The Charity: Believe 208
A Mission Born from Loss
After Paul’s death by suicide, his family made a decision: he would not be remembered for how he died — but for how he lived.
They wanted to create something in his memory so that he would not be forgotten — and so that others lost to suicide would not be forgotten either.
There are few public memorials for those who die by suicide. Many served their communities with distinction. Many suffered silently. The foundation was created to honor their lives and acknowledge their service.
The Meaning Behind “Believe 208”
While driving one day and reflecting on Paul’s final letter, a single word appeared on the back of a truck ahead: Believe.
That moment became the catalyst.
Believe that tragedy could be transformed into something constructive.
Believe that awareness could replace silence.
Believe that healing was possible.
Paul’s badge number — 208 — became the name and mission of the foundation.
watch the story
This short documentary shares the origin, growth, and impact of the Believe 208 Foundation — and the mission to transform loss into action.
All proceeds from the charity’s events directly support first responder mental health initiatives.
The First Race
The family organized a community race in Paul’s honor — something he loved to do: run. Believe 208 Transcript
Even if only a small group attended, it would be meaningful.
More than 500 people showed up. Mayors, police chiefs, officers, families, and community members gathered to talk openly about suicide and the lives lost.
A memory table was created, displaying photographs of other officers who had died by suicide — ensuring they would not be forgotten.
That event marked the beginning of a larger movement.
Where the Funds Go
One hundred percent of funds raised are directed back into supporting first responders.
The foundation supports:
Peer support initiatives
Mental health and wellness training
Educational conferences
Resources for first responders and their families
The goal is simple: provide the resources that were not available when Paul needed them most.
Changing the Conversation
Mental health should be treated the same way we treat physical health.
There is no single solution to suicide prevention — but awareness begins with conversation.
The foundation exists to:
Reduce stigma around PTSD and suicide
Encourage open discussion in law enforcement communities
Reinforce that officers and first responders are human beneath the badge
Promote help-seeking behavior
Bring mental health conversations out of the darkness and into the light
Today, officer wellness is increasingly prioritized. Dialogue is more accepted. Stigma is being challenged.
The foundation continues to grow each year — raising both funding and awareness.
The Impact
The family has witnessed firsthand the impact of providing support to first responders navigating trauma and mental health challenges.
What began as a small memorial event has evolved into a sustained effort to support wellness, reduce silence, and create space for honest conversations about suicide and PTSD.
Paul’s life is honored not through silence — but through action.
How the Foundation Connects to Beautifully Broken
Beautifully Broken documents the personal journey that emerged from this mission.
The film tells the story.
The foundation continues the work.
Together, they exist to ensure that:
Those lost to suicide are remembered
First responders are supported
Mental health is treated with urgency and dignity
Support the Mission
Learn more about the foundation, attend an event, or bring Beautifully Broken to your community to help continue the conversation around mental health and suicide prevention.