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 joined in 2020 as a seasonal recreation team member and was promoted to Program Leader at Stephens-Lee Community Center after three years. I grew up participating in APR programs and knew Ms. Shateisha, Ms. Angel, and Ms. Tameka – and I felt comfortable working with them. I applied for the position under Ms. Kim, who was my camp counselor while I was at Tempie Avery Montford Center and Stephens-Lee.
Working for APR means a lot to me because I’m frontline in the communities I grew up in and helping others, being a positive role model to kids who grew up in the same circumstances. To me, it means I get a chance to show some kids there is more to life than just sports, rapping, and being stuck inside dealing with challenges in ways that may not always be the best.
How have you grown professionally by working with APR?
Professionally, I’ve grown a lot working with APR such as learning to adapt to different circumstances and working and communicating with all age groups. This career has helped me become a great improviser and better planner. I’ve learned how to make a work plan and keep my work organized and manageable – and I’m also getting better at response times to emails.
Which accomplishments are you most proud of in terms of your work with the department?
Growing a mentor program with middle and high school boys has been a major accomplishment, as has developing a weight training program for the same age group. Getting my APR Afterschool teen leadership program involved in helping and giving back in the community by volunteering at a homeless shelter every other week and donating canned foods to neighborhood food drives has also been inspiring.
How have impacts of Tropical Storm Helene changed or affected the way you approach your work?
I tend to make my programs low-cost or free and to give back as much as we possibly can through our APR programs.
What do you do when you’re not working?
I fish, exercise, and travel.
How would you complete this sentence: I work for Asheville Parks & Recreation because…the kids need me!
Join Tre 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.