GOLD STAR RISING
Empowering Gold Star teens through arts enrichment experiences
Heroes Linked's Gold Star Rising program empowers Gold Star teens — the children and siblings of fallen U.S. military service members ages 13 to 18 — through arts enrichment experiences that foster healing, confidence, self-expression, and personal growth. Designed for Gold Star families, the program offers a supportive environment where participants explore storytelling and creativity through filmmaking, theatre, and creative writing.
Gold Star Rising is currently in its pilot phase and is expected to hold a program iteration in summer 2026. The program helps participants build resilience, strengthen communication and leadership skills, and gain confidence through artistic achievement and shared experiences with peers from similar backgrounds.
The Pilot Program: Three Creative Disciplines
The pilot program focuses on three creative disciplines:
Filmmaking — scriptwriting, directing, cinematography, acting, editing, and production.
Theatre — playwriting, acting, directing, stage design, and backstage production roles.
Creative Writing — poetry, prose, spoken word, podcast storytelling, and scriptwriting.
Through workshops and mentorship opportunities, participants engage with professional artists, filmmakers, writers, and theatre professionals who volunteer their expertise to inspire the next generation of creative voices.
Gold Star College Care
As Heroes Linked expands its support for Gold Star families, the organization's Gold Star College Care initiative is being integrated into Gold Star Rising. Previously operated in partnership with another veteran-serving organization, Gold Star College Care helped cover educational expenses not covered by tuition or housing assistance, including laptops, course materials, transportation, and other academic necessities. Integrating the initiative into Gold Star Rising creates a more comprehensive program that supports both personal development and educational success.
Partnerships
Heroes Linked is building partnerships with arts organizations, veteran-serving nonprofits, creative professionals, and studios nationwide to bring these experiences to Gold Star families, particularly in major metropolitan and military-connected communities.
Honor the legacy of a fallen hero.
Help the children of those who gave their lives protecting us afford the cost of higher education.
How to apply.
Eligibility
All spouses and children who have lost a family member in the line of military duty are eligible to apply for a grant.
Timeline
We have partnered with Children of Fallen Patriots (CFP), a fellow 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, to fulfill this program. To apply, click on the button below to be taken to the CFP website.