APR Innovators: Dickey Gentry

Dickey Gentry wearing gray jacket and tshirt

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?young dickey gentry

I started working for the department as a facility attendant, but I have moved around a bit. I started cleaning parks and then moved to Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center and finally to Stephens-Lee Community Center.

What inspired you to apply to join the team?

Working here keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter!

Which accomplishments are you most proud of in terms of your work with the department?

I am proud to work with a great group of people.dickey gentry and friends

For you personally, what does it mean to work for the department?

I enjoy meeting a lot of people and making a difference for them and the community.

How have you grown professionally by working with APR?

When I started, I really didn’t expect to be here long. Then I realized I enjoyed the job and the different opportunities that came with it.

What do you do for fun when you’re not working? 

Going to yard sales and traveling. After retirement, I’m looking forward to sleeping in!!

How would you complete this sentence: I work for Asheville Parks & Recreation because…

I enjoy it and it keeps me active.

Join Dickey 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.

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