Mike Parker is known for his infectious smile, contagious laugh, and more importantly, his passion for giving back to the community. The consummate volunteer, Parker has received The Block M of Honor for Community Impact, recognizing D-SIP alumni who have made philanthropic contributions to their communities through their gifts of time, treasure, and talent.
In 2015, this passion led Parker to a D-SIP internship at UM-Dearborn, his alma mater. Shortly after graduation, he joined the Prospect Development and Analytics team in U-M’s Office of University Development (OUD) where he worked for nearly three years.
“To be recognized was a true honor since the previous recipients [of this award] assisted
in making my D-SIP experience possible and, like me, were eager to help the next generation of leaders, influencers, and trailblazers,” Parker said.
As members of the Development Community got to know Parker, many noticed his eagerness to give back to the community went far beyond his role in fundraising at Michigan. Long before assuming his current position as the volunteer director for North Star Reach, a free camp that serves children with chronic and life-threatening health challenges across the Great Lakes Region, Parker would spend his vacations from U-M volunteering at the camp.
For Parker, giving back has always been a way of life.
“I feel my desire to help the community is a natural part of me, so I never thought I would receive an award for it,” he said.
The contagious smile and altruistic attitude for which he is so well known only grows when he spoke about volunteering at North Star Reach.
“I love being able to talk about camp and recruit others to an experience that continues to impact my life,” Parker said. “I love connecting with the campers to show them endless possibilities and give them the opportunity to show not only others, but also themselves, that they are more than their health challenges.”
Parker says he’s fortunate to have a career he loves and attributes his success to D-SIP.
“The program challenged me to reflect on my past experiences and envision what my future could manifest into, all while providing me the tools and resources necessary to make it a reality.”
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