Elgin's Steve Kroiss Works 'Quietly' For Successes

ELGIN, IL — Without community leaders, Elgin wouldn’t hum along nearly as smoothly as it does. We’d miss their contributions in big and small ways.

Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to recognize these often unsung community leaders and celebrate their contributions.

This submission comes from Jennifer Fukala, an Elgin reader who nominated Steve Kroiss.

How do you know this community leader?

We work together in the community. He owns a business in downtown Elgin and expressed interest in getting involved in our work.

What does this community leader do?

Steve is the President of the Board of Directors of the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin. He also owns a tech business based in downtown Elgin and has served on many other local boards and committees.

Why do you believe the community leader should be recognized or honored?

Steve is quick to roll his sleeves up and give hands-on help, often with tasks and initiatives that are particularly challenging, tedious, or things no one else wants to do. His drive and determination to advocate for the community, especially downtown Elgin, has made it possible for our organization(DNA) to take on projects that previously had not been possible. Things like going after a state grant for strategic planning post covid and bringing other stakeholders with common goals forward to partner with us on projects.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the community hero?

He often works behind the scenes quietly making successes look like they just happened on their own. This often means he does not get as much credit for the successes as he deserves but he doesn't do it for the credit. He does it because he really wants to make good things happen for our community.

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Know a community leader who deserves a shout-out?

Nominate them here.