By: Jordan Meadows
Staff Writer
For over 30 years, Men at Work Car Care Center, a full-service car wash and detail center, has been a beacon opportunity in Raleigh, dedicated to providing second chances to those who need them most. Founded by Mike Phillips in 1988, the center has become a vital part of each community it touches.
Phillips, a Philadelphia native and 1979 graduate of Saint Augustine University, believes strongly in the power of redemption. After going through the system in the early 1990s, Phillips found his purpose by helping others in similar situations navigate the complexities of finding employment after they served time.
“Once I learned how to navigate life, that’s when I caught on fire. My job is to help another brother that’s coming out of the system to navigate his way out so that it doesn’t become repetitive and he gets back in there,” Phillips said.
His philosophy is simple: a stable job is a critical first step in rebuilding a life. At Men at Work, the guiding principles are clear: “No Stealing, No Stealing, No Stealing, and work hard.”
“Long term, my plan is to get a guy out of prison, teach him a trade, and upon completion of graduation, he’ll get his own truck. My goal is to have 100 men working with me,” Phillips said.
Currently located on Tryon Road, Men at Work continues to serve a diverse clientele that includes local businesspeople, students from nearby universities, and even sports stars like Charles Shackleford and Jerry Stackhouse.
The business has had numerous locations, including Blount and Cabarrus St, South Saunders St, and W Morgan St. from 1988-2017.
“The biggest challenge for us is probably finances. Finances are always trouble. This year, the rain choked us.”
He said he got some funding from the COVID stimulus from the federal government, but said it wasn’t enough to ease the challenge and it came at the last minute.
“It seemed like small businesses would be first to get it, but our new president, I hope she helps us out,” he said in reference to Vice President Kamala Harris. “I’m looking forward to that help.”
Over the years, Phillips has received several awards for his contributions to the community, including the John Wesley Winters, Sr. Award from the Raleigh Apex Branch of the NAACP. He has also been honored with the Southeast Raleigh Assembly Volunteer Award in recognition of his dedication to volunteerism and his exemplary leadership.
All four of Phillips’ children have graduated from college and are either working or running their own small businesses. Phillips and his team are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of those who have faced challenges. The Men at Work Car Care Center embodies the strength of community and the belief that everyone deserves a second chance.
“I’m not chasing that kind of money, I want some, but I want to be comfortable. Ain’t that livin’? You can’t take it with you!”
All four of his children have graduated from college and are working or own small businesses of their own.
