BIG SKY BRAVERY WOULDN'T BE WHAT IT IS TODAY WITHOUT THE HARD WORK AND DEDICATION OF OUR VOLUNTEERS. TO CELEBRATE THEIR GENEROSITY & INTRODUCE YOU TO SOME INCREDIBLE INDIVIDUALS, WE INVITE YOU TO READ OUR MONTHLY VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT!

This month’s volunteer: Shawn Hertz

I have been a part of Big Sky Bravery since the very beginning when Josh invited me to be on the board. I served as Chairman from 2015-2019. One of my favorite memories is when I not only met Josh but the first meeting in my office when he shared his incredible idea with me. 

In the beginning, our sole goal was to provide a week of decompression for active-duty Special Operations Forces. Now, years later, and over the many Task Forces I’ve participated in, it has been amazing to witness how much our programs change the hearts of these individuals. As the week progresses, the baggage they carry begins to peel off, only to be replaced with friendship, trust, and empathy. For us, a better understanding of the toll their jobs entail. 

My father taught me that if you cut down a tree and plant 10 more, you’ll never run out of trees. I carry that ideal into BSB. I get so much back from these men and have made several close friendships over the years. If I gained a friend, then I’ll make damn sure BSB is still around for the possibility for others to have the same experiences! 

Outside of Big Sky Bravery, I am the Senior Vice President of Investments at Stifel. 

Both my wife Meg and I are fourth-generation Montanans, and we’re on our 35th year of marriage. We raised the 5th generation and are now enjoying watching the 6th grow up. When I’m not with my family or volunteering for BSB, you’ll find me on the back of a horse, helping neighbors move cattle across land that hasn’t changed in the past 100 years. This is where I find my restoration. More than once, I’ve found myself in a situation in the backcountry with no communication with the outside world, just me and my horse and no one to help. It’s the willingness to keep going out there, even when faced with big obstacles, which reminds me of the challenges Big Sky Bravery has gone through to continue growing. Before I call it a day, I ask myself, “Can I advance the Big Sky Bravery flag a little further tomorrow?” The answer is always “Yes.”