Christine Haba
Deputy Director Hi, I'm Christine Haba (she/her/hers), I am Filipina American and have lived in central Nebraska since I was three years old. I like to claim both the Philippines and the Cornhusker state as home. I have an awesome husband named Shawn and together we have four teenagers/young adults, a Great Dane named Kevin, and a suspicious orange cat named Otis. We live on an acreage outside of Trumbull and spend most of our time trying to find more time to do all the things we want to do!
There is nothing I love more than connecting with others and cultivating strong communities! I come from an extensive background in adult education where I was integral in coordinating English as a Second Language and GED® classes across 25 counties. I originally started as a volunteer coordinator in Hastings and became so inspired by the work that I received both my bachelor's and master's degrees so I could move up. I served as assistant director for 3 years before coming to BBBS where I assisted in the supervision of 40+ staff and federal grants. It was a fast-paced job with a wonderful team of teachers and support staff. My work in adult education further inspired me to volunteer my time to multiple organizations that prioritize underserved populations. Aside from being on a few boards of directors, I actually first discovered BBBS as a VOICE Bigger Big and also a Big for a little 2nd grader. The time I spent mentoring youth helped me discover a lot about myself and continues to play a huge part in the decisions I make personally and professionally. Although our VOICE cohort has concluded, I still spend time with my Little living slowly and enjoying the simpler things like ice cream, a good book, and of course an occasional Happy Meal™. Growing up has to be one of the toughest things we go through as humans. For millennia we have been trying to figure it out! I believe as adults we have the responsibility of ensuring that our kids' transition to adulthood goes as smoothly as possible - so they can eventually make decisions, navigate life, and raise families from secure places of love and connection instead of fear and scarcity mindsets. I know that the work our team does at BBBS supports this belief and helps kids thrive. It in turn helps the adults who may be unable to show up for their own kids - usually at no fault of their own. I am proud to say without hesitation that my job is also my vocation and I am lucky that I can say so. I look forward to all the work we will be accomplishing together. |