Neighbor of the Week: Laniea Dominguez

Laniea Dominguez has been working in the City of Riverside for nearly two decades — but it wasn't until about six years ago that she finally made it home. And once she did, she dove in headfirst. Here at the Raincross Gazette, we know Laniea as the newest member of our staff — more on that tomorrow.

With more than 20 years in advertising and marketing, Laniea has worked with an impressive range of clients — from cities and hospitals to casinos and automotive brands — helping businesses across Southern California grow their reach and impact.

But Laniea's impact on the community goes well beyond her professional work. In 2011, she founded Comedy for Causes, a fundraising initiative that does exactly what its name suggests: uses the power of laughter to lift up those in need. Through live comedy events and community partnerships, the program has helped raise over $500,000 for nonprofit organizations — and earned coverage from FOX 11 News, Spectrum News, and LA Voyage Magazine along the way.

These days, Laniea is channeling that same energy toward a cause close to her heart: raising funds and awareness for Riverside's unhoused community. If you've ever wanted proof that creativity and compassion make a powerful combination, look no further.

What does Riverside mean to you? Something I've noticed since moving here is how much the people who live here love the City of Riverside! I'll take walks around my neighborhood and see the Raincross logo displayed in people's yards, on their mailboxes. I appreciate the culture and diversity, as well as all the art and the array of eateries.

What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count? OK, so I actually live around the corner — so I have no excuse! I've probably hiked it over 100 times since I've lived here.

What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? My favorite restaurant is Pepitos Mexican inside the Canyon Crest Town Center.

What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? I love the Fox Theatre!

What is your favorite Riverside small business? The apothecary store in Downtown Riverside. It smells incredible and has a great variety of soaps, lotions, and gifts.

What is your favorite Riverside nonprofit organization? My favorite nonprofit is DVAP — Domestic Violence Abuse Protection. They do incredible things and I'm glad to support them!

The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night, or maybe on a Tuesday? I love this event — however, the last few times I attended it was a bit chaotic, so chances are I'll just enjoy it from afar next time.

What is your go-to sandwich in town? Backstreet is hands-down the best sandwich place in town!

What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside? A hike up Mount Rubidoux, a yummy breakfast at Simple Simon's, followed by a massage at Kelly's Spa inside the Mission Inn — and dinner at Dapper's Lounge.

What is your favorite spot for a date night? I like to get together for some appetizers and a drink at the Sire.

Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? The Galleria at Tyler.

What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? Table for Two restaurant!

If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? Download Audible — because you'll need it to kill time while sitting on the 91.

Finally, tell us what you're working on right now and how our readers can support your efforts. My passion project is Comedy for Causes, where I produce and perform comedy shows to raise funds for nonprofits and those in need. A cause that's really close to my heart right now is the unhoused community. I would love to find a way to help raise funds and awareness in an effort to give them a warm place to sleep.

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