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: Tom Boyce

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN VOLUNTEERING FOR BSB?

I’ve been volunteering for Big Sky Bravery for 4 years and am looking forward to joining my 4th TF at the end of the month.

WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER FOR BSB?

I started volunteering for BSB with an invitation, but it’s grown into so much more. I’m in my mid 30’s and as I grow older, everything around me constantly changes. Often, I get wrapped up in the daily grind so much that I lose sight of the importance of what life is supposed to provide. Sure, big, and small successes in family life, friendships, and work are great! But what is my purpose? Or, what gives my life meaning? Both very important questions that I’m constantly searching for the answers to. Volunteering for BSB is one avenue in my life that helps provide both. I volunteer for BSB to give back to those that leave their families for months at a time, for those that fight the battles for the greatest country on earth, and for those that risk it all on the front lines, every day, so that ordinary people, like you and I, can go to bed at night and know that we live in a safe place.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE/MOST IMPACTFUL MOMENT SINCE BEING INVOLVED WITH BSB?

In my time spent with BSB, there have been serval moments that have impacted my life. So many, that it is hard to choose one. The time spent as a group or in pairs, doing the day’s activities, is when you see that most smiles, laughter, and fun. What a great opportunity for these men and women to let their guard down, have fun, and for a few moments, forget about the world as they know it! Then, dinner and the “Question of the night” takes place. This is when the true growth occurs, in my opinion. Conversing about the good, the bad, and the ugly! Who would have thought that people living completely different lives, would have so much in common? The knowledge and advise given during these table talks have been the most impactful moments for me and I believe that most at the table would agree. Strong men, being vulnerable and chatting about the struggles in achieving perfection in all walks of life, is a great way to reset your mind, let go of some stress, and become stronger in everyday life. I’m honored to sit around that table with such great men! SOF and volunteers, alike!

HOW DOES OUR MOTTO: "GIVE MORE THAN YOU TAKE" APPLY TO YOUR LIFE?

The statement, “Give more than you take”, is self-explanatory! If everyone in the world wore this statement on their sleeve, we would live in the most amazing place.

In my eyes, it me means to be selfless in your intentions, lend a hand when someone is in need, and be a positive role model for all that you encounter. The hardest lesson to grasp- You don’t always get something in return! It should be embedded in our human nature to help others who are in need. And, in turn, let others help us when we are in need!

I often have this conversation with my kids when they are feeling upset or mad about something (homework, chores, etc.). I tell them to “Train your brain!” Train it to be more positive and think more positive about all situations.  Let’s be honest, the world is so full of negativity and it’s much easier to put all our focus and energy into things that are not right, or not going well. If you can train your mind to recognize the positives more often than the negatives…. Be careful- you might just change your, or someone else’s life!

After spending time with these guys on TFs and conversing during different BSB events we’ve attended over the years, I no longer take for granted the time I get to spend with my family, friends, and more specifically, my wife and children. It humbles me to think about the sacrifice given by these SOF families and it breaks my heart knowing that not all get to come home after they leave on deployment. I’ve learned to take advantage of the little moments that are easily dismissed or forgotten. Harness each conversation as if it was your last and have meaningful relationships with the people that you love.

WHAT IS YOUR JOB TITLE (OUTSIDE OF BSB)?

Outside of being a BSB volunteer? I’m the owner and manager of a small construction company in Billings, MT called Boyce Built, LLC. We focus on residential new construction and remodels.

FINISH THIS SENTENCE: “WHEN I’M NOT VOLUNTEERING WITH BSB, YOU’LL FIND ME….”

…up in Red Lodge, MT spending time with my family, friends, and our German shepherd. We enjoy skiing, fishing, and boating on Yellowtail Lake!