Bobbi Gilbert | Volunteer Spotlight
“I know how much we ask of these individuals and the profound effect a week in Montana can have on their well-being. ”
THIS MONTH’S VOLUNTEER: Bobbi Gilbert
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!
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN VOLUNTEERING FOR BIG SKY BRAVERY
I have been a Big Sky Bravery volunteer since 2022 and have been fortunate to be part of two Task Forces.
WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER FOR BIG SKY BRAVERY?
My husband and I served in the Air Force for 24 years before moving to Big Sky, MT, in 2021. As both a member of the SOF community myself and the wife of a SOF operator, I’ve experienced firsthand the sacrifices these men and women make and the impact on their families. Many of our friends still serve, which keeps me closely connected to the community. I know how much we ask of these individuals and the profound effect a week in Montana can have on their well-being. Volunteering with BSB allows me to continue serving a community that means so much to me, and that opportunity carries deep personal meaning.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST IMPACTFUL MOMENT FOR YOU SINCE BEING INVOLVED WITH BIG SKY BRAVERY?
It’s hard to choose a single moment because there have been so many impactful experiences. What stands out the most is the power of bringing the right people together in the right environment with the right support. I’ve seen incredible friendships form during just 4-5 days of a BSB program because the structure and environment truly foster connection. The SOF lifestyle can often feel isolating, and seeing the bonds that form so quickly reminds me how vital that sense of connection can be. It’s an honor to be part of something that helps provide such meaningful experiences.
HOW DOES OUR MOTTO “GIVE MORE THAN YOU TAKE” APPLY TO YOUR LIFE?
The motto "give more than you take" holds special significance and underscores the importance of selflessness, service, and a deep commitment to something greater than oneself. This philosophy perfectly aligns with the same values I embodied during my active duty time and is one I strive to uphold every time I volunteer with BSB. It's also an opportunity to foster a sense of community and gratitude while showing respect and acknowledgment for the enormous responsibility these quiet professionals carry. I'm very grateful to have an organization like Big Sky Bravery to help deliberately remind me of the importance of giving back and the power of fostering gratitude and community.
WHAT DO YOU NO LONGER TAKE FOR GRANTED AFTER SPENDING TIME WITH THE SOF COMMUNITY WE SERVE?
Having been part of the SOF community myself, I’ve learned to never take time with family and loved ones for granted. Long deployments, missed milestones, and the constant demand for peak performance make those moments even more precious. Watching others navigate the same challenges I once faced has deepened my appreciation for the time I now get to spend with those I care about.
I’ve also developed an even greater respect for the camaraderie that defines the SOF community. It’s a truly unique bond—one of mutual reliance and trust that is very difficult to replicate. Knowing the sacrifices these men and women make every day inspires me to live with purpose and honor their dedication in whatever way I can.
WHAT JOB TITLE DO YOU HOLD OUTSIDE OF BEING A BIG SKY BRAVERY VOLUNTEER?
In addition to volunteering with BSB, I am the HR Director for Black Cape, a software company based in Arlington, VA, that fully supports and understands the incredible impact BSB has on the SOF community.
FINISH THIS SENTENCE, “WHEN I’M NOT VOLUNTEERING WITH BSB, YOU’LL FIND ME…”
When I’m not volunteering with BSB, you’ll find me globetrotting, skiing Big Sky, running (usually poorly) with my Catahoula Leopard Dog, Memphis, cheering on my beloved St. Louis Blues as they chase the Stanley Cup, or—my favorite activity—attending the sports games of my two teenage children.
