Returning to South Jersey after retirement gave Bob Stern the chance to channel his professional experience into something deeply meaningful.
“Moving back felt like a new chapter,” he shared. “Joining the Community FoodBank of New Jersey was the perfect fit. It gave me a renewed sense of purpose.”
Bob’s involvement with hunger-relief work dates back to his professional career, where he served as general counsel for a large food service company.
“Our company sponsored an anti-hunger foundation,” he explained. “I was on the board for 25 years, even serving as its Chair. That work laid the foundation for my commitment to fighting hunger.”
When Bob returned to New Jersey in 2018, a friend introduced him to the CFBNJ team.
“I joined the Advisory Board at CFBNJ’s Egg Harbor Township location and quickly got involved in various committees,” he said. “Over time, I’ve also co-chaired the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Committee, working alongside the governance team to recruit board members and foster an inclusive environment.”
Bob’s work at CFBNJ has also provided a front-row seat to the organization’s adaptability, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I remember the food distributions at Bader Field,” he recalled. “The lines were incredibly long, filled with people who had never needed assistance before. It was heartbreaking, but also inspiring to see how the FoodBank rose to the occasion, adapting its operations to provide critical help during a crisis.”
Looking ahead, Bob hopes to see CFBNJ continue evolving to meet the needs of New Jersey communities.
“The FoodBank is indispensable,” he said. “It’s constantly innovating, becoming more data-driven, and finding new ways to address food insecurity. While we all wish for a day when it’s no longer necessary, the reality is that its role remains vital.”
Reflecting on his journey, Bob summed it up: “CFBNJ is a safety net for so many people. It’s reassuring to know that when other systems fall short, the FoodBank is there to help. Being part of this mission has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.”
