Return of the Rec Kids
Stories from the Valley:Episode 3

Post
Promotional graphic titled ‘Return of the Rec Kids’ displayed in large turquoise letters against a dark, starry, outer-space background. Four circular photos surround the text: at the top left, a photo of the ‘Indio’ city sign with palm trees; at the top right, an older man and woman smiling while holding a black-and-white photo; at the bottom left, a youth playing basketball in a gym; and at the bottom right, a male recreation staff member holding a basketball and wearing a Desert Recreation District shirt. The overall design suggests a fun, nostalgic return theme connected to recreation programs and community activities.

As Desert Recreation District closes out an unforgettable year celebrating 75 years of service, we’re excited to share the final installment of our Stories from the Valley video series: Return of the Rec Kids.

Set in Indio, California, this short film brings the spotlight back to where so many DRD memories were made. With deep roots in the city and three active recreation locations, Indio has long been home to generations of Rec Kids. In this episode, Rec Kids of all ages reflect on what DRD – and Indio - mean to them, how recreation shaped their childhoods, and why these community spaces continue to matter today.

Return of the Rec Kids is a love letter to connection, belonging, and the lasting impact of recreation. It honors the past while celebrating the voices that will carry DRD into the future.

Click below to watch other videos in the series:
Finding Jerry Rummonds
Greetings from North Shore