The Veteran Resources App Revolutionizing Support for Defenders and Their Families
Navigating the transition from military or first responder service to civilian life can be overwhelming. The number of available support organizations, nonprofits, discounts, and programs is massive—but figuring out where to go and how to access those tools is a challenge all on its own. That’s where Defenders Gateway, a powerful veteran resources app, steps in to transform the way veterans and first responders find help, connection, and community.
Cheri OtzenbergerIn this compelling episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we sit down with Cheri Otzenberger, the Director of Member Relations at Defenders Gateway. Her insights reveal how the app goes beyond simple listings to create a living, breathing network that genuinely supports defenders and their families.
A Veteran Resources App Born from Compassion
Cheri's journey with the organization began over four years ago when she heard founder Carol Watanabe speak at an event. Carol had already been making waves with her charity, Little Patriots Embraced, which has served over 100,000 military children across the country. But she saw a greater need emerging in the wider defender community—one that couldn’t be ignored.
“Carol was hearing the same message over and over again,” Cheri explained. “‘There are tons of resources out there, but we don’t know how to find them.’ That gap had to be filled.”
Thus, Defenders Gateway was born—a veteran resources app designed to simplify access to everything from job listings and mental health services to family activities and business discounts.
Why a Veteran Resources App is Crucial in Today’s World
The military and first responder communities face immense pressure, both during and after service. From deployment-related family strain to the post-service struggle of reintegration and identity, the need for easily accessible support is more important than ever.
Unfortunately, much of that support remains fragmented. Veterans and first responders often spend hours searching through different websites, Facebook groups, and outdated directories—only to come up empty or overwhelmed.
Defenders Gateway solves this problem by combining vetted organizations, services, and resources into one centralized, easy-to-use app available on both iOS and Android.
A Secure, Streamlined User Experience
Here’s how the veteran resources app works:
Download the App – Available via the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Select Your Role – Choose whether you’re military, a veteran, a first responder, a family member, or a supporter/business.
ID Verification – For defenders, a quick verification process ensures the platform remains exclusive and safe.
Explore Resources – Users can search by category, location, zip code, or keyword to discover resources near them or nationally.
Connect and Save – From nonprofit services to local discounts and job boards, defenders can quickly find what they need and mark their favorites.
Cheri emphasized the app’s privacy measures: once the ID is verified, it’s permanently deleted—no sensitive data is stored. That creates a sense of trust, essential for users who may be hesitant to seek help.
What’s Inside the Defenders Gateway Veteran Resources App?
The Defenders Gateway app is much more than a directory. It’s a full-fledged ecosystem built around the needs of the defender community. Here’s a look at what users will find:
🔍 Categorized Resource Navigation
Military & Veterans
First Responders
Chaplains
Families & Spouses
Nonprofit Organizations
Podcasts (including VET S.O.S.)
Kids Corner
Mental Health & Trauma Recovery
Education & Career Transition
🎯 Geolocation-Based Results
The app uses geolocation to show defenders resources, businesses, and opportunities close to them, including veteran-friendly restaurants, mental health providers, and more.
💬 Secure Chat Feature
Users can privately connect with other defenders—one-on-one or in groups—through the app’s built-in secure messaging system.
🧰 Opportunities Hub
From job postings to scholarships and apprenticeships, this section continues to grow as the app connects with employers and training partners eager to hire from the defender community.
📲 Version 3 Updates
The newly launched Version 3 of the app offers enhanced search capabilities, new UI improvements, and banner notifications to promote urgent news, events, or opportunities directly to users.
For Veterans and First Responders: Free for Life
One of the most appealing aspects of the veteran resources app is its accessibility—there is no cost for veterans, military service members, first responders, or their families to use the app.
“This was built for them,” Cheri noted. “They’ve done so much for us—it’s time we do something meaningful for them.”
Even nonprofit organizations can be listed for free, as long as they are properly vetted. The only request from the Defenders Gateway team is that these organizations help spread the word to their audiences in return.
For Businesses: A Meaningful Way to Give Back
Businesses interested in supporting the defender community can do so by joining the app as a verified partner. Small businesses pay just $500/year, while veteran-owned businesses receive a 50% discount at $250/year.
Membership includes:
Listing in the app’s business directory
Geo-based visibility to local defenders
Banner ad capabilities (for events, discounts, or news)
Access to a values-driven audience that’s deeply loyal
A portion of every business membership also goes toward supporting nonprofit partners—making this a mission-forward investment with real-world impact.
More Than a Tool—A Growing Community
Perhaps the most powerful part of the Defenders Gateway mission is its focus on community. While many platforms are built for transactions or clicks, this veteran resources app is built for real connection.
With secure chat features, user-friendly categories, and curated nonprofit partnerships, the app is more than a convenience—it’s a lifeline for someone navigating the fog of transition or seeking connection during difficult times.
“They might not be ready to talk to someone,” Cheri said. “But if they open the app and see there’s something available for what they’re going through—that can change everything.”
How to Get Started
Veterans, first responders, and military families can start benefiting from the Defenders Gateway app today:
📲 Download the App:
Search “Defenders Gateway” in the App Store or Google Play.
🌐 Visit the Website:
www.defenders-gateway.com
📣 Nonprofits and Businesses:
Want to be included? Contact Cheri directly at cheri@defenders-gateway.com or visit the website to learn more about partnership options.
Join the Movement with VET S.O.S.
At VET S.O.S., we’re proud to support and collaborate with organizations like Defenders Gateway who are truly doing the work to uplift the military and first responder communities.
🎧 Catch the Full Podcast Episode on Spotify:
open.spotify.com/show/3PXqxzptNSgBuSXpgDpDPM
📺 Watch on YouTube:
youtube.com/@vetsospodcast
🌐 More Info:
www.vetsospodcast.com
Final Thoughts
The challenges veterans and first responders face are complex—but the solutions don’t have to be. The Defenders Gateway veteran resources app is making it easier than ever for those who serve to access what they need, when they need it, all in one place.
If you or someone you know is navigating life after service, this app isn’t just another download—it’s a lifeline, built by people who care deeply about the community they serve.
