⭐ History of the Ocala Preserve Veterans Corporation (TOPVETS)

The Ocala Preserve Veterans Corporation—known proudly as TOPVETS—was created to bring together the veterans of Ocala Preserve in friendship, shared purpose, and community service. What began as a small group of about a dozen neighbors connecting over their shared military background has grown into a thriving organization of over 80 veterans in just five years.

From the beginning, TOPVETS aimed to honor service, support local veterans, and enhance life in the Ocala Preserve community. Over time, the club built strong traditions, impactful fundraising programs, and a visible presence through events such as the Veterans Day Golf Tournament, semi-annual pancake breakfasts, guest speakers, charitable initiatives, and the development of Veterans Park. The journey below shows how TOPVETS grew into what it is today.

📅 TOPVETS Timeline & Growth Story

2021 — Formation, Incorporation & First Steps

TOPVETS began in early 2020 when veterans living in Ocala Preserve started meeting informally to connect, share experiences, and explore ways to support one another. Like many public activities, the global pandemic slowed the club’s initial growth but by 2021 momentum started to build. The strong interest and early momentum quickly led to formal organization.
Key Milestones:

  • About a dozen veterans attended the earliest meetings

  • TOPVETS incorporated on September 10, 2021

  • Recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit on December 13, 2021

  • Initial plans for events, fundraising, and community impact take shape

2022 — Foundation Building & Community Engagement

By 2022, TOPVETS established regular monthly meetings, leadership roles, committees, and a vision for long-term service in Ocala Preserve. Planning began for signature events and ways to support veterans throughout Marion County.
Key Milestones:

  • Monthly meetings and committees officially launched

  • Organizational structure finalized

  • Early discussions begin for a permanent veterans landmark within the community leading to the park’s opening on Veterans’ Day 2022

2023 — Growth, Fundraising & Signature Events

Membership increased steadily throughout 2023 as more veterans joined the club. This was also the year TOPVETS expanded its fundraising and community presence, including building momentum behind its signature annual event.
Key Milestones:

  • Membership continues to grow, passing 50 veterans

  • Planning accelerates for Veterans Park and the Walk of Honor

  • Expansion of fundraising programs, sponsors, and community partnerships

  • Strengthening of the annual Veterans Day Golf Tournament, now involving dozens of volunteers and supporters

2024 — Veterans Park Progress & Community Traditions

In 2024, TOPVETS made major progress on Veterans Park, including the Walk of Honor brick program, park features, and community engagement around the project. Important community traditions also solidified.
Key Milestones:

  • Construction and fundraising for Veterans Park accelerate

  • The Walk of Honor brick program expands

  • Successful Veterans Day events with strong community turnout

  • The semi-annual Pancake Breakfast grows to nearly 200 meals served each time

2025 — Strong Membership, Stewardship & Lasting Impact

By 2025, TOPVETS had grown to over 80 members, becoming one of the most active community organizations in Ocala Preserve. Work continued on park improvements, events, and veteran support efforts throughout the region.
Key Milestones:

  • Continued enhancements to Veterans Park and the Eagle’s Nest area

  • Strong partnership with Honor Flight and Marion County veteran-support programs

  • Ongoing fundraising through events and sponsors

  • Veterans Day Golf Tournament put TOPVETS over $100,000 raised in 7 years, with all proceeds benefiting local veterans

  • TOPVETS maintains strong financial stewardship, active membership, and a welcoming presence for new veterans in the community

🎖️ A Lasting Legacy

From its humble start with a handful of veterans meeting around a table to an 80-member nonprofit organization making real impact across Ocala and Marion County, TOPVETS has grown through dedication, teamwork, and a commitment to service.

With a thriving membership, a beloved Veterans Park, annual events that rally the entire community, and more than $100,000 raised and returned to local veterans, TOPVETS continues to build a legacy of honor, service, and camaraderie. The club’s future is bright, with new veterans joining each year and a strong foundation that will support its mission for generations to come.