Hillcrest, La Sierra and Norte Vista are now in our Back to School collection, meet Neighbor of the Week Katie Wider. Plus, Anthony Solorzano’s series continues and this week’s creative prompt is “New Paint Job.”
Katie smiles warmly at the base of Mt. Rubidoux, the iconic landmark she's climbed over 1,600 times and helped preserve through decades of volunteer service with Friends of Mt. Rubidoux. (Brenda Flowers)
Katie has called Riverside home since 1971 and has spent more than five decades volunteering across the community. Her first volunteer work began with art activities for disabled adults at the Swiss Inn, and later expanded to the Riverside City & County Literacy Program, where her efforts helped both adults and children overcome illiteracy and other learning challenges. In 1995, her dedication was recognized with a JCPenney Golden Rule Award supporting the Literacy Program.
Katie’s volunteer work also includes long-term commitments to the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center and Friends of Mt. Rubidoux. At MSRPAC, she has supported countless fundraisers, helped launch the Spay/Neuter Clinic, participated in weekly and monthly animal wellness programs, and served on the board during the building of the new Pet Adoption Center. At Friends of Mt. Rubidoux, she has been a longtime board member, newsletter editor, and creator of an educational coloring book for children. Her contributions have helped preserve, restore, and celebrate Mt. Rubidoux Park for generations of visitors.
Beyond her extensive volunteering, Katie is deeply connected to Riverside’s history, culture, and community spirit. From walking Mt. Rubidoux over 1,600 times to supporting local businesses, she embodies the city’s values of service, stewardship, and engagement. Whether through animal welfare, education, or historic preservation, Katie’s decades of dedication make her a true cornerstone of Riverside.
What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside is a good place to live. It feels comfortable because of its traditions, values, services, and community-focused people. Riverside provides generous opportunities to contribute and make a difference.
What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? 1,612
What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? The Rustik Fork (Mission Grove).
What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? Riverside Municipal Auditorium
What is your favorite Riverside small business? Tonkin Plumbing, their service is true to their mission.
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center.
What is your go-to sandwich in town? Butch's Grinders – tuna on squaw with everything on it.
Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Hybrid – Tyler Galleria.
What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? The store MADE.
If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? An ounce of prevention is worth an IMpound of cure. Please spay/neuter your pets.
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!Helping Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center!
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
