As we enter a new year in Northwest Philadelphia, one truth guides us: Strong communities are built by people who show up for each other, year after year. In East Mt. Airy, that spirit is our legacy.

On Dec. 18, 2025, East Mt. Airy Neighbors (EMAN) held its End-of-Year Membership Meeting and Community Meal at the very place where, 60 years ago, the Rev. Rudolph C. Gelsey asked: “East Mt. Airy: Slum, Ghetto, or Good Place to Live?”

That question sparked meetings, debates, and plans that led to EMAN’s founding on Jan. 18, 1966, with the Rev. Gelsey as its first president. Today, we honor that legacy by continuing the work together, answering the question with clarity: “East Mt. Airy is a good place to live because we make it so.”

A new chapter of leadership

In September 2025, EMAN elected a new leadership team:

President: Ericka Stewart – community advocate, small-business owner, and public servant committed to housing stability, economic empowerment, and community growth.

Vice President: Dimka Braswell – respected leader connecting residents to resources and safety initiatives.

Secretary: Linda Bell – lifelong Mt. Airy resident whose dedication strengthens EMAN’s operations and outreach.

This team honors EMAN’s historic values of participation and cooperation while bringing fresh energy to the challenges ahead.

EMAN: Committed to community

Now in its fifth decade, EMAN responds creatively to challenges while holding fast to its vision: “People are the most important part of the community, and everyone can help ‘Make a Good Community Better.’”

Our commitment to justice, fairness, and a stronger Mt. Airy continues daily.

2026 priorities

This year, our focus is on connection, stabilization, and community care. Rising housing costs, public safety, and family pressures are ongoing concerns. EMAN is strengthening partnerships with URDC, West Mt. Airy Neighbors, and families affected by recent fires, advocating for their access to safe, affordable housing, and guiding them to resources and legal protections. Housing stability remains urgent.

Philadelphia250 & empowerment

EMAN proudly participates in Philadelphia250, ensuring Northwest Philadelphia’s history, diversity, and civic leadership are represented in the nation’s 250th celebration. Economic empowerment is central to our mission: “Supporting small, community-rooted, Black-owned, and mission-driven businesses strengthens our neighborhood and ensures prosperity is shared.”

Belonging & civic participation

Mt. Airy’s reputation for intentional diversity and neighborly engagement reflects decades of collective effort. In 2026, we aim to ensure every resident — longtime or new — feels welcomed, included, and empowered to shape the future of our community.

Sixty years ago, the Rev. Gelsey challenged our community with a question that became our mandate. Today, we honor that legacy not only by remembering it but by continuing the work — together.