At the time, Richard was working in Toronto as the CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment (MSLE). In his role as CEO Richard was responsible for the Maple Leafs, Raptors, Toronto FC, the Toronto Marlies, Air Canada Centre, BMO Field, all business matters and three television channels.

Not long after he retired in 2012, he was approached by Amherstburg Mayor Aldo DiCarlo to lead the town’s community foundation.

“The goal of the foundation is to build a strong, safe community. That meshed with my values: creating places to gather, share ideas, educate and build confidence,” Richard said.

No stranger to hard work and leadership Richard agreed, and so began his “active retirement."

Since that time, more than a quarter of a million dollars has been raised to be invested in the community.

Richard and Colleen share a vision for a vibrant downtown.

They purchased a dilapidated 1885 Victorian building at 67 Richmond Street in the heart of downtown, now home to the River Bookshop.

Richard Peddie (Photo by Michael Wilkins/UWINDSOR)

“We started with the shop because I believe that the heart of a community begins with a great library and a great bookstore.”

Richard himself has written two books—21 Leadership Lessons: Successes, Failures and Discoveries from a Life in Business and Sports and Dream Job: My Wild Ride on the Corporate side with the Leafs.

The exterior of the shop has been fully restored but the original character of the interior has been left intact.

The bookshop houses much of the lower level together with a fireplace and an alcove for children complete with comfy pillows and a table and chairs for seating. Upstairs, the Hole in the Wall is a space for people to gather to listen to a host of speakers on a wide range of topics including history, climate change, racial equality, nature and mental wellness.

“The space comfortably seats 30 (pre-social distancing requirements) and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology that will allow individuals worldwide to join the conversation with the 30 speakers we have lined up to speak when it is safe to do so," Richard said.

They also own the building at 248 Ramsey St. which houses The Panetteria. The bakery specializes in artisan bread, pastries and offers light lunches.

A gathering space with a bistro vibe is planned in the adjoining alley.

Wall murals in the alley, painted by local artists, are also a part of the vision.

Richard Peddie (Photo by Michael Wilkins/UWINDSOR)

Most recently, Richard is the co-chair of a group of residents and experts spearheading the Thrive! Amherstburg, initiative. The acronym stands for Timeless, Healthy, Relevant, Inspired, Valued and Engaged.

Developed on the foundation of Placemaking, which capitalizes on a local community’s assets, inspiration and potential with the intention of creating public spaces that promote people’s health, happiness and well-being. The goal is to position Amherstburg as an affordable, vibrant, sustainable community and tourism destination.

“It’s no small undertaking but we can start with manageable pieces like creating green spaces, safe pedestrian and cycling routes, initiatives that contribute to reducing our carbon footprint and support climate change," Richard said. "Respect for historic structures, arts and culture, tourism initiatives. These measures are the catalysts for long-term change.”

Richard and Colleen are enjoying the slower-paced lifestyle that historic Amherstburg offers.

“We’re happy to have the means to invest in the future of the community and to work together with the community to develop a strong and sustainable legacy.”