Lori Yates is most proud of her longtime involvement with Master Gardeners and Victoria Avenue Forever, where she served as chairwoman of both organizations for many years. A central focus of her leadership was involving young people in community service, working with the city and local schools to encourage youth participation in service projects for more than two decades.
Elected to the Victoria Avenue Forever (VAF) Board in 1997, Lori went on to hold numerous leadership roles, including Recording Secretary, Vice President, and two terms as President. She was instrumental in securing Victoria Avenue’s placement on the National Register of Historic Places in 2002 and played a key role in projects such as the installation of the Avenue’s irrigation drip system and the design of the Hal Snyder Garden.
Over the years, Lori contributed extensively to the Victoria Avenews newsletter, coordinated volunteers, trained youth, and acted as a liaison with nearly 20 local organizations ranging from the Boy Scouts and National Charity League to Riverside County planning groups and the Chamber of Commerce. She also served as Master of Ceremonies at major VAF events, including the kiosk dedication honoring Dr. Peter Lewis in 2003.
Whether organizing tree plantings, developing educational programs, or advocating for Riverside’s historic treasures, Lori’s leadership and dedication have left a lasting mark on the city. Her decades of service reflect her deep commitment to protecting Riverside’s natural beauty and inspiring the next generation of community volunteers.
What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside feels like home. It is a warm and welcoming community where we always seem to find everything we need.
What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? Too many to count. My mom has been climbing Mt. Rubidoux since she came to Riverside in 1960 to attend UCR.
What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? Olivia’s.
What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? The Heritage House.
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Victoria Avenue Forever.
What is your go-to sandwich in town? Backstreet.
Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Tyler Mall.
What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? Sears.
If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? Welcome to Riverside.
Neighbor of the Week and Local Legends 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
