Her father served for three years in the Civil War; and upon his return from the army, the family moved from Philadelphia to New York City, where Rivera lived until 1912.

It was in recognition of her services that the Federation created the title of Founder for her and made her honorary President for life.

[2] Representing New York, in 1904, Rivera attended the 36th Annual Convention of the National-American Woman Suffrage Association, held in Washington, D.C., February 11–17.

She assisted in the establishment of the working girls' hotel on West 22nd Street, New York City, and was President of the board of directors for seven years after its foundation.

[2] A tree in the New York City Federation of Women's Club's groves in Central Park was planted in Rivera's honor.