Riverside nonprofit sees peak demand for student services as families prepare for new school year, with thrift shop profits funding comprehensive programs for referred children.
Another golden evening graces our beautiful city, as the day gently fades into twilight. (Susan C. Freeman) Have a photo that captures the spirit of Riverside? Share it with us and help celebrate the beauty of our community!
Tuesday Gazette: August 26, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Tuesday! Today we’re sending love to all our nonprofits who make this city stronger. The HHS Nonprofit Collaborative Resource Fair is happening this morning from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Hunt Park Community Center. Stop by to connect with local organizations, enjoy raffles and snacks and see firsthand the incredible work being done for our community.
Vicky Tafoya, a cherished local soul singer known for her powerful voice and emotional performances, lost a battle with cancer on Sunday, August 24, 2025, and she will be missed. Her ability to connect with audiences and convey deep emotions through her music left a lasting impact on the Riverside community.
Driving the news: Tafoya's recent performances, including an intimate outdoor show at the Cheech and a final appearance at the Farmhouse, showcased her enduring talent and dedication to her craft despite health challenges.
Her rendition of "We Belong Together" during a light rain at ArtsWalk became a memorable moment for attendees.
Why it matters: Tafoya's voice was described as a "rare gift" that could reach parts of the human spirit in unique ways, helping listeners navigate both joy and pain.
Her performances were characterized by authenticity, allowing audiences to see and feel the love and emotion she poured into her music.
The bottom line: Tafoya's legacy as a soul singer who could "make you feel" will continue to resonate with those who experienced her performances and heard her voice.
Her contribution to the local music scene is remembered as "a gift for eternity," leaving a lasting impact on the Riverside community.
Assistance League Sees Back-to-School Demand Surge for Student Services
Riverside nonprofit sees peak demand for student services as families prepare for new school year, with thrift shop profits funding comprehensive programs for referred children.
Assistance League of Riverside is approaching its 60th year of helping local students attend school with dignity. (Ken Crawford)
The Assistance League of Riverside is preparing for its busiest season as families seek support for the new school year. The all-volunteer nonprofit, operating since 1966, funds its programs entirely through profits from its Sunnyside Drive thrift shop.
Driving the news: Demand for student support services peaks among referred children across the region during the back-to-school period.
Programs include "Hearts and Hands" for clothing and essentials, financial literacy education, "Operation School Bell," and the "Snack Attack" food program.
Why it matters: The organization's volunteer-driven model allows for quick response to community needs without administrative overhead.
100% of thrift shop proceeds directly support services.
The details: The thrift shop at 3707 Sunnyside Drive is open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Donations are accepted Monday and Wednesday mornings and Saturday mornings.
What's next: The Riverside chapter, one of nearly 100 in the National Assistance League, will celebrate 60 years of service in 2026 with special events.
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City reviews downtown redevelopment and $4M road repair contract, Museum of Riverside explores Victorian medical quackery and Meliia’s GoFundMe update.
