Big Sky Bravery

09/08/2026

“Spending time with these incredible women, hearing their stories, and building friendships has shown me that sometimes you go in thinking you’re there to give, only to realize you’re the one receiving the greater gift.” - Katie Callinan

Big Sky Bravery is built on the heart and grit of our volunteers - the unsung heroes behind every life we impact. Our monthly Volunteer Spotlight honors their selfless dedication and gives you a chance to meet the remarkable people who help make our mission possible.

Learn more about Katie's story and why she volunteers for BSB on the blog: https://www.bigskybravery.org/bsb-blog/katie-callinan

09/06/2026

“I didn't know what to expect going into TF180. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed getting to know the BSB team and my coworkers in a way I never thought I would.

The whole experience was amazing, and my soul feels lighter even days after leaving Montana.

What a special place. My favorite memory was going to the rodeo. It brought me back to precious childhood memories I had almost forgotten and reminded me of the quality of great people.

The entire BSB experience has uplifted me in ways I can't fully explain and gave me hope I didn't think I could find.

I couldn't thank everyone who makes BSB possible enough, but from my family and me, thank you.”

-TF180 Recipient

See the full recap: https://www.bigskybravery.org/bsb-blog/tf180-big-sky

09/04/2026

From battlefields to Montana rivers.

Where the mission changes, the noise fades, and the wild does what it does best.

This is Big Sky Bravery.

09/03/2026

“Our trip captured the spirit of the mountains and provided my family with a truly unforgettable time. For me, I was able to take a vacation, something I haven't done in years, while including my family for the first time. To see my boys get on a ski lift, look up at the mountains, and now still hearing them talk about their trip is irreplaceable.

My wife was able to see firsthand the support that Big Sky Bravery and its donors have provided. We were able to be parents to our kids instead of managing logistics.

I wouldn't have changed a thing on the entire trip. Again, thank you!!”

-2026 Summer Alumni Recipient

Want to get involved and give back? Visit us at www.bigskybravery.org!

09/02/2026

"We probably took more family photos this week than we have in the last two years combined. Not because we suddenly decided to take more pictures, but because we finally had the opportunity." -Family Task Force 44 Recipients

"We probably took more family photos this week than we have in the ...

09/01/2026

“To everyone at Big Sky Bravery,

There are some gifts that are impossible to measure, and what Big Sky Bravery gave our family is one of them.

As a military family, it feels like the biggest sacrifice the family makes is time together. Ten deployments have meant several years apart, missed milestones, and seasons where duty came before family. While we have always been grateful for the opportunity to serve, those years also left little room to simply be together, to grow as a family, to slow down, and to enjoy each other without the demands of military life constantly pulling us in different directions.

Because of BSB, we experienced something that was far more meaningful than a vacation. We were given the gift of uninterrupted time together.
For one incredible week, we weren't thinking about schedules, work, or the responsibilities waiting for us back home. We were fully present with one another. We witnessed our three boys seeing and doing things for the first time as a family of 5 and that has rarely happened over the past 10 years. We laughed more than we have in a long time and celebrated a birthday as a whole family which has happened so rarely.

My husband and I have visited Montana before, but this experience was entirely different. For the first time in what feels like a very long time, we weren't navigating deployments or preparing for a next chapter. We were simply a family, making memories together.

The greatest gift wasn't found in any single moment, but in a feeling that returned to our home long before we ever unpacked our bags, which are still not fully unpacked. This week together felt light and happy and showed us what it feels like to slow down, to be present, and to enjoy one another. Those are memories and lessons that will stay with our family forever.

Thank you for this opportunity. Your kindness created space for true connection and joy. Things that can often be difficult to find after years of separation.

We will always be grateful for BSB. Thank you for helping us rediscover something priceless: the simple joy of being together.”

-Family Task Force 43 Recipients

08/31/2026

"This allows us to recover and go home whole again." - Active Duty SOF Recipient

"This allows us to recover and go home whole again." - Active Duty ...

08/28/2026

“After completing a BSB Task Force, I could not wait to get my family out to Montana to experience the beauty and adventure. This was a once-in-a-lifetime trip for our family that would not have been possible without BSB. My kids are still talking about our “Cowboy Trip” and asking when we are going to another rodeo. My wife and I had time to reconnect, and overall our family was able to slow down and enjoy each other’s company with some amazing people and scenery. This trip came at a critical time for our family to provide peace, serenity, and fun during the often chaotic pace of life in special operations service. We are thankful and remain committed to serving this country as a family.” - Alumni Recipient

See the full recap on our blog: https://www.bigskybravery.org/bsb-blog/alumni-july-26

08/27/2026

They arrive in Montana often knowing little more than each other’s names. They leave with something much harder to put into words.

“I came in not knowing you. I’m leaving with a genuine sense that you’re all people I can count on, not just from the week, but beyond it. That’s not something I say lightly.” -SOF Recipient

This is what a week with Big Sky Bravery can create: time to decompress, connection with those who understand, and relationships that extend far beyond Montana.

They arrive in Montana often knowing little more than each other’s ...

08/19/2026

"As a military family for over 24 years, we are no strangers to the demands and sacrifices that come with this way of life. It was especially moving and emotional for us to be on the receiving end of such extraordinary generosity. Knowing that others care enough to donate their time, money, and services to create this experience for military families is both humbling and deeply meaningful. We left Montana feeling appreciated and beyond blessed.

To everyone who played a part in making this unforgettable week possible, thank you."

-Family Task Force 42 Recipients

See the full recap here: https://www.bigskybravery.org/bsb-blog/family-task-force-42-big-sky-mt