[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 47 (Friday, March 15, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E255]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING ROBERT FOSTER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 15, 2024

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a constituent 
who has dedicated decades of service to our community through his 
commitment to the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, Mr. Robert Foster. For 
forty-seven years, Robert played an integral role, shaping the lives of 
countless young people in our district. ``Mr. Bob'', as he is 
affectionately referred to, announced his retirement in December of 
2023 after serving as Executive Director for seventeen years. The Boys 
and Girls Club of Clifton is right to honor his legacy at their Annual 
Great Futures Gala.
  Mr. Foster's involvement with the Boys & Girls Club began at the age 
of five when he followed his older brothers to the Club in Kingston, 
New York. Inspired and grateful for the coaching, mentoring, and 
encouragement he received, Mr. Foster knew from a young age that he 
would continue his participation by pursuing a career in the Boys & 
Girls Club of America (BGCA).
  After obtaining a Bachelor of Science from Springfield College, Mr. 
Foster started his career in the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton. He 
served as the first full-time Social Recreation/Team Director. During 
this time, Mr. Foster fulfilled diverse roles such as Swim Instructor, 
Coach, Program Director, Operations Director, and Assistant Executive 
Director. By 2006, Mr. Foster earned his Masters of Human Resource 
Development at Clemson University and was appointed as Executive 
Director at the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton. His work for the Boys & 
Girls Club expanded beyond Clifton serving as the Acting Director of 
the City of Garfield from 2007 to 2009 as well as the Treasurer and 
member of the Executive Board of the Boys & Girls Club of New Jersey.
  As Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton, Mr. 
Foster's leadership contributed to the Club's growth ultimately 
accumulating 5,400 registered members. He collaborated with the Board 
of Trustees to manage an operational budget of $6.4 million which 
accounted for 28 full-time and 175 part-time staff members, all program 
operations, and the appointment of a new chief executive officer. 
During his tenure, Mr. Foster partnered with the Clifton Board of 
Education to establish the Minds in Motion, 21st Century Grant for 
Schools No. 4, No. 12, and No. 17. Mr. Foster embodied the values of 
service over self and effectively empowered our youth by fostering 
their personal and academic growth.
  Outside of the Boys & Girls Club, Mr. Foster's community service 
throughout the years includes his involvement in Clifton's Interagency 
Council, the Passaic County Workforce Development Council, Clifton 
Optimist Club, Rotary Club of Clifton, and his work as a Commissioner 
with the Clifton Board of Recreation.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join our colleagues, Mr. Foster's family, 
friends, and all those whose lives he has touched in recognizing Robert 
Foster for his dedication and contributions to his community and the 
State of New Jersey. May his work be a guiding light in our community 
and inspire others to strive for excellence in service.

                          ____________________