Neighbor of the Week: Dee Keoski

Dee Keoski has called Riverside home for 40 years. She and her husband raised their children here, and Dee’s deep commitment to the community has been evident through her many volunteer efforts. From working with the Salvation Army in the late 1980s to serving as a PTA officer and helping build a library in Woodcrest, Dee’s dedication to Riverside is unwavering. After earning her Bachelor's, Master's, and teaching credentials, she spent years as a public school teacher, finishing her career in Corona before retiring.

Dee has volunteered and worked for the Janet Goeske Center for many years, assisting Riverside senior citizens with everything from navigating the DMV website to assessing housing options for seniors in the area. As a kindly clever neighbor, she continues to serve as a Senior Resource Advisor at the Goeske Center, helping seniors navigate complex systems and advocating for their needs.

What does Riverside mean to you? I’m originally from the East Coast, and after living in several Southern California cities, Riverside stood out for its clear identity and history. I became a Realtor and learned every neighborhood in Riverside, which deepened my connection to this community. I now work with seniors at the Janet Goeske Center, and I am so proud of Riverside’s strong social safety nets. There's still work to be done for our senior community, but I’m excited to be part of that journey.

What is your Mt. Rubidoux summit count (estimated)? Two.

What is your favorite restaurant outside of Downtown or Magnolia Center? Sam's Pita and Kabob on Magnolia.

What is the most beautiful building in Riverside? An adobe-style home in Hawarden Hills.

What is your favorite Riverside small business? Miss Tiggy-Winkles.

What is your favorite Riverside non-profit organization? The Janet Goeske Foundation & Senior Center.

The Festival of Lights: Every year on opening night or maybe on a Tuesday? Mid-week during the last week.

What is your go-to sandwich in town? Anything at Backstreet.

What is your idea of a perfect weekend day in Riverside? Shopping downtown, stopping at Miss Tiggy-Winkles and Mission Galleria, then grabbing a sandwich at Simple Simon's.

What is your favorite spot for a date night? Home!

Do you call it the Galleria or Tyler Mall? Tyler Mall.

What is one place in Riverside you would bring back if you could? Lord Charley’s.

If you could put one message on a billboard on the 91, what would it be? "Be nice!"

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! Our seniors face critical challenges, including a severe affordable housing shortage. If you own property, consider renting to a senior and accepting voucher payments from the county. Please consider donating to the Janet Goeske Center or volunteering—we are a private non-profit serving Riverside’s seniors and constantly expanding our programs. Your time and support make a real difference!

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