When Kim retired in 2019, she started taking morning walks with her dogs—and something surprising happened. She began meeting other neighbors she hadn’t encountered during her usual evening strolls. Like many dog owners, she quickly learned the names of everyone’s pets, but not always their humans. As the months went by, an idea began to form: what if she brought together the women in her neighborhood for something simple and meaningful?
And just like that, Ladies of the Hills was born.
Kim invited a few women from each street in the hills to join her for coffee, asking them to spread the word to others on their block. What started small slowly grew, and though the pandemic briefly paused things, the group resumed in 2022 with even more momentum. Today, about 50 women are involved, and each month a different neighbor volunteers to host. The format is simple—bring your own mug, maybe bring a friend, and spend time connecting. No agenda. No pressure. Just neighbors becoming friends.
Kim is the one behind the scenes, sending the invites and supporting each hostess along the way. Under her quiet leadership, Ladies of the Hills has become more than a monthly coffee klatch. It's a circle of support. Whether celebrating life’s joyful moments or navigating its challenges, these neighbors have come to count on one another—not just as neighbors, but as true friends.
What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside is my home. As a transplant from Illinois about 38 years ago, I initially saw Riverside as just a temporary stop. But over the years, my teaching career began and ended here with my retirement, I married the love of my life, my parents chose Riverside as their final home, and I’ve made many wonderful friends. Riverside is a beautiful, wonderfully diverse city, and we hope to age in place in our lovely neighborhood surrounded by dear friends.
What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? We love Monark Asian Bistro in the Canyon Crest Towne Centre. We’ve been going there to eat, enjoy a glass of wine, and visit with Karen (the owner) since 1991—back when it was called Little Emperor.
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center.
What is your go-to sandwich in town? Tio’s Tacos is such a fun and eclectic spot in Riverside. I know it’s not exactly a sandwich, but I love their chicken and beef hard shell tacos—they’re my go-to!
What is your favorite spot for a date night? Our backyard, with a glass of wine and our dogs.
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! If the Ladies of the Hills group has inspired you, I encourage you to look around and think about what you can do to create positive change in your own neighborhood. It has made such a meaningful difference in ours!
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
