A collector’s postcards reveal the slow, deliberate development of Seventh Street—now Mission Inn Avenue—from 1906 to 1914, tracing the stories behind the Densmore, Logan, and Lewis homes at the mountain’s base.
Brock is a proud Riverside resident who brings both heart and hustle to everything he does. By day, he serves in UC Riverside’s Alumni Engagement Office, helping connect Highlander alumni back to campus and supporting student success. But his community impact stretches far beyond his day job. Brock is a passionate advocate for underserved communities, especially LGBTQ+ residents. He currently serves as Chair of the City of Riverside’s Human Relations Commission, Vice President and Advocacy Director for Riverside LGBTQ+ Pride, and a member of the California Department of Education’s LGBTQ+ Statewide Advisory Task Force. Among his many contributions, Brock led Inland Empire efforts for the “Yes on Prop 3” campaign, working to enshrine marriage equality in the state constitution—a milestone he considers his proudest accomplishment.
What does Riverside mean to you? I was born and raised in the Midwest and moved to Riverside in 2020. Riverside quickly revealed itself to be the best of both worlds—with a close-knit community similar to Iowa, in a larger metropolitan area with all the perks of Southern California. To me, Riverside is classic California, with orange groves, rich culture and history, and breathtaking architecture. In a short five years, Riverside has quickly become my home, and I am forever grateful for the community I have built here.
What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? Habanero Mexican Grill on University Avenue.
What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? The Riverside Municipal Auditorium. It also has a special place in my heart as the venue for our first Riverside Pride Festival.
What is your favorite Riverside small business? Cellar Door Bookstore! I always encourage folks to support independent bookstores, and Linda and her team are the absolute best.
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Riverside Pride, of course. However, if I had to choose another, it would be the Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California. The way they share the stories and history of civil rights leaders in the IE is remarkable.
What is your go-to sandwich in town? Sub Station—I always go with a classic turkey sandwich.
What is your favorite spot for a date night? We love heading downtown to the new Dapper Dine & Lounge.
Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Tyler Mall, of course.
Finally, tell us what you’re working on right now and how our readers can support your efforts—whether it’s a project, passion, or cause close to your heart! Riverside Pride is so excited to be hosting our Annual Riverside Pride Festival on Saturday, May 10, at White Park. We have a full day of entertainment, over 120 exhibitor booths, a Youth Zone, an Art and History Pavilion, a beer garden, and so much more! The event is free, but a ticket is required for entry. This event, led entirely by volunteers, is a great chance to celebrate and engage with our vibrant LGBTQ+ community in the Inland Empire. Visit riversideprideie.org for free tickets and more information.
Neighbor of the Week is our way of celebrating the hidden heroes of Riverside—those who go above and beyond to make our community stronger, kinder, and more vibrant. We believe every remarkable Riversider deserves their story told. Know someone who’s making a difference? Nominate a Neighbor of the Week
