Bridgette Thompson Explains How Parks And Rec Builds Community

A great community doesn’t run on luck, it runs on people who plan, coordinate, troubleshoot, and still show up with a smile when the gates open. We’re celebrating a Hometown Hero whose work touches thousands of Henderson County families every year: Bridgette Thompson, Special Events Coordinator for Henderson County Parks and Recreation. If you’ve ever enjoyed Treat Street, the Easter egg hunt, Santa on the Square, New Year’s Eve festivities, or movies in the park, you’ve felt the impact of her work.

Bridgette walks us through what most of us never see: the behind-the-scenes planning, the long timelines, and the partnerships that make public events safe and memorable. We talk about coordinating with law enforcement, fire departments, public works, county teams, volunteers, vendors, and sponsors, plus what it takes to keep these community traditions welcoming as Hendersonville and the surrounding area continue to grow.

We also look ahead to July 4 with the added significance of America 250, and why this celebration is a chance to create something both fun and meaningful. Bridgette shares her own story too, from starting as a teen counselor to building a career in parks and recreation management right here at home, and the moments that remind her why the work matters when kids return year after year with their own families.

If you want to get involved, we share how to volunteer and support Henderson County Parks and Rec. Subscribe for more local stories, share this with someone who loves Western North Carolina community events, and leave a review so more listeners can find the Hometown Hero Series.