Ernesto is a long-time Riverside resident whose work is fueled by kindness and lived experience. Once justice-involved himself, he turned his own journey of incarceration, addiction, and self-doubt into a mission to help others rewrite their stories. Alongside his wife, Kathleen, Ernesto co-leads Kindful Restoration, a Riverside nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals affected by addiction, trauma, and involvement with the justice system. Through mentorship, education, and emotional guidance, he helps clients develop empathy, accountability, and practical life skills, breaking cycles of generational violence and providing hope for a brighter future.
Beyond his nonprofit work, Ernesto is deeply connected to his community. He draws strength and perspective from daily walks and reflections on Mt. Rubidoux, embraces Riverside’s local culture, and celebrates the city’s history and people in his work. Known for his compassion, patience, and dedication, he strives to make Riverside a place where every individual has access to support, opportunity, and a second chance.
Through Kindful Restoration, Ernesto has expanded Riverside County’s reentry and youth programs, partnering with local agencies and schools to create pathways to recovery, employment, housing, and leadership for those most at risk. His work has empowered countless individuals to reclaim their agency and rebuild their lives, exemplifying how one person’s commitment to empathy and service can ripple throughout a community.
What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside is more than our headquarters, it's our heart. It's where we walk alongside individuals every day as they take brave steps toward healing, purpose, and community. For us, Riverside represents resilience, second chances, and the belief that with the right support, anyone can rewrite their story. We're committed to making Riverside a Kindness County, where compassion, connection, and dignity are the foundation of every system and every life we touch.
What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? Probably close to 50, but every climb feels like the first, especially when I’m walking with a client or reflecting on how far we've come. Mt. Rubidoux is a place of perspective and peace for me.
What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? Anchos Southwest Grill off of Arlington, hands down. Their mesquite-grilled flavors and fresh tortillas always hit the spot, and the atmosphere feels like home.
What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture. It’s not just beautiful, it’s alive with color, identity, and expression. It represents the stories and struggles of a community that’s often overlooked, and that makes it incredibly meaningful to me.
What is your favorite Riverside small business? Riverside Food Lab (University Ave.) A hub of local food entrepreneurs doing their thing. It’s like a microcosm of Riverside, diverse, vibrant, and full of flavor.
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Operation SafeHouse. They’re doing critical work with youth in crisis. Their emergency shelter and wraparound services provide the safety net so many young people need.
The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night or maybe on a Tuesday? Every year on opening night, there’s nothing like that first burst of lights and energy in the air. It feels like the whole city comes alive with hope, and for a moment, everyone’s just together.
What is your go-to sandwich in town? D’Elia’s Grinders is the go-to, classic Riverside. Their hot pastrami with extra pickles on that signature crusty roll is unbeatable. It’s the kind of sandwich that brings comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside? A perfect weekend day in Riverside starts with an early morning walk up Mt. Rubidoux, watching the city wake up from the summit is grounding. Then it’s brunch at Anchos or Lift Coffee with good conversation. The afternoon would be spent connecting with community, maybe a pop-up event, a youth workshop, or just being present where I’m needed. And to close it out, a quiet evening at Ryan Bonaminio Park or catching the sunset from Fairmount Park. It’s a blend of movement, purpose and peace, just like Riverside itself.
What is your favorite spot for a date night? The Mission Inn remains a favorite, it’s timeless, intimate and full of history. Dinner at Duane’s or a stroll under the lights in the courtyard sets the tone for meaningful connection. It’s a place where you can slow down and be fully present.
Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? It’ll always be the Tyler Mall to me. Some names just stick, and it brings back memories of growing up, connecting with friends, and that sense of local pride that never fades.
What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? If I could bring back one place, it would be Castle Park’s old arcade in its prime. It was more than just games, it was where families, teens, and community gathered. There was a kind of joy and simplicity there that feels rare now.
If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? "Kindness is Power. Restoration is Possible. You Matter." Right there on the 91—so every person stuck in traffic or stuck in life gets a reminder that change starts with compassion.
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! Right now, we’re expanding our youth leadership pipeline and reentry services through Kindful Restoration, especially for those transitioning out of incarceration or foster care. We're working to make Riverside a “Kindness County,” where every individual has access to mental health care, housing, workforce opportunities, and genuine community support.
Readers can support by partnering with us, volunteering their time or skills, or even just spreading the word. If you're a business, consider mentoring or hiring someone who’s ready for a second chance. Visit kindfulrestoration.com to learn more or reach out, we believe real change happens in community, not isolation.
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
