Volunteer Spotlight: Bank of America

Volunteer Spotlight: Bank of America

Published on March 02, 2026

Local Bank of America employees have been volunteering with the City's Forestry division for the past 17 years. We chatted with Theresa Michaelis, a senior vice president at Bank of America who helps coordinate the team's volunteer efforts. Here's what she told us:

Bank of America has been volunteering with the City's Forestry program since 2009, logging an impressive 1,944.5 volunteer hours.

What inspired your organization to get involved, and what keeps you coming back year after year?

Bank of America provides opportunities for employees to volunteer so we can come together to inspire future generations, build stronger communities and bring positive change to the places we call home. In addition, the bank offers programs and benefits that help employees become better environmental stewards at work, home and in their community. Volunteering with City's Forestry program at the Rolling Hills Tree Farm, as well as Mayfest, was a perfect opportunity to engage a large number of volunteers and know that they would have a great time.

What does a typical volunteer shift look like for your team?

Bank of America volunteers at the Rolling Hills Tree Farm from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. two Saturdays a year, in spring and fall. We spend the day transplanting trees into containers, planting trees in the fields, weeding, staking and tying trees or maintaining irrigation. We also volunteer a full day of service helping at the Mayfest Tree Giveaway booth.

What do your volunteers say is their favorite part of the experience?

Our bank volunteers, along with their family and friends, always look forward to helping the City's Forestry program. They enjoy digging in the dirt and seeing the results of their hard work grow in the fields. Many also appreciate the experience they gain learning proper tree care and maintenance.

Is there a moment or project that stands out as especially memorable?

We have enjoyed every volunteer moment over the years working with the Forestry team. They have a wealth of knowledge of native trees, the City of Fort Worth and you just cannot beat the hands-on opportunity they provide. Plus, each time we learn a little something more about the fascinating history behind the tree farm location itself and how it's evolved over time.

What would you say to another organization considering volunteering with the Forestry program?

Volunteering with Forestry is the perfect opportunity for your employees/members to support environmental sustainability, improve the urban canopy and connect with nature right in your own community.

Visit our volunteer website today to browse our programs and learn how you can invest in your community and invest in yourself.

• Volunteers