Margie Haupt has called Riverside home since 1999, and from the very beginning, she embraced the city’s unique mix of big-city opportunities and small-town heart. She’s the kind of neighbor who jumps in wherever she’s needed—whether it’s supporting Girl Scouts, volunteering for Special Olympics Southern California, helping out at schools and PTSA events, or lending her time to National Charity League and Sunrise Rotary. For Margie, connecting with people and giving back has always been second nature.
That spirit carries into her work with the City of Riverside, where she leads efforts to make arts and culture accessible and welcoming to all. She and her team help bring everything from public art and local performances to beloved traditions like the Festival of Lights to life, while also supporting projects like The Cheech and creating opportunities for local artists to shine.
But ask her neighbors, and they’ll tell you Margie is just as extraordinary outside the office. She’s the kind of friend who won’t just lend you a cup of sugar—she’ll give you a whole pound so you never run out. She’s thoughtful, generous, and always looking for ways to brighten someone’s day, whether through a kind word, a surprise gift, or by simply showing up when needed.
Margie Haupt has a way of making Riverside feel more connected, more creative, and more caring—and our community is better because she’s here.
What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside means home. It’s where I built my family, where we’ve been surrounded by care, comfort, love, laughter, and friendships. It’s a place where we live, work, and play together as part of a wonderful community.
What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? 25.
What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? Mamma Mia.
What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? I’m partial to the Main Library. I love how you can look out over Riverside and see the art from the street. It’s also surrounded by great neighbors like the Fox Performing Arts Center, The Box, RCC Coil School for the Arts, The Civil Rights Institute of Inland Southern California, and local businesses.
What is your favorite Riverside small business? Division 9 Gallery and Tio's Tacos.
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Not sure I can pick just one...
The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night or maybe on a Tuesday? Every night… LOL
What is your go-to sandwich in town? Butch's Grinders – roast beef with avocado and everything on it.
What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside? A workout at Vim and Vigor, a visit to Corona Farms, lunch with my family and our dog Sadie at home with sandwiches from Sub Station, a relaxing afternoon of reading, dinner with close friends, either dining out or picking up takeout, we all take turns choosing (recent favorites have been Dapper, Mamma Mia’s, Dos Hermanos, and more).
What is your favorite spot for a date night? Our friends’ backyards—listening to music, laughing about life, and sharing stories, whether in the Wood Streets, Victoria Woods, or Downtown.
Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Tyler Mall.
What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? Nordstrom’s.
If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? Riverside: The Best Place to Work, Live, and Play!
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! Growing and supporting the arts in our community. How can you help? Buy art from local artists, attend performances, visit museums, shop artisan vendors, and attend the special events that so many wonderful organizations and artists create each year. Support the organizations that grow and sustain the arts—and most of all, have fun!
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
