Neighbor of the Week: Michael J. Elderman
Each week, we will introduce a new neighbor. This is not a who's who list. These are regular Riversiders doing exceptional things.
Booker joins Hass Ratnayake, Patrick Maloney, and Philip Falcone as the fourth candidate running for the seat currently held by Erin Edwards.
Kayla Booker, a small business owner, nonprofit founder, and daughter of Veterans, aims to make history as the first African-American woman elected to the Riverside City Council. If successful, she will continue a legacy of over 30 years where a person of color has represented the Eastside, now a part of Ward 1 following redistricting, on the City Council.
In a statement, Booker emphasized her commitment to public service, citing a track record of assisting residents, supporting small businesses, fostering community collaboration, and celebrating the city's rich diversity. She outlined her priorities: "I am running for Riverside City Council to fight for our neighborhoods, deliver results and resources to residents, and address critical issues such as homelessness and public safety."
Booker's early endorsers include local leaders such as Riverside City Councilmember Clarissa Cervantes, community leaders Erin Snyder and Tanya Humphrey, and Pepi Jackson, CEO/President of the Riverside County Black Chambers of Commerce.
Kayla founded the BLACK Collective, a nonprofit organization that provides education, services, resources, and referrals to the public and those battling homelessness. Employed with SBX Youth and Family Services, Booker's work equips underserved youth with skills to navigate life challenges. She is also the owner-operator of Kayla's Healing Hands. Booker, a graduate of Riverside Community College and the American College of Health Care, graduated Magna Cum Laude as a certified massage therapist.
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