Today we’d like to introduce you to Carol Watanabe
Hi Carol, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I come from a patriotic family background. My father, uncle, and grandfather served our country. In 2004
I felt strongly that God had a mission for me, to serve the families of our military, specifically their children. I was 52 years young at the time and had decided to retire my marketing company of 18 years.
I put together a group of people and decided we would form a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Amazingly I woke up with the name, Little Patriots Embraced.
Our focus was to serve the children of active military families. Our board developed several programs that would help us achieve our goal, to give these children support and recognition for serving too!
I have remained active in the organization, adding additional programs for the children. We are volunteers giving our time and talents. In 2024 our organization celebrated our 20th year, having served 100,000 military children since 2004!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. We have been fortunate that every volunteer throughout the 20 years has had a heart for serving the children. I found that when you are on a mission of love your volunteers feel it and give all they can.
But, as we know volunteers come they and go, especially if you have a history of 20 years. Those transitions can be hard. We love every volunteer!
For me personally, I’ve been in for 20 years. I love service. I don’t believe there is a better way to build strong character. I strongly believe that when you are in the service of others, you are in the service of God. What better way could I spend my life!
Raising the funds to provide our programs and keep our lights on has been our biggest challenge. As of 2025 our lights remain on and our programs continue. You might call that a blessing!
Sometimes challenges become blessings! One year, just days before Christmas, we had no funds remaining to help this young family through our Family Emergency Fund. Their middle child was battling cancer. They needed help with toys which we did provide, but they were losing their home off base because of financial challenges. Just the day before we closed for the holiday, in walked our mailman with an unexpected donation from a stranger! We sent out a wire that saved this family’s home. Again a testament to service, dedication, prayer and miracles!
We have managed to continue our programs even through the COVID shutdown! I think our longevity says something great for our dedication to the mission!
We’ve been impressed with Defenders Gateway, Inc., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Beyond Little Patriots Embraced amazing mission I also am founder and CEO of
Defenders Gateway, Inc. a St. Louis based company that created the Defenders Gateway App. It is a technology company with one specific purpose and mission.
Defenders Gateway App is exclusively built for our nation’s Defenders. Active military, veterans, first responders, families of the fallen, and all of their family members.
The app is available on both Apple Store and Google play store. It is free for all of our nation’s Defenders and their Family members. The app is a national resource hub that carries important resources and information, and other fun stuff! It lists businesses that honor and support our members, job boards, job opportunities, business opportunities, retail discounts and incentives, health & wellness listings, a kids corner and much more. Businesses that honor our military and first responders get listed on the app. We call them our Business Supporter Members.
The Defenders Gateway App was designed and developed in honor and support of America’s Heroes.
Check out our website at
www.DefendersGateway.com
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
It takes a Patriot to embark on the journey’s I am on, both Little Patriots Embraced and Defenders Gateway.
I have been told I possess first strong faith, and excellent listening skills for answers. Along with that, tenacity,
perseverance and a willingness to work hard, and to sacrifice when needed.
If I were to describe myself…
I have a great love and respect for our nation’s Military and all First Responders who put their lives on the line for me, and for you every day.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Karl Lund, LPE Volunteer Photographer
Michael B Smith, LPE Board member and Volunteer Photographer
Defenders Gateway Inc.
All photos received approvals for release.
No contracts exist.
