VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Growing up, Sandra Grim, 30th Medical Operations Squadron physical evaluation board liaison officer, had many mentors who guided her through her childhood. She credited her teachers and neighbors for keeping her on the right path. In her attempt to “pay it forward,” she became a mentor with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America program.
Grim was recently recognized in January as the “Big of the Year” for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Barbara County, an accolade she didn’t expect to receive.
“I was surprised and honored at the same time,” said Grim. “I chose to become a Big Sister in 1995 because of the many mentors who helped me through my childhood. I feel that there are so many mentors that deserve this, so to be chosen for something that I enjoy doing is amazing.”
While Grim didn’t expect to be recognized, her peers have noticed her hard work for a long time.
“I was not surprised in the least with her win,” said Capt. Marquis Smith, 30th Medical Support Squadron TRICARE operations and patient admin flight commander. “Mrs. Grim is a dedicated worker in every capacity. She has an amazing drive, work ethic, and will give 100 percent to anything she commits to.”
Grim has spent the last 22 years as a mentor with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, motivating and inspiring the next generation.
“It’s really important to me,” said Grim. “If I can just change one kid and put them on the right path, that’s one less problem we have in the future.”
For future mentors looking to get involved, Grim provided sage words of advice.
“My message to other mentors, whether they be Big Brother Big Sister or everyday people trying to help, is find something that you have a passion for,” said Grim. “With this passion, it will be a fun experience for all involved. Time is the greatest gift you can give to someone.”