Mt. Airy man helps keep his neighborhood safe

Mt. Airy resident Phil Weiser was happy to nominate Steve Stroiman as this week’s local hero.  Stroiman coordinates the Mt. Airy-Nippon-Bryan-Cresheim Town Watch.  Weiser, who is a member of the town watch, admires the work Stroiman does in the community. 

As a member of the town watch, I think Steve is a valuable leader and cares deeply about the well being of others. There were many times that I was very impressed with the way Steve assisted neighbors when they were facing an issue.

We caught up with Stroiman to learn more about the work he does with the Town Watch and in the community.

An enthusiastic Stroiman explained that he became involved with the Town Watch back in 1988 after a break-in at a local residence. “I wanted to be apart of the Town Watch because I felt as a community we had to do something to protect our neighborhood.” 

Stroiman says that for 24 years the Town Watch has done tremendous work to better the community and assist residents. He told us how when an elderly neighbor was unable to live on his own the group of neighbors came in to help as needed and worked to locate senior housing for the man. 

“We were also able to alert his distant brother who he hasn’t seen in 20 years, the brother said he was extremely grateful of us helping our neighbor,” said Stroiman.

If he is not directly assisting neighbors, Stroiman also plays a  role in community development and is not afraid to ask SEPTA and council for their support of the neighborhood.  He volunteers at the Mt. Airy Art Garage and is part of a group that meets for Jewish cultural, social and religious purposes.

When asked how he keeps up with his volunteer work and personal life Stroiman explained that he is an organized person and does not watch television. “There is too much work to be done, its important to contribute beyond one’s own self.”

The 67 year old retired teacher has no plans to stop volunteering. He believes in doing whatever he can to make the world a better place.

During our interview Stroiman made it clear that all of the neighbors he works with to make the community a better place to live are also local heroes. “It’s important to feel valuable and valued and we have created a real sense of community here in Mt. Airy.”

Do you know Steve Stroiman? Has he made a difference in your community? Leave a comment and let us know what you think.