For over 30 years, Tim has been a dedicated volunteer in Virginia State Parks, serving as president of the Virginia Association for Parks for the past nine years and as a Camp Host for nine seasons. His deep passion for the parks, particularly Bear Creek Lake State Park, where he led the Friends Group for over a decade, is evident in his commitment to preserving park history and engaging visitors through storytelling. Tim is also the driving force behind Lights at the Lake, a holiday light show that raised over $14,000 and collected 1,500 toys last year to support the Cumberland Christmas Mother program, which provides Christmas gifts for 300 children and 177 senior citizens. Whether hosting at Bear Creek Lake, supporting park initiatives, or advocating for Virginia’s outdoor spaces, Tim remains a true champion for the state’s parks and communities.

Mike has served as Secretary of the VAFP since 2016, and has been a dedicated volunteer at False Cape State Park since 2012. His passion for hands-on work has led him to take on various roles, including as a kayak guide and assisting with maintenance projects throughout the park. Recently, Mike completed a restoration of the shutters on the Park Manager’s cabin, adding to his list of contributions which include trail maintenance, Visitor Center upgrades, and lodge upkeep. False Cape State Park is one of the most remote parks in Virginia, requiring visitors to hike, bike, or take a tram ride along a five-mile journey to reach it. With no paved roads, visitors must travel through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to access the park. Mike’s preferred route is by boat, navigating across Back Bay from Pungo with his 19-foot Grady White. On his way, he often takes time to fish and soak in the natural beauty. False Cape offers a wide range of activities, from exploring bays and oceans to primitive camping, fishing, hiking, and biking. Mike encourages everyone to add False Cape to their list of must-visit parks.

Michelle became a member of VAFP in January of 2024 to participate in the Virginia General Assembly Lobby Day. Since then, she has joined the newly established Advocacy Committee as Co-Chair. Michelle and her husband have been staunch supporters of the Virginia State Parks since moving here in 2010 with the military. During the pandemic, she and her husband learned about the Trail Quest program, and saw it as a way to explore new places while being outside in nature. As an avid hiker, birder and mountain biker, Michelle has visited 19 of our 43 parks. Some of her favorite parks include: Grayson Highlands State Park for hiking, Pocahontas State Park for mountain biking, and Machicomoco State Park for birding. Michelle looks forward to chipping away at her Trail Quest list, and hitting the ground at the 2025 General Assembly Lobby Day, advocating on behalf of our State Parks.