My Nonprofit Reviews

My life has been significantly, positively impacted as a result of attending 4 different Big Fish Foundation events.

I was able to learn and discuss leadership qualities at a weekend event. I got to do that with a group of other veterans which only helped to build bonds with them and drive friendships outside of the event. Those friendships have given me a place to relate to others when I am struggling mentally and keep me from a tendency to self isolate.

Even more impactful than than the leadership retreat was attending 2 Diesel Day events. There I learned strategies of resiliency & perseverance. At Diesel Day 1, I was struck with a lesson of “I am so much more capable than I give myself credit for.” At Diesel Day 2 (a year later), I got to put the strategies I learned from the first event to work in an environment where I was expected to think through challenges & do more for myself while having leadership to process through sticking points with expert help. Those lessons have stuck with me and have been engrained in such a way that got me through one of the most stressful times in my life.

I also had the opportunity to serve as a volunteer for the Big Fish Annual Fundraiser. At a time when I was giving my time to help, I was also supported & encouraged myself. I didn’t walk in a share anything about stressful things I was going through. My demeanor was noticed & asked about.

Overall, the thing that overrides each experience with Big Fish is that I have felt seen, genuinely cared for and loved. There hasn’t ever been conditions or parameters around receiving that support. It comes freely & generously in a way I haven’t experienced anywhere of my family.