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: Kristen Carlson

How long have you been volunteering for Big Sky Bravery?

I’ve been a volunteer since January of 2020 when we kicked off the first ever active duty women’s Task Force! Yay! I’m fortunate to have been a part of 3 Task Forces to date, and I hope many more to come.

Why do you volunteer for Big Sky Bravery?

As a spouse to a retired USASOC Operator, my heart will always be tied to the SOF community. Witnessing firsthand not only the admirable and heroic things they do but also the silent struggles and inner battles they carry with them as a result. I volunteer for both the female operator and spouse Task Forces. I am forever in awe of women in the operator role. They are heroes and path pavers for the next generation of women in their profession. Their sacrifices both at home and abroad are unique and beyond praiseworthy, and I will always strive to support them in any way I know how. The spouse Task Forces are near and dear to me.  When my husband would deploy, the moment he would step foot out of our door the world faded away, and nothing else mattered but him coming home. As long as there are still people out there that have to experience what that feels like, I will always raise my hand to support them.

What has been the most impactful moment for you since being involved with Big Sky Bravery?

It’s hard to pick one moment, but I would have to say how strong the bond between volunteers and recipients becomes in such a short amount of time. While each Task Force is unique and special in its own way, they all have one thing in common, which is that they cultivate an environment of women connecting with women which sparks empowerment and the opportunity to heal.

How does our motto give more than you take apply to your life?

I try to look for opportunities where I can be a part of something much bigger than myself.  Big Sky Bravery provides a great avenue for doing just that.

What do you no longer take for granted after spending time with the active-duty SOF community we serve?

My family and how precious and fleeting my time with them is.

What job title do you hold outside of being a Big Sky Bravery volunteer?

Wife, Mom, Principal Data Scientist at Wells Fargo.

Finish this sentence, “When I’m not volunteering with BSB, you’ll find me…”

…spending time with my husband and 2 adorable daughters, ripping around on my mountain bike, hanging at the beach, playing pickleball (outfit included), and dreaming about snowboarding.