veteran programs. In FY2025, vehicle donations grossed $2,252,346.
• Clothing Donation Program Clothing and household goods donation program through GreenDrop partnership. Free pickup service with proceeds supporting veteran programs through thrift shop sales.
• Robotic Companion Pets Lifelike robotic companion pets for veterans unable to care for live animals due to physical, financial, or housing limitations. Offered through partnership with Capital Caring Health.
• Elev8 Round-Up Program Card-linked round-up program that rounds debit/credit card purchases to the next dollar, with the difference donated automatically to the Purple Heart Foundation.
• VetClaims.AI Partnership Service AI-powered platform leveraging artificial intelligence to help veterans navigate VA disability claims processes, providing tailored guidance, claim strategies, and VA disability calculators. Partners report average increase of $694,000 in lifetime earnings through successful claims.

Quantifiable outcome

• In FY2025, netted $1,297,037 from vehicle donations that supported veteran programs
• +2 more outcomes

Named customers3 records

Segments3 records

Ideal customer profiles5 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Partnerships

30 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• VetClaims.AIcoreTechnology or IntegrationAI-powered platform created by a Purple Heart recipient that helps veterans navigate VA disability claims. Uses artificial intelligence to analyze data and provide tailored guidance to strengthen claims. Reports average increase of $694,000 in lifetime earnings for clients through successful claims.
• VMHA (Veteran Mental Health Assessment)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerHelps veterans who have been incorrectly denied, underrated, or are filing for the first time receive the mental health benefits they deserve. Provides high-quality evidence for VA mental health claims to help veterans win claims and increase quality of life.
• Owners In HonorcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerRevolutionary program creating pathways for veterans and their families to purchase existing small businesses and successfully operate them until a planned exit. Veteran-owned and led nonprofit that creates legacy-worthy outcomes beyond military service.
• Last PatrolminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerConnects veteran volunteers to veterans in hospice care so their last patrol isn't alone. Cooperates with medical providers of hospice care to connect volunteers with patients.
• Hives for HeroesminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerNational nonprofit focusing on sustainability, conservation, and providing healthy transition from service through beekeeping mentorship and training. Veterans gain skills supporting mental well-being and honeybee conservation.
• Vets to DronescoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerVeteran-owned program helping military veterans transition into careers in the drone industry through FREE training, Part 107 certification, and job placement opportunities. Prepares veterans for high-demand drone careers in infrastructure inspection, emergency response, media, and construction.
• Washington Tattoo (Rudiments to Recovery)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerVeteran-led music therapy initiative using drumming, rhythm, and sound to support veterans coping with PTSD, anxiety, depression, and emotional trauma. Helps improve focus, reduce stress, and foster emotional release.
• CannabreezeminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorU.S. Navy veteran-owned, vertically integrated seed-to-sale hemp company in Loudoun County, Virginia. Offers education and access to CBD wellness products with veteran discounts for pain, anxiety, and sleep support.
• Cell Phones for SoldierscoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerNational nonprofit committed to keeping military members and veterans connected with loved ones since 2004. Provides free communication services and emergency funding through their Evergreen Program. Prioritizes low-income and at-risk veterans.
• FASTPORTcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOffers veterans seeking new career opportunities a vast employer network. Provides resume support, interview prep, direct referrals to hiring managers, access to exclusive job opportunities, and apprenticeship programs with guaranteed paychecks for various trades.
• NPowercoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerNational nonprofit offering free tech training and career development for veterans and military spouses. Programs in IT support, cybersecurity, and cloud computing with certifications in 10-16 weeks. Provides live instructor-led training, mentorship, and job placement.
• Veterans Yoga ProjectminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerNonprofit dedicated to supporting recovery and resilience among veterans, active-duty military, and families through mindful movement and breath. Trauma-informed yoga and meditation practices available in person and online for managing stress, improving sleep, easing chronic pain.
• Brain Injury ServicescoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerOffers free, specialized support to help Veterans in Northern Virginia navigate challenges of living with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Also offers a national referral network for broader support.
• Capital Caring HealthminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSells robotic companion pets for veterans with memory issues or cognitive decline. Makes a donation to the foundation for every robotic pet sold. Partners in robotic pets initiative for veterans who cannot care for live animals.
• Charitable PayraiseminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorProprietary ROQS Method app allows donors to review retirement and giving plans to maximize after-tax cash flow and increase impact to charity. Helps reduce taxes, increase cash flow, and create living legacy through charitable giving.
• Give CreditminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorCredit card processing with No-Cost Donations program. Donates 25% of revenue earned through processing business payments to the charity of choice, including Purple Heart Foundation.
• BillSaverminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPayment negotiation company that works to negotiate better rates on bills (cable, internet, cell phone, electricity, home security). Splits savings with customers and passes portion of proceeds to Purple Heart Foundation.
• Elev8coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRound-up donation program allowing debit/credit card users to round up purchases to the next dollar with the difference donated to Purple Heart. Micro-donations that accumulate over time without additional effort from donors.
• Go Green DropcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorClothing and household donation partner providing free home pickup service for donated items. Sells items through thrift shops with proceeds donated to foundation. Provides concierge service for large volume donations.
• 4 Kings Racing (Kevin Thomas Jr.)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerPartnership with Kevin Thomas Jr. and 4 Kings Racing for the 2026 USAC NOS Energy Drink Midget National Championship season.
• Crown Royal and RealtreeminorGTM or Marketing PartnerCrown Royal and Realtree joined forces to support the foundation, helping provide critical assistance to veterans and families facing urgent needs after service.
• Hiking for HopeminorGTM or Marketing PartnerPartnership turning miles walked in honor of nation's heroes into meaningful support for veterans.
• SJF Graphic Arts (Steven J. Felicetti)minorGTM or Marketing PartnerRetired Army veteran artist creates original artwork reflecting service, sacrifice, patriotism, and remembrance. Provides artwork for foundation use.
• Carolina Trade AcademycoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerProvides flexible, practical training for skilled trades with nationally recognized HVAC certification. Veterans invited to apply for free scholarship to Online HVAC Technician Program with virtual reality training and guided exercises.
• Sunbeam 369minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerVeteran recruitment into funeral service industry helping veterans find career paths.
• Military FaresminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOffers active military members, veterans, and their families travel and lodging options at reduced prices.
• Veteran Mortgage SolutionsminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAll-veteran loan officer team providing mortgage products including Conventional & VA loans, FHA loans, USDA loans, and IRRRL refinance options. Helps veterans with home buying or refinancing.
• Rugged Pilot (Shirt Store USA)minorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPurple Heart Foundation branded merchandise through Shirt Store USA. Purchase of t-shirts supports foundation mission.
• SafeGunLockminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRevolutionary mechanical gun lock providing superior security compared to traditional gun lock methods.
• Mind Spa Denver (Inner Armor Program)minorStrategic or Co-development PartnerAlternative PTSD and TBI healing solution offering the Inner Armor Program built specifically for veterans who have tried traditional therapy and medications without success.

