APR Innovators is an Asheville Parks & Recreation series highlighting team members going above and beyond to bring huge value to community members through knowledge, connections, and insight that come from a desire to create the best city possible through the power of high-quality recreation programs and safe parks that welcome everyone.
When did you join the Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) team?
I was hired as a Program leader in 2023. I’ve spent close to 30 years in the recreation field and saw this as a wonderful opportunity to really connect with the community I live in. I am amazed and inspired on a daily basis by our wonderful community of staff and residents.
How have you grown professionally by working with APR?
Expanding my ability to deliver powerful programs to a variety of ages. I have the amazing opportunity to program for toddler to children to teens to adults to older adults, often all in a single day!
Which accomplishments are you most proud of in terms of your work with the department?
I have really enjoyed implementing a youth mindfulness program and being a part of the growth and success of our youth wrestling program as both are lifetime passions of mine.
How have impacts of Tropical Storm Helene changed or affected the way you approach your work?
Patience, love, and perseverance.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I’m either with my wife and new grandchild or training for a marathon or Gaelic games competition.
How would you complete this sentence: I work for APR because I personally understand the power that recreation programs have to change the life of youths for the better.
Join Bob and other parks and recreation professionals making significant impact as they work to build a strong, healthy, and happy place to live. Current opportunities to work with Asheville Parks & Recreation can be found online.