The City of Carthage is pleased to announce Abi Almandinger as the new Parks and Recreation Director. Ms. Almandinger is a graduate of Missouri Southern State University where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Education. She is a recipient of the ATHENA award and received several awards relating to her creation of Joplin’s Found Photos following the 2011 tornado.

Abi Almandinger has most recently served as the Executive Director for Vision Carthage, a non-profit organization that focuses on beautification and revitalization for the Carthage community. During her time in this role, she partnered with many organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Hearts and Hammers, and the City of Carthage in a variety of projects to propel economic development in the Downtown Historic District as well as the greater community.

Ms. Almandinger is the current Chair of the Carthage City Council's Planning, Zoning and Historic Preservation Committee and has been a key stakeholder in Parks Master Plan. She is also the Co-Chair of GRO Carthage and on the oversight committee for the Hall of Carthage Heroes.

For Carthage, Abi will be responsible for the management and operating functions of the Parks and Recreation Department.  This includes oversight of the parks, golf course, pool, Memorial Hall, and the Civil War Museum.  Abi’s first day will be December 28, 2022.