Mauryce A. Kennon has served the Riverside community for more than 32 years, working along the way as a youth counselor, violence intervention specialist, recreational leader, mentor, coach, and entrepreneur. Born and raised in Riverside, he founded FeedDemKids, a nonprofit that started small, with a group of friends adopting families for Christmas. Over the years it has grown to include back to school giveaways and holiday activities, along with support from several major sponsors, all while Mauryce stays hands on with the kids and families the organization serves. He also makes a point of including seniors in the community in his work.
Mauryce says he's guided by transparency, compassion, empathy, work ethos, and love, and by a belief that "the stronger the citizens, the stronger the community."
What does Riverside mean to you? Riverside means HOME! There's never any place like it! I carry an awful lot of pride for this city! It's where I was filled with hope and ambition, lost it all and was able to regain it! It means goals can be accomplished here, the hills can be hurdled, mountains removed and the opportunity to rebuild is alive and well! It also means that, I too must give it back to those in need of that same, but often very different, hope!
What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? 15 times
What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? Stratton Center! The memories of the innocent childhood alone keeps this the most absolute beautiful building in ALL of Riverside.
What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? Aidan's Army, FeedDemKids, MLK Senior Club
The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night or maybe on a Tuesday? Maybe on a Tuesday.
What is your go-to sandwich in town? D'Elia's Grinders or The Sub Station
What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside?Nice BBQ/Soul Food gathering with the family and friends!
Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Tyler Mall
If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? Kindness Cures! Try It And Be Healed!
Finally, tell us what you're working on right now and how our readers can support your efforts. Actively working on Motivational Madness 3! It's a Going Back To School Event designed to encourage and motivate our youth to chase their dream and to set goals. We use local prominent figures like Justices, Judges, Athletes and Businesses to inspire DemKids! We feed families and elders in need bi monthly by specific dietary needs. The families we feed we provide endless resources too and MORE.
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
