The La Jolla Recreation Center has been a cornerstone of community life in San Diego for decades. It’s not just a building. It's an essential community hub that provides a safe and inclusive space for residents of all ages to participate in recreational activities, learn new skills, and improve their well-being. Its closure would be a tremendous loss for everyone. I am a mother of two, and like many other families, we go to the rec center nearly every day. Surrounded by many schools and preschools, the rec center is a safe place for children to meet and play and run in an otherwise urban environment. We have made so many friends, young and old at the rec center. My children, husband and I have met some of our best friends at the rec center. We’ve participated in countless activities, school events, holiday gatherings, class picnics, soccer games, pick up basketball games, baseball games, tennis practice, birthday parties, and other celebrations at the rec. The rec center has become a pinnacle part of holidays, where we’ve participated in many Christmas festivities, trunk or treat , and the Easter egg hunt. The rec center has hosted some wonderful events which attract residents from neighboring communities, such as our Christmas celebrations with hot chocolates, face painting and even snow! The rec has coordinated with the play fairy, who helps connect kids and play in a creative environment. The community has also enjoyed movies in the park, bounce houses, and so much more. The friendly, helpful, and loyal staff at the rec center are a big part of what makes this place so special. When my kids have gotten an ouchie, the staff was there and ready with a bandaid. When our soccer ball needed some help, they pumped it up for us. The rec staff has also provided and maintained lots of sports equipment like soccer balls, basketballs, and kids hoops to borrow. We have met many senior adults who thrive playing pickle ball, bocci ball, taking classes, and walking, whom we’ve become friends with as well. And it is really cool to see the kids become friends with some of our senior neighbors. We’ve met many families traveling from out of town as well, who have all described how essential it was for them to have a park and rec place at their destination. The potential closure would not only impact individuals but also have a ripple effect on local businesses and the community's economy. Visitors to the center patronize nearby shops and restaurants, and many local jobs are tied to its operations. The La Jolla rec center is truly a special place where people of all ages and backgrounds can meet and spend time together. It would be a huge loss and absolutely devastating to our community if we lost such a diverse and safe recreational space. Please please do not close the La Jolla Rec Center. Please sign this petition to show your support in keeping La Jolla Recreation Center open and thriving.