Scale indicators5 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Fisher House Foundation: Major military/veteran nonprofit providing housing and support to military families during medical crises. Comparable donor base (patriotic Americans), grantmaking-style programs, and corporate partnership model.
• Gary Sinise Foundation: Veteran-focused foundation providing financial grants, mental health programs, and entertainment to wounded veterans and first responders. Highly comparable grantmaking model, celebrity-driven fundraising, and direct-service program approach.
• Wounded Warrior Project: One of the largest and most visible veteran-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofits in the U.S., providing direct programs, mental health support, and financial assistance to wounded veterans - directly comparable mission, donor base, and programmatic model.
• Help Heal Veterans: Veteran nonprofit providing therapeutic arts/crafts programs for hospitalized and recovering veterans. Comparable direct-service grantmaking model to wounded veterans, smaller scale.
• Semper Fi & America's Fund: Veteran-focused nonprofit providing immediate financial assistance, critical care, and transition support to wounded/ill service members. Direct programmatic overlap with Purple Heart Foundation's Critical Assistance Grants model.
• Disabled American Veterans (DAV): Veteran service organization providing direct benefits assistance, transportation, and grants to disabled veterans. Comparable in serving combat-disabled veterans through a chapter-based model with national fundraising infrastructure.
• Military Order of the Purple Heart: The parent veterans service organization for Purple Heart recipients, of which the Purple Heart Foundation is the official fundraising arm. Same beneficiary base, complementary service offerings, and overlapping board representation.
• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Foundation: Foundational arm of the VFW providing scholarships, disaster relief, and military family support. Comparable donor model (veteran-affiliated community), scholarship programs, and national chapter-driven fundraising.

Emerging players

• Team Rubicon: Veteran-led nonprofit deploying veteran volunteers in disaster response and community service. Comparable donor demographic (veteran-affiliated givers), similar brand positioning around veteran identity, though different programmatic focus.

Broad incumbents

• USO: Large, established military nonprofit with broader scope (active-duty support, family programming, entertainment). Comparable donor base and corporate sponsorship structure but serves broader military community beyond wounded veterans.

Market position

Strengths1 record

Weaknesses1 record

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xtwitter.com/PurpleHeartFound
• Facebookfacebook.com/MOPHSF
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/military-order-of-the-purple-heart-service-foundation-inc

Compliance1 record

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles9 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about The Purple Heart Foundation