Team Members Celebrate 5-Year Anniversary Milestones

Desert Recreation District recently recognized three team members celebrating five years of service during a meeting of the DRD Board of Directors. Jonathan Walsh, Lisa Lavery, and Guadalupe Benito Vargas were honored for their dedication to the District, their professional growth, and the many ways their work supports DRD and the communities we serve.

While their roles are very different, each has made a meaningful contribution during their five years with the District.

Jonathan Walsh

Jonathan Walsh joined DRD in 2021 as an Information Systems Technician, helping keep the technology used throughout the District running smoothly. His responsibilities grew quickly, and he advanced to Systems Administrator in 2022 before being promoted to Information Systems Manager in 2024.

Today, Jonathan oversees the District’s Information Systems operations and has helped advance DRD’s technology infrastructure and cybersecurity efforts. His work has included strengthening network security and expanding cybersecurity awareness through tools and training that help team members recognize and report potential threats. Much of that work happens quietly behind the scenes, keeping networks connected, files accessible, backups running, and technology working across District facilities.

Jonathan also takes pride in developing his Information Systems team, giving team members opportunities to take ownership of projects and grow in their roles. Beyond IT, he contributes to DRD through service on the Safety Committee and Team Member Appreciation Event Committee.

Lisa Lavery

(not pictured)

As DRD’s Print Media Specialist, Lisa Lavery has helped shape the way the District looks and communicates throughout the Coachella Valley. Her graphic design work can be seen in DRD’s Activity Guides, newsletters, promotional materials, signage, website content, and many of the other materials that connect residents with District programs, facilities, and services.

Lisa’s contributions extend beyond design. She brings a strong understanding of marketing and an instinct for identifying timely and relevant content, while continually exploring new ideas, trends, and best practices. She also shares that knowledge with others, helping strengthen the work of the Marketing team and DRD as a whole.

During her five years with the District, Lisa’s creativity, dedication, and marketing expertise have helped elevate both DRD’s communications and how the organization is presented to the public.

Guadalupe Benito Vargas

(not pictured)

Guadalupe Benito Vargas has become an important part of DRD’s Mecca and North Shore team, combining strong community service with a willingness to step in wherever she is needed. Her hard work and leadership led to her role as Senior Facilities Attendant at North Shore, where she has helped increase membership participation and facility use by creating a welcoming environment and engaging activities for fitness center members.

Her impact reaches well beyond her regular responsibilities. Guadalupe supports senior and Clubhouse programming and has stepped into temporary leadership roles when needed. She also leads an art component within the Clubhouse program, giving young people opportunities for creativity and self-expression. At community events, her face painting and arts and crafts have made her a favorite with children and families.

Guadalupe is also known for volunteering to support programs and events, even when she is not scheduled to work. Her compassion, leadership, and commitment to helping guests and fellow team members have made a positive impact throughout the Mecca and North Shore communities.

Five Years of Making a Difference

Five years represents thousands of hours spent helping participants, supporting fellow team members, solving problems, creating new ideas, and making DRD stronger.

We congratulate Jonathan, Lisa, and Guadalupe on reaching this milestone and thank them for the talent, dedication, and care they have brought to Desert Recreation District over the past five years. Their recognition by the Board of Directors celebrates not just their years of service, but the impact they have made along the way.

 

 

Outdoor Worker Appreciation Week Recognition

Every day, dedicated Desert Recreation District team members work outdoors to keep our parks, pools, trails, facilities, and community spaces safe, beautiful, and welcoming.

From our Public Works team members who maintain the places where our community gathers, to our Aquatics team members who lifeguard, teach swim lessons, and help keep our pools safe, we are grateful for your hard work, commitment, and passion for serving others.

At a recent Board of Directors meeting, the Desert Recreation District Board proudly presented a proclamation recognizing Outdoor Worker Appreciation Week and honoring the incredible team members who serve outdoors each day.

Thank you to all of our outdoor team members, and to outdoor workers throughout our community. Your work keeps our District moving, and it is truly seen, valued, and appreciated!

(Pictured L-R: Director Rudy Acosta, Director Karina Rodriguez, Marcos Solano, Veronica Rubio, Oscar Solis, Alyssa Bojorquez, Austin Regalado, Robert A. Hoppe, Nick Torrez, Director Natalia Gonzalez, Ed.D., and Director Luis Expinoza)

 

 

The District Gymnastics Team Members and Coaches Honored

Desert Recreation District was proud to honor the outstanding leadership and dedication to the District's Gymnastics Program. The District's Board of Directors congratulates the entire coaching team for helping five District gymnasts earn First Place honors at the Southern California State Championships. Thank you for your commitment to excellence and for representing the District with pride and distinction

(Left to right):

Giovanna Healy (President, DRD Board of Directors), Freya Hendricks (Gymnast), Imelda Gutierrez (Gymnastics Specialist), Rudy Acosta (Director, DRD Board of Directors), Lexi Lopez (Gymnast), Leslie Delatorre (Gymnastics Coach),  Karina Rodriguez (Vice President, Board of Directors), Rylia Gravdahl (Gymnast), Katryana Ysiano (Gymnastics Coach), Luci Moser (Gymnast), Luis Espinoza (Director, DRD Board of Directors), Natalia Gonzalez, Ed.D. (Director, DRD Board of Directors).

Gymnast not pictured:

Savannah Hellenga

Coaches not pictured:

Rachel Lerma, Mariano Noriega, Zoe Cattarinich

 

 

Celebrating Milestone Anniversaries at Desert Recreation District

At Desert Recreation District, our greatest strength is the people who dedicate their time, talent, and passion to serving our communities every day. We are proud to recognize several outstanding team members whose years of service reflect not only professional achievement, but also the lasting impact they have made across the District.

From creating meaningful programs and supporting families to strengthening operations behind the scenes, these individuals embody the values of commitment, leadership, creativity, and community spirit that define DRD.

Celebrating 15 Years of Service: Margo Sanchez

This year marks an incredible 15-year milestone for Margo Sanchez, whose dedication to the Finance team and the District has made her an invaluable asset since joining the organization in 2011. Beginning her career as an Account Technician and later advancing to Accountant I, Margo has consistently demonstrated professionalism, accuracy, and reliability in every aspect of her work.

Over the years, Margo has played a key role in major District initiatives, including the successful transition of the District’s accounting software system and the implementation of cash handling training procedures for staff. Today, she continues to support the organization by training new team members, assisting with audits, and ensuring strong financial compliance practices throughout the District.

Her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence have earned the respect of colleagues across departments, and we are grateful for the many contributions she continues to make.

Celebrating 5 Years of Service

Rosaisela “Rosita” Reyes Garcia

Rosita Reyes Garcia has spent the past five years making a meaningful difference for families and children participating in DRD programs. Joining the District in 2021, Rosita quickly became a trusted leader within the ASES program, helping bridge communication with Spanish-speaking families and ensuring participants felt supported and welcomed.

Her leadership abilities and dedication to the program led to her advancement into the role of Senior Para Educator, where she continues to guide staff and support daily program operations. Rosita’s compassion, reliability, and ability to build strong relationships within the community have made a lasting impact on both families and fellow team members.

Erika Castellanos

Since joining DRD in 2021, Erika Castellanos has brought creativity, leadership, and a deep passion for community engagement to every role she has held. Beginning as a Facilities Attendant and eventually becoming Community Service Coordinator for Thermal and Oasis, Erika has helped create programs and events that celebrate culture, connection, and community pride.

One of her most impactful contributions has been helping establish Thermal’s annual Día de los Muertos celebration, which has grown into a beloved event for residents throughout the Coachella Valley. Erika’s artistic spirit, cultural pride, and dedication to serving the East Valley continue to inspire those around her and enrich the communities she serves.

Desirae Lopez

Desirae Lopez began her journey with the District as a Facilities Attendant at the Indio Community Center and quickly became known for her professionalism, positivity, and outstanding customer service. In 2022, she was promoted to Office Assistant, where she now supports daily operations and assists both visitors and team members with a wide range of administrative needs.

Known for her approachable nature and willingness to help others, Desirae consistently creates a welcoming environment for everyone she interacts with. Her dedication and strong work ethic continue to make her an important part of the DRD team, and we are proud to celebrate this milestone with her.

Deisi Gallegos

Over the past five years, Deisi Gallegos has become a trusted and valued member of the District team through her leadership, creativity, and commitment to participants and staff alike. As an instructor, Deisi has made a lasting impact through the District’s guitar program, where she has helped students of all skill levels feel confident, supported, and inspired.

Beyond the classroom, Deisi has contributed to new program development, staff training, and special events, including helping launch the District’s first-ever Haunted House attraction. Her professionalism, resilience, and dedication to creating meaningful experiences continue to strengthen the programs and communities she serves.

Jonathan Michals

Jonathan Michals has played an important role in strengthening Desert Recreation District’s marketing and communications efforts over the past five years. Through his expertise in video production and photography, Jon has helped elevate the District’s storytelling, enhance brand visibility, and support meaningful engagement with residents and stakeholders.

Known for his collaborative approach and strong communication skills, Jon consistently supports departments across the District by documenting major events, assisting with public information efforts, and helping communicate DRD’s mission in creative and impactful ways. His professionalism, dependability, and commitment to quality continue to make him a valued member of the Marketing team and the District as a whole.

Brian Ruberg

Brian Ruberg’s five years of service have been marked by dedication, teamwork, creativity, and a genuine passion for helping others. A dependable and supportive team member, Brian is always willing to step in where needed and consistently brings positive energy to the workplace.

Through his work as an instructor and mentor, Brian has made a meaningful impact on students and participants, helping inspire confidence and creativity through music education. His commitment to professional growth, willingness to support his colleagues, and lasting influence on the community make him an essential part of the DRD team.

Thank You for Your Service

Each of these team members has contributed in unique and meaningful ways to the Desert Recreation District and the communities we proudly serve. Their dedication, leadership, and passion help create welcoming spaces, impactful programs, and lasting connections throughout the Coachella Valley.

Congratulations to Margo, Rosita, Erika, Desirae, Deisi, Jonathan, and Brian on these incredible milestones. We thank you for your years of service and look forward to celebrating many more accomplishments in the future.