There are some people who you know you can always rely on when the going gets tough, and Magic Moments recipient Samantha is one of those people. The matriarch of her close-kit family, Samantha is a single mom to two great kids of her own — 17-year-old Wade and 15-year-old Samara — and helped raise her niece and nephew. She’s been an invaluable source of support to her brother Tom, who is grieving the loss of his wife following her death in September. Their childhood wasn’t the easiest, but Samantha could always be counted on back then — and the same is just as true today. 

Always ready to help

Samantha is proud of her Native American heritage and is a staple in the community that many people rely on. She mentors kids on healthy relationships and staying away from drugs and alcohol, and she even created a nonprofit that helps kids obtain Native American regalia so that they can dance and participate in ceremonies. In addition, she works full-time in the domestic violence and sexual assault world, providing a much-needed stable and caring presence for people who are hurting. And if all that weren’t enough, Samantha also hosts a culture-based radio show on KZUM. According to Tom, a typical week for Samantha involves putting in 40 hours supporting survivors of violence, then spending her evenings in the community either helping at-risk kids to connect with their indigenous culture or spending time caring for her elders, running errands and helping with house projects. And in September when Tom lost his beloved wife and needed Samantha the most, she didn’t hesitate to drop everything and show up for him. 

Samantha is no stranger to hardship; she’s even survived a bout of cancer and lives with a brain tumor. But through it all, she’s known for her strength in the face of struggles. Those who know her are impressed by her tenacity, generosity, and kindness. And although she doesn’t hesitate to give to others, she never does anything for herself or asks for support. That’s why her brother Tom was quick to nominate Samantha for a Magic Moment. He believes that this extraordinary woman who is always there for others deserves some special treatment of her own — a sentiment that UBT shares! 

Showing up for Samantha

UBT’s Magic Moments team and our amazing partners are excited to show Samantha and her family some extra love this holiday season. 

We started with some much-needed upgrades around the home, including new beds and a new washer and dryer, and the whole gang got some new clothes and winter gear. Samantha and the kids will also be enjoying some quality time together thanks to a passel of tickets and passes, including family fun activities, sporting events like Lincoln Stars and the Harlem Globetrotters, and tickets to see the Husker basketball and baseball teams play. We rounded out the magic with other hand-selected gifts for each member of the family. 

Samantha, the love and care you give freely to your family and your community is nothing short of awe-inspiring. We hope you enjoy getting some extra magic of your own this year! Wishing you and your family all things merry and bright this holiday season.