Daniel Manget, Outdoor Programs Coordinator for Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR), has been recognized as part of the APR Innovators series. This initiative highlights staff members who contribute significantly to the community through recreation programs and park services.
Manget joined APR in January 2023 after spending time as an educator with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission. During his previous role, he often collaborated with APR to deliver outdoor programs for local youth. “I enjoyed those programs more than any others because many of the youth hadn’t been exposed to many outdoor adventures before and had more enthusiasm for my programs. The obvious impact the programs had on the kids was inspiring and helped me to appreciate outdoor recreation in a new light,” Manget said.
Having lived in Asheville for two decades, Manget felt drawn to work directly with APR. “As part of the Asheville community for 20 years, I knew I would get a lot more satisfaction working for the APR than anywhere else in the field – and I was correct. When the position opened, I applied and was hired as Outdoor Programs Coordinator in January 2023. I get a lot of satisfaction taking care of people in my city who are often overlooked, underserved, and don’t get the same opportunities that many others do in the region,” he explained.
Manget described how his role at APR has contributed to his professional growth: “This position has helped me grow as a coordinator and communicator. I was previously the person who executed a plan set forth by someone else. The autonomy I have working for APR allows me to see programs from start to finish, which allows me to continue to improve them over time.”
Among his accomplishments at APR, Manget highlighted expanding nature-focused recreational activities such as river snorkeling and naturalist hikes, along with growing established offerings like fly fishing sessions. He encouraged residents interested in these activities to sign up for updates: “Initiating more nature-focused recreational programs such as river snorkeling and naturalist hikes, as well as growing existing programs such as the fly fishing series. (Pro tip: sign up for the APR Outdoors newsletter to stay in the loop!)”
Reflecting on recent challenges faced by Asheville following Tropical Storm Helene, Manget shared how participating in relief efforts affected him: “Working in resource distribution lines after Helene was life changing. Seeing people in our community sacrifice to help strangers who had lost everything was inspiring. Many people cried with relief because they aren’t used to asking for help – and it turns out they didn’t have to. We all wanted to help and took great satisfaction in doing so.”
Outside of work, Manget enjoys bluegrass music, fly fishing, various sports activities, and spending time outdoors.
When asked why he works at Asheville Parks & Recreation, Manget responded: “Asheville is the best city in the country with the best people in the world! Helping them get more satisfaction out of life by getting them off screens, getting outside, and being healthy is more than just a 9 to 5 desk job. I feel like I’m making a difference to improve their daily lives.”
Residents interested in joining Asheville Parks & Recreation can find current job openings online.
