THE DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT HOSTED A VETERANS OPEN HOUSE AND COMMUNITY TOWNHALL IN INDIO

THE DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT HOSTED A VETERANS OPEN HOUSE AND COMMUNITY TOWNHALL IN INDIO

The Desert Recreation District invited local veterans and their families to attend the event on Saturday, January 31, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the DRD Indio Gymnastics and Performing Arts Center. The facility, located at 81725 CA 111 in Indio and formerly known as the Metro 8 Movie Theater, was the venue.

This free community event was designed as a listening-focused conversation. At that time, the Desert Recreation District did not offer veteran-specific programs. Instead of making assumptions, the District created space to hear directly from veterans and their families about the types of programs, services, activities, and events that would have been most meaningful to them.

During the townhall, District staff shared a brief overview of the Desert Recreation District and explained how the community feedback gathered during the event would help guide future planning and programming. Veterans had the opportunity to share ideas, ask questions, and engage in open discussion.

“This Open House was about listening directly to the veterans who lived in our communities,” said Dr. Martin, General Manager of the Desert Recreation District. “Their input helped shape how we moved forward and ensured that future efforts reflected real experiences and genuine needs.”

Veteran resource organizations were on-site to provide information and connect attendees with services available throughout the Coachella Valley. Families were encouraged to attend, and refreshments, coffee, food, and snacks were provided. The event also included family-friendly activities and opportunities to tour the facility.

Veterans organizations interested in participating or learning more were encouraged to attend or contact Scott Sear at 760.347.3484 or ssear@drd.us.com.