GPF Partners with GCVM to Support Memorial Enhancements

The Greensboro Parks Foundation is partnering with the Guilford County Veterans Memorial (GCVM) Board of Directors to support the enhancement and restoration of the GCVM located at Greensboro's Country Park. The partnership establishes GCVM as one of the Foundation's Community Impact Partners, providing fiscal sponsorship and fundraising support for a project to modernize and expand this community landmark.

The partnership comes as GCVM undertakes a comprehensive capital campaign to restore and enhance the memorial following storm damage and to create a more engaging experience for visitors. The project will expand the memorial's mission beyond the 20th century to honor today's veterans and future generations of service members.

"We are honored to support the Guilford County Veterans Memorial in this important work," said Paula Barger, executive director of Greensboro Parks Foundation. "This partnership exemplifies our Community Impact Partners program - empowering community-driven projects that enhance our parks and public spaces while reflecting the values and vision of those who use them most."

Planned enhancements include:

• Installation of a decommissioned UH-1M "Huey" helicopter as a focal point

• Seven prominent flagpoles representing all military branches, including Space Force

• Expanded space for engraved memorial bricks

• Bronze battle cross sculpture

• Improved accessibility features and landscaping

• Interactive displays and augmented reality experiences

• Digital content connecting physical tributes with veterans' stories

The estimated construction cost for physical improvements is approximately $443,000, with additional phases planned for interactive technology components. GCVM plans to begin construction once at least 50-percent of funds for the physical transformation are secured, with groundbreaking anticipated in early 2026.

"The partnership with Greensboro Parks Foundation opens new doors for us to reach potential donors and share our vision for honoring veterans," said Susan Danielsen, chair of the GCVM Board of Directors and a retired soldier. "Through this collaboration, we can offer supporters easy online giving, tax-deductible donations, and professional donor acknowledgment - all while focusing our energy on the mission of preserving this meaningful site for generations to come."

How to Support

Tax-deductible donations to the Guilford County Veterans Memorial Enhancement Project can be made online. Contributions of all sizes are welcome, including cash, pledges, securities, and other non-cash assets. Checks may be made payable to Greensboro Parks Foundation with "GCVM" in the memo line and mailed to 301 S. Greene St., Suite 300, Greensboro, NC 27401.

For more information about the memorial project, visit GCVM. To learn more about becoming a Community Impact Partner or supporting other community-driven park projects, visit the Greensboro Parks Foundation or contact Paula Barger at 336-373-2560.

About the Community Impact Partners Program

Greensboro Parks Foundation's Community Impact Partners program collaborates with neighborhood groups, volunteer organizations, and nonprofits to bring community-driven park and facility projects to life. The program provides fiscal sponsorship, fundraising support, project guidance, and promotional assistance to empower local efforts that enhance Greensboro's parks and green spaces.

The Foundation currently supports six active Community Impact Partners, collectively raising over $66,000 for projects ranging from park beautification and historic preservation to recreation facility improvements. All projects take place on City of Greensboro park, recreation, or open space property in partnership with Greensboro Parks & Recreation.

About Greensboro Parks Foundation

Greensboro Parks Foundation is a nonprofit philanthropic partner for Greensboro Parks & Recreation, dedicated to providing financial and volunteer support for park and recreation facility improvements that enhance quality of life for all. Through donor-funded projects, community partnerships, and strategic initiatives, the Foundation helps address Greensboro's $300 million in unfunded park needs while supporting programs like Send a Kid to Camp and Community Impact Partners. Learn more at greensboroparksfoundation.org.

About Guilford County Veterans Memorial

The Guilford County Veterans Memorial, located at Country Park in Greensboro, serves as a place of reflection, remembrance, and education honoring the sacrifices of local veterans. The memorial is managed by the Guilford County Veterans Memorial Board of Directors and operates through fiscal sponsorship with the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro. The site hosts civic and veteran events throughout the year, including Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances. Learn more at gcveteransmemorial.org.