Today we’d like to introduce you to Calista Flores.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I first got involved with BIG Love as a student volunteer, helping out at one of their family holiday events. I was immediately inspired by the care and support the organization provides—not just during the holidays, but throughout the entire year. Seeing how every family’s needs, big or small, were met with compassion and urgency made me realize I wanted to be part of that work.
That experience led me to become an intern from 2023 to 2024, where I gained firsthand experience in how the organization operates behind the scenes. I learned the importance of attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and building strong relationships with families and the community. In 2024, I was promoted to Program Director, and I’ve held that role ever since.
As Program Director, I wear many hats. BIG Love serves pediatric cancer families through programs that meet basic needs—like groceries, clothing, and toys—as well as urgent requests such as rent or utility assistance. Families also request a variety of tangible items, from prescription glasses to car seats, beds, birthday party supplies, depending on their circumstances. We also provide end-of-life support, counseling, and support groups for patients, siblings, and parents. My role involves coordinating these programs, managing events, supporting development, and fostering community relationships—all with one goal: supporting families when they need it most!
Everything I do—every program I manage, every event I coordinate, is centered on the patients and families we serve. Hearing the impact of BIG Love daily, both from families and through our team’s work, motivates me to continue creating meaningful, lasting change. Knowing that our work truly makes a difference is what drives me to give my best every single day
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ have definitely faced struggles. One of the challenges I often feel is not doing enough to raise community awareness about the work we do and the families we serve. I’m always thinking about ways we can reach more people so we can have an even greater impact.
Another challenge is dealing with the loss of a patient. Supporting families through pediatric cancer means celebrating victories, but also facing incredibly difficult moments.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m very proud of my ability to build and maintain personal relationships with families, donors, hospital staff, and the broader community. Keeping those relationships strong while consistently providing program resources is challenging, but it’s also what I love most about my role. I believe that this personal approach sets me apart, because everything I do is centered on people. I’m always thinking about how to make each interaction meaningful.
In addition, I’m highly skilled at multitasking, which allows me to manage a variety of responsibilities at once. My days often involve juggling program support, events, community event, and family events, and being able to stay organized and keep everything running smoothly is something I take pride in.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
What I like best about Austin is the sense of community and the people. There’s such a strong culture of collaboration, creativity, and giving back here, which really resonates with the work I do. I also love the diversity, the energy, and the opportunities to connect with others who are passionate about making a difference.
Because of the strong sense of community in Austin, I would love to continue to do more to awareness about BIG Love. Our organization is truly unique, and I want the community to know about the work we do and the impact we make.
If I had to pick something I like least, it would be the traffic and congestion. Like many growing cities, getting around can sometimes be a challenge.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.biglovecancercare.org
- Instagram: @biglovecancercare
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ARJ1G7iUD/?mibextid=wwXIfr
