QRF Up: A New Era of Veteran Crisis Support Starts With One Red Button
For veterans and first responders, life after service often comes with silent battles. From post-traumatic stress to isolation and depression, the transition into civilian life can feel overwhelming. What many need most is not just a lifeline—but a human connection. That’s where QRF Up comes in, delivering a revolutionary approach to veteran crisis support through real-time, peer-based intervention and technology.
In a recent episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, Kayla Milan, Fundraising Director for QRF Up, joined hosts John and Keith to talk about how this fast-growing nonprofit is transforming how we approach crisis response for veterans and first responders.
Kayla Milan - Fundraising DirectorWhat Is QRF Up and Why Is It Needed?
QRF Up stands for Quick Reaction Force Up, and at its core, it is a veteran crisis support system built around a mobile app that facilitates immediate help for those in mental health emergencies. The platform was designed with simplicity in mind—a big red button on the app initiates the process. With just one tap, users are connected to a licensed therapist who begins to assess the situation. If necessary, a trained QRF responder—often a fellow veteran—is dispatched to the user’s exact location within a 100-mile radius.
Kayla emphasized the human element:
“A lot of these veterans just need someone to talk to. A brother or sister who knows what they’re going through. We provide that.”
It’s this peer-to-peer model that sets QRF Up apart from other solutions. The organization offers more than just a digital lifeline; it brings in-person, community-based veteran crisis support directly to the individual, bridging the often too-wide gap between reaching out and receiving help.
The Power of Showing Up
One of the most impactful parts of the conversation came from Keith, who spoke on the emotional weight of offering help in person.
“One promise can make all the difference. When someone says, ‘I’m on my way,’ it creates a moment of hope. That promise is powerful.”
This sense of immediate connection and support is something that most crisis services lack. While many organizations provide call centers or text-based support, QRF Up goes the extra mile—literally—by dispatching real people to physically support those in need. This boots-on-the-ground model is one of the most innovative aspects of their approach to veteran crisis support.
Pilot Success and National Expansion
QRF Up conducted its pilot program in Minnesota in 2023. The results were so encouraging that the organization is now preparing for a nationwide launch on Memorial Day 2025.
To cover all 50 states, they calculated that they would need a minimum of 109 responders per state, with more in larger areas like Texas. To date, QRF Up has built a network of over 223 partner organizations, including VFW posts and other veteran-serving nonprofits, to help with recruitment and outreach.
“All of our responders are volunteers,” said Kayla. “People who believe in the mission and know this epidemic has to stop.”
Veteran Crisis Support Beyond the Crisis
Another crucial aspect of QRF Up’s model is its long-term support partnerships. The app doesn’t just provide intervention in the moment; it connects users to alternative healing experiences and mental wellness programs based on their interests and needs.
Among these partnerships are:
Horses Helping Heroes – Equine therapy for emotional healing.
All-American Heroes Foundation – “Throttle therapy” via snowmobiling and outdoor retreats.
Spiritual Journey Retreats – Mind-body-soul healing experiences.
Counseling Services – For both veterans and their families dealing with relationship or reintegration challenges.
This multi-faceted approach helps veterans rebuild a sense of purpose and community—both essential elements of sustained veteran crisis support.
From Federal Stress to Fulfilling Purpose: Kayla’s Story
Kayla Milan’s journey into the world of veteran crisis support is deeply personal. As a military spouse—her husband served in both the Marine Corps and the Army—she understands the toll military life can take on families. Before joining QRF Up, she worked as a USPS manager for 11 years, where the stress became too much to bear.
After stepping away from federal work, she started volunteering for QRF Up by handling their social media. It wasn’t long before she realized her passion for event coordination and community building could make a bigger impact.
“I love talking to people, hearing their stories, and bringing communities together,” Kayla shared. “My joy is cooking—and if I can bring people together around food and healing, even better.”
The App: Built for Simplicity, Powered by Tech
The QRF Up app is intentionally simple. In moments of distress, cognitive functioning is often impaired. The founders knew that an app with too many options or forms could be a barrier to getting help.
So, they created an interface that’s hard to miss: a big red button. Press it, and help is on the way.
The app is available on:
Apple Store
Google Play
Garmin & Apple Watch devices
With GPS accuracy, Google Street View integration, and even the ability to recognize building exteriors, QRF responders are able to locate users with incredible precision.
For those who don’t use smartphones or prefer alternative contact methods, the support line 515-318-3371 is available via call or WhatsApp—an important feature in maintaining accessibility across various user preferences.
Anonymity and Control for Every Veteran
Understanding the sensitivity around asking for help, QRF Up ensures that users can remain anonymous. There’s no need to provide personal information if they’re not comfortable. There’s also a toggle switch allowing users to opt in or out of first responder involvement.
Only about 7% of pilot crisis calls required law enforcement, proving that peer-led veteran crisis support is not only effective but also preferred by the community.
Looking Ahead: Growth Beyond Veterans
While the organization’s immediate focus is the Memorial Day 2025 national launch, Kayla also shared a long-term vision. Within 10 years, QRF Up hopes to develop a for-profit version of the app for civilians, using the profits to fund the nonprofit mission that supports veterans and first responders.
This strategy would allow the organization to sustain and expand its operations while continuing to provide free veteran crisis support nationwide.
Support the Mission: How You Can Get Involved
Whether you're a veteran, a family member, a mental health professional, or someone who simply cares—there are many ways to support QRF Up:
Download the App – Available on all major platforms
Call or Text – 515-318-3371 for immediate help
Become a Responder – Volunteer to be a lifeline for someone in your area
Donate or Partner – Support the mission through sponsorship or partnership
Follow QRF Up & VET S.O.S. – Help spread the word via social media and podcasts
“You might be good now,” Keith said, “but that could change tomorrow. Having the app is just one way to be ready—for yourself or someone else.”
Final Thoughts: Veteran Crisis Support That Works
QRF Up is more than just an app—it’s a movement. It’s veteran crisis support that’s fast, compassionate, and rooted in community. With one red button, a life can be saved. With one promise—“I’m on my way”—hope can be restored.
