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 excited to become part of the team in 2015 as a seasonal member. Since then, I’ve served the community as a Program Leader and am currently the Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center Facility Supervisor. When I was hired, I was pursuing my bachelor’s degree at Western Carolina University. The APR position at Vance Elementary School (now Lucy S. Herring Elementary School) was a good fit for both my work history and my academic schedule, as I had several years of prior experience in licensed childcare.
Which accomplishments are you most proud of in terms of your work with the department?
I am incredibly proud of the professional growth I’ve experienced throughout my career, both in past and current roles. My journey with the APR team began as a temporary seasonal employee, which provided me with a foundational understanding of our work as recreation professionals and allowed me to develop from there.
Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of contributing to several impactful programs including the Positive Opportunities Develop Success (PODS) program and virtual summer camp during the pandemic and more recently, the annual Shiloh Fun Day festival, Trunk or Treat, and Shiloh Neighborhood Association events. Equally important are the strong relationships I’ve built with colleagues, families we serve, community members across the county, and partner organizations such as Team Us, YMCA of WNC, Shiloh Neighborhood Association.
For you personally, what does it mean to work for APR?
Working for APR offers me the chance to bring joy to western North Carolina residents. I love watching an idea develop and seeing its positive impact on people of all ages and backgrounds across Buncombe County. APR enriches countless lives by introducing innovative and enjoyable ways to enhance the quality of life for the communities we serve.
Join Christin 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.