Bob’s Story
Bob Salerno Vice President and Acting President
A successful business leader for many years, Bob chose to dedicate his heart and countless hours to serving his community. For the past 25 years, he has been a Big part of the Abington Township Police Department, helping establish the Police Athletic League (PAL) in 2001. From the very beginning, he played a vital role in building the program into what it is today, and even after all these years, he remains actively involved every weekend as site director. Through his leadership in the police department’s Community Service Program, he helped countless young people earn a second chance, encouraging accountability while steering them away from trouble. More importantly, he worked tirelessly to build trust and lasting relationships between youth and law enforcement, creating bridges of understanding that continue to strengthen the community. Bob has also devoted countless hours to Angels in Motion, an organization committed to helping individuals struggling with substance use disorder, especially those experiencing homelessness.
In January 2025, alongside his dear friend, Hope Danoff, Bob helped launch Building Bridges With Hope, serving as its Vice President. Together they shared a vision of helping those facing homelessness, veterans in need, individuals struggling with mental health challenges, and anyone searching for hope and dignity. When Hope unexpectedly passed away in October 2025, Bob experienced the heartbreaking loss of both a cherished friend and a remarkable leader. Rather than allowing her dream to end, he stepped forward with courage and determination, carrying the organization forward through one of its most difficult moments. Today, Building Bridges With Hope continues to grow because of his steadfast commitment to preserving Hope's vision and ensuring her legacy continues to change lives thanks to Bob and his great team.
Over the years, Bob's extraordinary service has earned him numerous awards and commendations from the Abington Township Police Department, Montgomery County, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, members of the United States Congress, the NAACP, Citizens That Care, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and many other organizations. Among his most remarkable honors is the Golden Heart Association Award. Bob holds the unique distinction of being the only individual to have received this prestigious award twice, with an incredible 23 year span between the two recognitions, a testament to a lifetime of consistent service and compassion. Through all this he also raised three wonderful children, and now has five grandchildren. As he always says, “it's been a great run,” but from now on, it'll be a very brisk walk with a laugh.