OUR PROGRAMS
Healing and connection through play
Discover how our programs help Gold Star kids heal, grow, and connect through gaming, mentorship, and community.
Learn more about how each initiative turns play into purpose.
Mentorship
Making a lasting impact—one game at a time. Our mentors guide, encourage, and connect with military kids to help them rebuild confidence and find belonging.
Youth Programs
Level up skills and self-esteem. Our youth programs combine teamwork, fun, and personal growth in a supportive environment built for learning and connection.
Events
Play with purpose. Play casually or compete, make new friends, and celebrate your loved one’s legacy while finding hope and joy through gaming.
Mentorships
Gold Star Gamers is a mission-driven nonprofit dedicated to helping military kids who’ve lost a loved one rediscover hope, healing, confidence, and connection through the power of play.
At the heart of our work is mentorship—pairing kids with military, professional, and college-age gamers who understand the value of teamwork, compassion, and community. These connections give children a sense of belonging, something to look forward to, and a reminder that they are never alone in their journey.
If you’re a gamer who wants to make a difference, we’d love to have you on our team.
Youth Programs
Gold Star Gamers provides a safe, moderated Discord community where military-connected kids and teens ages 6–19 can build friendships, find encouragement, and stay connected through gaming. Designed specifically for Gold Star and surviving military families, the community offers a welcoming environment where members can play together, share experiences, and simply enjoy being kids among peers who understand their journey.
Beyond everyday gaming, members can participate in a variety of clubs and programs centered around shared interests, skill-building, and personal growth. From game nights and creative activities to mentorship opportunities and community events, there are countless ways to get involved. Guided by carefully vetted mentors and community leaders, participants build confidence, strengthen communication and teamwork skills, and develop lasting friendships in a place where they know they belong.
Ready to play, learn, and grow? Join us today.
Events
Whether you enjoy relaxed game nights with friends or the excitement of friendly competition, Gold Star Gamers offers a place where every child can belong.Our community hosts tournaments, special events, seasonal celebrations, and collaborative activities designed to bring military-connected youth together in a safe and supportive environment. Members can team up, challenge themselves, discover new games, and share memorable experiences with others who understand the unique journey of growing up in a Gold Star family.
More than just playing games, these moments create lasting friendships, build confidence, and honor the legacy of loved ones through connection, resilience, and joy. Every match played and every conversation shared is another step toward healing and another reminder that no one has to walk this path alone.
Join our community, make new friends, and discover a place where you can play, connect, and thrive.
Qualifications
Child is between
6 – 18*
*Or upon graduation from high school,
whichever comes later
Parent / Guardian’s
permission to play
Child has lost a parent, guardian, caretaker, or other significant loved one who served in the United States military (including the National Guard, Reserves, and Coast Guard), worked as a first responder (such as law enforcement, fire service, or emergency medical services), or served as a federal employee in a public service capacity.
You and your child can actively participate in our Discord community, clubs, programs, mentorship opportunities, game nights, tournaments, and special events, engaging regularly with fellow members in a safe, supportive, and moderated environment.