The New Front Line: How Philanthropy and Technology Are Reshaping Veteran Recovery

STAMFORD, CT – January 14, 2026 – While the battles of yesterday may be over for many veterans, new struggles often begin at home. Addressing the complex physical and psychological wounds of service requires more than traditional care—it demands innovation. National nonprofit SoldierStrong has placed itself at the vanguard of this effort, and this week, it recognized the key figures fueling its mission by announcing the recipients of its 2025 Commitment to Service Award.

Philanthropists Mark Gottwald and Shari Yates were named as individual co-recipients, honored for their significant material support that directly enables the deployment of life-altering medical technologies to veterans. They are joined by Patriot Mobile, which received the 2025 Corporate Commitment to Service Award, highlighting a growing coalition of private citizens and businesses dedicated to elevating veteran healthcare.

The Architects of Impact

The Commitment to Service Award celebrates individuals whose contributions create a ripple effect of positive change. According to SoldierStrong, honorees are selected for their inspirational leadership and commitment to championing medical advancements for those injured in service. Mark Gottwald, part of a family with a deep history in business and philanthropy, and Shari Yates represent a class of donors whose support is tangible and transformative.

“We remain in awe of patriots like Mark Gottwald and Shari Yates who demonstrate reverence to our nation’s heroes through continued and conscious acts of kindness,” said Dr. Chris Meek, Co-Founder and Chairman of SoldierStrong, in a statement. He extended heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the organization and the veterans it serves for their role in uplifting the nonprofit's efforts.

This support is not abstract. It directly translates into funding for SoldierStrong’s flagship programs, which have delivered over $7.3 million in advanced medical technology to Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities and individuals since 2013. The contributions from Gottwald and Yates help place cutting-edge tools into the hands of those who need them most, inspiring others to join the cause and ensuring the nation’s heroes are not forgotten.

Beyond Traditional Care: Technology-Driven Healing

SoldierStrong’s unique impact stems from its focus on two revolutionary technologies: the SoldierSuit and the BraveMind virtual reality system. These are not incremental improvements but paradigm shifts in rehabilitation and mental health treatment.

The SoldierSuit is a wearable robotic exoskeleton, a piece of science fiction made real. For veterans with paralysis due to spinal cord injuries, strokes, or traumatic brain injuries, it offers the chance to stand and walk again. The organization partners with leading manufacturers like Ekso Bionics to provide devices such as the Ekso Indego Personal, a lightweight, modular suit that users can often operate independently. To date, 32 of these suits have been donated, restoring not just mobility but also a profound sense of dignity and independence. Testimonials from veterans highlight the ability to perform daily tasks, look others in the eye, and regain a sense of self that was lost with their injury.

Equally transformative is BraveMind, a VR system designed to treat Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS). Developed at the University of Southern California's Institute for Creative Technologies, BraveMind uses virtual reality exposure therapy to help veterans process traumatic memories in a controlled, clinical environment. A therapist can guide a veteran through one of 14 customizable virtual worlds—replicating scenarios from Iraq and Afghanistan—and adjust sensory inputs like sounds, vibrations, and even smells to facilitate healing. Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness, with many veterans showing a meaningful reduction in PTSD symptoms. Crucially, studies show a high preference for VR therapy over traditional methods, suggesting it can reach individuals who might otherwise avoid treatment. With 31 BraveMind systems now deployed in VA facilities, SoldierStrong is tackling the invisible wounds of war head-on.

A Foundation of Trust and Transparency

In the crowded field of nonprofits, effectiveness and transparency are paramount. SoldierStrong has built a reputation for both, earning top marks from independent charity evaluators. The organization holds a Four-Star rating from Charity Navigator, with a score of 96 out of 100. This high rating is bolstered by a perfect 100% score in the “Impact & Measurement” category, indicating a clear, evidence-based connection between its spending and positive outcomes for veterans.

Financial records further solidify this trust. With a program expense ratio of 86.57%, the vast majority of donations go directly to its mission rather than administrative overhead. As a registered 501(c)(3) organization with a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, SoldierStrong operates with a level of accountability that gives donors confidence their contributions are being stewarded responsibly. This financial integrity is the bedrock that allows the organization to effectively partner with both individual philanthropists and corporate sponsors.

Inspiring a Culture of Commitment

The recognition of Patriot Mobile with the Corporate Commitment to Service Award underscores the vital role businesses play in this ecosystem. The company, which identifies as “America’s only Christian, conservative wireless provider,” dedicates a portion of its revenue to causes aligned with its values, with military veterans being a key pillar. CEO Glenn Story accepted the award in November, affirming the company's commitment to ensuring veterans receive the best possible care.

By publicly honoring supporters, SoldierStrong not only shows gratitude but also builds a broader movement. The list of past recipients—including WWE Inc., S&P Global, FOX News anchor Martha MacCallum, and Lieutenant General (Ret.) Patricia D. Horoho, the 43rd Surgeon General of the U.S. Army—demonstrates a diverse and powerful coalition dedicated to the cause. This annual celebration serves as a powerful call to action, encouraging other leaders and organizations across the country to keep veteran welfare top of mind.

The collaboration between private philanthropy, corporate social responsibility, and nonprofit innovation is creating a new standard of care. As the VA itself increasingly integrates robotics and VR into its treatment protocols, the pioneering work of SoldierStrong and its supporters is proving to be not just helpful, but essential in defining the future of veteran rehabilitation. Through these concerted efforts, the promise to serve those who have served is being fulfilled one step, and one healed mind, at a time.