Fundraiser For 95-Year-Old 'Mayor' Of Upper West Side Nears Goal

UPPER WEST SIDE, NY — A fundraiser for an Upper West Side local legend passed $6,000 on Thursday in its effort to help the 95-year-old Theo Dixon.

Dixon, known by neighbors as the "Mayor of 71st Street and The Chairman of the Upper West Side Improvement Group," has been a staple of the Columbus Avenue block for years.

The World War II Marine veteran would generally be found on West 71st Street and Columbus every morning saying hi to kids on their way to school and letting them know he is "depending on them," according to the GoFundMe organized by Phillip Leeds.

Unfortunately, Dixon developed an ongoing problem with his foot during the pandemic, which has kept him stuck inside his house.

"Being outside was a lifeline for Theo, who thrives on the art of conversation," reads the GoFundMe.

As of Friday afternoon, 95 people have donated $6,025 to the fundraiser. The campaign has a goal of $10,000.

"Love you Theo! You're a lover not a fighter and I dearly miss seeing you on the street and being able to talk with you as you adore all the children ("our future") and dogs," one person wrote after donating. "Sending you tons of love."

You can find out more about the fundraiser for Dixon here.

The WestSideRag was the first to report on the GoFundMe for the beloved neighborhood figure.

Editor's Note: GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner