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Stacy Bare

Executive Director at Friends of Grand Rapids Parks

Stacy Bare is the Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, a position he has held since February 2022.1 He is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and brings over a decade of experience in conservation and outdoor recreation to this role.3

Professional Background

Stacy has a diverse professional background that includes:

  1. Military Service: He served in the United States Army, including deployments to Bosnia and Iraq.4

  2. Nonprofit Leadership: Prior to his current role, Stacy founded and led Veterans Expeditions, an organization focused on getting veterans outdoors.1

  3. Consulting: He founded Bare, LLC, providing process improvement consulting for organizations working in conservation and at the intersection of health, wellness, and the outdoors.1

  4. Brand Ambassador: Stacy served as a Brand Champion for The North Face from 2014 to 2017.1

Current Role and Vision

As Executive Director of Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, Stacy is working towards making Grand Rapids the healthiest and most park-equitable city in America.1 His main goals include:

  • Achieving 40% tree canopy coverage for Grand Rapids
  • Ensuring all residents live within 10 minutes of a park or open space1

Stacy believes that planting trees and maintaining parks is not just about environmental and physical health benefits, but also about strengthening community connections.1 He emphasizes the importance of community organizing, volunteer engagement, workforce development, and environmental education in achieving these goals.1

Personal Interests

Outside of his professional life, Stacy is known as a husband, father, skier, biker, and general outdoorsman.2 He is passionate about encouraging people to explore Grand Rapids' park system and experience the transformative power of nature.5

Highlights

43. Stacy Bare - Friends of Grand Rapids Parks + Adventure Not War
Aug 10 · patch.com
Friends Of Grand Rapids Parks Director Brings Nature To The ...
Friends Of Grand Rapids Parks Director Brings Nature To The ...
Friends of GR Parks names executive director
Friends of GR Parks names executive director
Our Next Executive Director - Friends of Grand Rapids Parks
Our Next Executive Director - Friends of Grand Rapids Parks

Related Questions

What are Stacy Bare's main goals for Friends of Grand Rapids Parks?
How has Stacy Bare's background influenced her work at Friends of Grand Rapids Parks?
What projects has Stacy Bare led at Friends of Grand Rapids Parks?
How does Stacy Bare engage the community in park initiatives?
What is the significance of the 40% tree canopy goal for Grand Rapids?
Stacy Bare
Stacy Bare, photo 1
Stacy Bare, photo 2
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Experience

Executive Director at Friends of Grand Rapids Parks since February 2022
Founded Bare LLC; Project Manager at United States Air Force; Distribution Specialist at Specialized Bicycle Components; National Board Director at American Alpine Club; Director at Sierra Club Outdoors

Education

Masters in City and Regional Planning, Urban Design and Development from University of Pennsylvania (2007 - 2009); BA in Philosophy from University of Mississippi (1996 - 2000)

Location

Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States