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Songwriters 4 Vets brings together 6 Nashville hitmakers together with local favorite Ben Allen to perform their top songs (and share some of the stories behind them). Created to honor military servicemen and servicewomen while delivering high-impact entertainment, 100% of the event proceeds directly benefit the Kevin Popke Foundation, which carries the legacy of Army 1SG Kevin Popke.
What began as a mission to support youth athletics in memory of Popke's dedication to his son has expanded into a broader effort to empower our nation’s heroes. All funds raised through this event will directly support vital veteran-focused charities.

Kevin Popke Foundation

Songwriters 4 Vets

Songwriters 4 Vets × KPF


<p class="wp-block-paragraph">At the Kevin Popke Foundation, we are a dedicated team of volunteers united by a single purpose: turning our convictions into action to help others.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Our foundation was established to honor the life, ideals, and values of our namesake, Donald “Kevin” Popke, who was tragically killed by a distracted driver in 2016. Known affectionately as “50” to his friends, Kevin dedicated his entire adult life to serving our country. He retired as a US Army First Sergeant and continued his service as a Department of Defense contractor. We created this foundation to ensure that Kevin&#8217;s spirit of service and dedication to his fellow service members lives on.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What We Do</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Our mission is simple: <em>Helping our Veterans.</em></p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We recognize the immense sacrifices made by the men and women who have defended our Nation, and we are committed to giving back to them. The Kevin Popke Foundation supports Veteran-focused charities in the Tampa Bay area and throughout other cities in Florida. By providing targeted grants, we help fund the vital resources and support systems necessary to meet the needs of our local Veterans.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What you can do</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Show up for a Saturday event, share a story from the community, or point us toward an organization that deserves a closer look. Small actions keep Kevin’s mission moving.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">How to help</h3>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">Volunteer with the team, nominate a Veteran-focused charity for a grant, or give — every gift becomes support in Kevin’s name.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Together We Can</h2>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">We believe that when we come together, we can make a profound difference in the lives of those who have served. Whether you are interested in joining our amazing team of volunteers or supporting our mission through a donation, your contribution helps us improve conditions for Veterans and keep Kevin’s legacy alive.</p>



<p class="wp-block-paragraph">To learn more about our upcoming events, get in touch, or find out how you can help, please explore our website. Together, we can.</p>



At the Kevin Popke Foundation, we are a dedicated team of volunteers united by a single purpose: turning our convictions into action to help others.

Honoring a Legacy, Helping Our Veterans

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As a teen, Kevin enlisted in the U.S. Army where he served his country for 22 years before retiring as a First Sergeant (1SG).



During his military career, he was assigned to the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment as Jump Master for the Airborne Rangers. Kevin took immense pride in not only keeping his soldiers safe but providing real mentorship.

In addition to his decorated military career, Kevin raised 4 lovely children with Michelle, his wife of 27 years. Among family and friends, he was known for his fondness for cigars, wine, and motorcycle rides.

Following his time in the army, Kevin would become a contractor in civilian tech for organizations like the U.S. Department of Defense.

Kevin adored his community and would advocate not only for veterans but also the families of military service members.



When he wasn't providing a beacon of hope, he was involved with the Brandon High School wrestling team where he took wrestlers under his continued mentorship.

Kevin's roots go back to Sandusky, Ohio, where he was born in October 1959.



In 2016, Kevin was killed when he was struck by a distracted driver. For 10 years, his friends, family, and community have served the Kevin Popke Foundation in his name.

Southeastern Florida Honor Flight · Aug 2026 · $10,000

My Warrior&#8217;s Place · Mar 2025 · $5,000

Freedom Riding Academy · Apr 2024 · $5,000

The Stano Foundation · Dec 2023 · $5,000

Wounded Warriors Abilities Ranch · Dec 2023 · $10,000

My Warrior&#8217;s Place · Nov 2023 · $10,000

Other Side of the Dunes · Sep 2018 · $11,000

Wounded Warriors Abilities Ranch · Sep 2018 · $20,000

Grants

Crowd gathered at a Kevin Popke Foundation fundraising event

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Performer smiling on stage with a microphone and guitar

Events hero — Songwriters for Vets performer on stage

Group photo taken at the Other Side of the Dunes KPF event

Other Side of the Dunes

Grantee and recipient of a beach wheelchair, provided for free by the Kevin Popke Foundation

Other Side of the Dunes logo, Kevin Popke Foundation grantee

The origin of KPF is Kevin’s pulled pork

BBQ tents at a Kevin Popke Foundation outdoor fundraiser

Follow our grantees, volunteers, and events on the KPF blog, where we post regular news and updates to keep you informed.

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Honoring a Legacy, Helping Our Veterans

There's more than one way to make a difference.