When Mike Phillips joined the Greensboro Parks Foundation Board of Directors in October 2023, he brought not only his financial expertise but also a deep passion for ensuring that Greensboro’s parks and trails remain accessible and thriving for generations to come. As a senior leader at VF Corporation, Mike has long been engaged in supporting outdoor recreation initiatives, and his involvement with the Foundation was a natural extension of that commitment.
“VF Corporation has been a proud partner of Greensboro Parks and Recreation, investing in trail improvements and outdoor access,” said Phillips, who now serves as Treasurer of the Board. “When the Foundation reached out about getting a VF team member directly involved, I saw it as an opportunity to give back to a park system that my family and I have personally enjoyed for decades.”
A Greater Appreciation for Parks and Recreation
Though Mike has lived in Greensboro since 1996 and regularly visited parks and recreation facilities with his family, his time on the Foundation board has given him a newfound appreciation for the size, scope, and impact of the local park system.
“I was surprised by how extensive Greensboro’s Parks and Recreation system really is,” he noted. “I’ve been a regular parks user, and my kids have participated in different programs, but I never fully realized just how much work goes into maintaining these facilities and ensuring they remain accessible for everyone.”
Through his board service, Mike has gained firsthand insight into the enormous effort required to keep parks, trails, and community centers in good working condition. He’s also learned that many people benefit from the work of the Foundation without even realizing it.
A Legacy of Trail Development and Outdoor Access
When asked what he wished more people knew about the Greensboro Parks Foundation, Mike emphasized its role in securing funding and partnerships that have made some of Greensboro’s most impactful projects possible.
“In particular, the Foundation has played a huge role in supporting the trail system,” he said. “Many people love our greenways and natural surface trails but don’t realize that behind the scenes, the Greensboro Parks Foundation has helped raise funds and manage key improvements that have made these trails possible.”
Indeed, since its founding in 2006, the Greensboro Parks Foundation has helped facilitate millions of dollars in funding for outdoor recreation. Some of the most transformational trail projects include:
- North Buffalo Creek Greenway Expansion – A critical trail extension, funded in part by a $350,000 grant from VF Foundation, that improves connectivity across Greensboro.
- Palmetto Trail Boardwalk Replacement – Upgrading aging infrastructure to keep the greenway system safe and enjoyable.
- Keeley Park Accessible Mountain Biking Trail – A first-of-its-kind adaptive trail in Greensboro, ensuring that individuals of all abilities can enjoy mountain biking.
- Bicentennial Greenway Natural Surface Trail Connector – Made possible through a $350,000 gift from Friends Homes Greensboro, this connection enhances Greensboro’s regional trail network.
“VF Corporation has been a strong supporter of these types of projects, and I’m proud to continue that work through my role on the Board,” said Mike.
Building Community Through Parks
Beyond his work with the Foundation board, Mike has also enjoyed the opportunity to connect with Parks and Recreation staff and program participants.
“I’ve loved visiting our recreation centers and meeting the staff,” he shared. “It’s energizing to see their passion for serving the community and their deep commitment to the neighborhoods they work in.”
One of the most rewarding moments for Mike came when he met members of the adaptive mountain biking community at the grand opening of the Adaptive Mountain Biking Trail at Keeley Park. This trail, made possible by funding from the VF Foundation through their partnership with Greensboro Parks Foundation and Greensboro Parks and Recreation, was designed to ensure that individuals of all abilities can experience the joy of mountain biking. “That experience opened my eyes to a community I hadn’t known much about,” he said. “Seeing the enthusiasm and dedication of these riders reinforced how important it is that we keep making parks and recreation spaces accessible to all.”
Why Parks Matter
For Mike, parks and recreation are more than just places to play—they are critical to a city’s economic and social well-being.
“Parks and trails play a big role in economic development,” he said. “Companies looking to relocate or expand want to know that their employees will have access to great outdoor spaces. They’re a major factor in making Greensboro an attractive place to live and work.”
But just as importantly, parks enhance quality of life for all residents. “It’s vital that people have opportunities to get outdoors, be active, and connect with nature—and that these amenities remain accessible regardless of income level or ability.”
Spreading the Word About Greensboro Parks Foundation
When Mike tells friends or colleagues about his involvement with the Foundation, the most common response is: “What does the Greensboro Parks Foundation do?”
“They know and love the parks and recreation system, but they don’t always realize that the Foundation has played a key role in securing funding and driving impactful projects forward,” he said. “That’s why it’s so important for us to spread awareness—because the more people understand our mission, the more we can accomplish.”
Giving Back: How You Can Get Involved
Mike encourages anyone who cares about Greensboro’s parks, trails, and recreation opportunities to consider supporting the Foundation.
“Whether you donate, volunteer, or advocate for improvements, you’ll have a direct impact on your community,” he said. “Our projects are tangible, local, and benefit everyone—your neighbors, your family, and future generations.”
Fun Fact: A Global Perspective
Although Mike has lived in Greensboro for nearly 30 years, his career with VF Corporation took him around the world—including a five-year stint in Hong Kong.
“When I was asked to be VF’s Asia controller in Hong Kong, I said yes, and my family packed up and moved overseas,” he said. “It was an incredible experience that broadened our perspective on the world.”
Mike and his wife navigated the challenges of raising four sons in a completely different culture, from understanding new school systems to adapting to shopping and transportation in one of the world’s busiest cities. “Coming back to the U.S. was as much of an adjustment for our kids as moving abroad,” he recalled. “But in the end, it was an enriching experience that shaped our family in ways we never expected.”
Mike’s four sons enjoying family time at home.
Mike and his wife Joanna taking in a Braves home game.
Beyond the Boardroom
When he’s not volunteering or working at VF, Mike enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, and attending sports events. He and his family are also loyal Atlanta Braves fans—making time for a few games every season. “I play golf, but I’m not very good,” he admitted with a laugh.
Join Mike in Supporting Greensboro Parks Foundation
From expanding trails and greenways to enhancing recreation facilities, the Greensboro Parks Foundation is making a lasting impact on the city. Mike invites you to be a part of this transformation.
“Our parks and trails belong to all of us. When we invest in them, we invest in a better Greensboro, for today and for the future.”