Mark Esponda | Volunteer Spotlight
“As I learned more about Big Sky Bravery’s values and the meaningful impact it has on recipients and their families, I quickly realized it was an organization I wanted to be a part of.”
Big Sky Bravery is shaped by the volunteers who show up with humility, integrity, and a heart of service. We want to share their stories so others can feel the meaning of this mission through the people who make it possible.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN a VOLUNTEer with BIG SKY BRAVERY?
Three years.
What made you want to get involved as a volunteer?
Through my longtime friend Dustin Barber, a former Big Sky Bravery board member, I was introduced to the organization and had the opportunity to meet Josh McCain and Jeremy Keller. As I learned more about Big Sky Bravery's values and the meaningful impact it has on recipients and their families, I quickly realized it was an organization I wanted to be a part of.
What is a moment of significant impact you have personally experienced since volunteering?
A few moments of significant impact I have experienced while volunteering with Big Sky Bravery have been the opportunities to reconnect with recipients when they return to Montana. Seeing them again after their initial visit and continuing those relationships has been incredibly meaningful. It is rewarding to know that the connections made through Big Sky Bravery extend beyond a single event and often develop into lasting friendships. These ongoing relationships highlight the organization's mission of creating meaningful experiences and providing enduring support for our recipients and their families.
How has Big Sky Bravery's motto Give More Than You Take influenced your mindset or actions?
"Give More Than You Take" has reinforced the importance of service to others. It serves as a reminder that meaningful impact comes from investing time, energy, and resources into helping others. The motto encourages me to find ways to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
Do you view anything in a different light - or is there anything you appreciate more deeply - since your time as a volunteer?
Volunteering with Big Sky Bravery and having the honor of spending time with the recipients has had a profound impact on me. It serves as a constant reminder of how blessed I am to have a wonderful life, great friends, and amazing children. It's easy to get caught up in the demands and pace of everyday life, but my involvement with Big Sky Bravery allows me to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the many things I have to be grateful for.
Where did you grow up and what kind of work fills your days outside of volunteering?
I grew up splitting my time between a ranch in Buffalo, Wyoming, and the big-city life of Billings. Outside of volunteering, I am the Vice President of Project Development at Dick Anderson Construction.
What brings you the most joy and purpose in your life?
The thing that brings me the most joy and purpose in life is my children.
What do you hope others will remember or carry forward from your contributions as a volunteer?
We all have the ability to help others. Taking the time to make a positive impact on another person costs nothing. Each of us can find a way to brighten someone’s day and make a difference in their life. I hope everyone remembers to get involved in something they are passionate about and to help others. Small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.
In closing, what quote or piece of wisdom can you leave us with that you return to when needed?
One of my favorite quotes is by James Dean: “Dream as if you will live forever; Live as if you will die today.”