Robin White | Volunteer Spotlight
“I hope others remember that I saw them - not just for the job they do, but for the person they are, and who they want to be...that as a volunteer, I gave them unconditional love and space to feel hope, possibility and a path forward.”
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?
1 and 1/2 years.
What made you want to get involved as a volunteer?
I not only have a family member in the SOF community, but I also have had a genuine love of country and the men and women who protect it. I never served in the military myself, so the next best thing I could do is to support those who serve, especially the SOF community my family member is in. I always knew I'd give back to the military in some way, yet I never found just the right organization that I could get behind. I believe in the power of healing through the outdoors and through human connection. BSB's mission aligned exactly with my own beliefs and values, and therefore, when I heard of BSB, there was no question: I wanted to be involved.
What is a moment of significant impact you have personally experienced since volunteering?
One particular recipient had experienced something so traumatic that she could barely see past the next day... After the 5 days together on the TF, she was able to talk about what happened, feeling safe to share her darkest feelings, which in turn helped her process them. She found hope in healing. She laughed and cried with volunteers and recipients, and ultimately allowed her heart to open and be supported and loved by everyone on the TF. She never thought she would be able to do that - and to see her have that hope and to see her smile between the tears was very powerful.
How has Big Sky Bravery's motto Give More Than You Take influenced your mindset or actions?
BSB's motto has become my standard, almost the expectation I have for myself day to day. Every single day I ask myself "What can I do for others today?" It might be as simple as helping my husband, listening to my son, covering for a co-worker, or simply picking something up at the store for a neighbor. Being of service is a core value of mine and it not only allows me to shift the focus off my own self, but it builds incredible connections with people, and that is ultimately what makes the world a better place.
Do you view anything in a different light - or is there anything you appreciate more deeply - since your time as a volunteer?
I actually have a much deeper appreciation for the SOF community (and all of the military for that matter) - even more so than I did before. I understand at a deeper level the magnitude of sacrifice the SOF make, what heavy burdens they carry, and also how best to lighten the load through support and prayer. It's unimaginable for so many of us to understand the emotional toll their job takes and the things they see that they can't unsee. I've gained a deeper appreciation for my own life, the people in it and the extraordinary experiences that I have had. This appreciation makes me feel capable that I can give my time and my attention to the SOF community, AND actually make an impact.
Where did you grow up and what kind of work fills your days outside of volunteering?
My dad was in the Air Force for over 22 years, so I grew up a military brat, moving all over the place every few years; I was born in Germany and then lived in numerous states, including Maryland, Virginia, Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Colorado; I grew up always adapting to new environments, schools, and challenges. Outside of volunteering, I am a Professional Health and Life Coach, and when I'm not working, you will undoubtedly find me outside swimming, hiking, mtn biking, trail running, fishing, or exploring...and when I'm not outside, I'm inside doing some sort of learning, reading, cooking, or planning when I can go outside next!
What brings you the most joy and purpose in your life?
Helping others reach their potential physically and mentally, and actually feel and believe their true worth.
what do you hope others will remember or carry forward from your contributions as a volunteer?
That I saw them - not for just the job they do, but for the person they are, and who they want to be... that as a volunteer, I gave them unconditional love and space to feel hope, possibility and a path forward.
In closing, what quote or piece of wisdom do you return to when needed, that you can leave us with?
If it is to be, it is up to me.