We believe in purposeful work, real connection, and lasting impact.
Meet Gary
Gary dedicated 35 years of his career to Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG), rising to serve as its President & Chief Executive Officer. Under his leadership, AWG grew into the fastest-growing food wholesaler in the United States, a testament to his vision, discipline, and deep commitment to the communities the company served.
Following his retirement from AWG, he continued to pursue his entrepreneurial drive, founding a consulting firm and a commercial real estate company. The real estate business has become a family endeavor, one he now runs alongside his granddaughter, Sydney, carrying his legacy of building and investing into the next generation.
Beyond the boardroom, Gary has a lifelong passion for open-wheel formula racing, an enthusiasm that reflects his love of precision, speed, and competition. He has also devoted significant time and energy to philanthropy, serving as chairman of numerous charitable organizations, including supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity, and providing resources for children with disabilities.
Gary's legacy is one of leadership, vision, and an unwavering drive to build — whether it's a company, a community, or a legacy for generations to come.
Meet Sydney
Sydney is a third-generation entrepreneur, carrying forward a family legacy of building and investing that spans generations. She has founded and led ventures across commercial real estate, investments, and emerging technology. Today, she operates the family business and foundation alongside her grandfather, carrying their legacy into its next chapter. She also serves on the board of advisors for numerous startups, lending her cross-industry experience to founders building the next generation of companies.
Beyond business, Sydney is an avid world traveler with a deep love of the arts. A published children's book author, she is rarely without a project in progress.
Sydney is a trained end-of-life doula, supporting individuals and families through one of life's most profound transitions. She carries a deep passion for the elderly, and those navigating loss and bereavement, populations she believes deserve greater dignity and care.
Bold, ambitious, and with a zest for life, Sydney approaches business, the arts, and philanthropy with the same driving passion: to live an interesting life while building something that pushes humanity forward.
Our Founding Story
A Family Legacy, A Living Mission
The Phillips Family Foundation was established by Gary, Marsha, and Sydney Phillips, in honor of their sons, Scott and Michael. Every cause this Foundation champions is rooted in the love this family held for one another, and in the belief that dignity and opportunity should be extended to others at life's most vulnerable and transformative moments.
Marsha's spirit, and the memory of Michael and Scott, remain at the heart of everything this Foundation does. Their legacy lives on in every child educated, every elder cared for, every grieving family held, and every animal given a second chance.
Today, Gary and Sydney carry this vision forward, continuing the work their family began together.