Friends, Fellowship, and Giving

In 1975, I transferred to a new high school and began what have become lifelong friendships with a great group of guys. Growing up together, we played sports, went to movies, camped in the Southern Tier of New York, celebrated holidays, and built decades of memories.

Over the years – through college, marriages, the deaths of family members, the births of our children, and moves to other states across the country – we’ve stayed connected. We planned yearly get-togethers, first bringing our young children and wives, and later just the guys.

Today, we live in Boston, Cleveland, Seattle, Sacramento, San Clemente, Syracuse, and South Jersey, where I call home. Having them in my life has been a blessing in so many ways, including their support of the Food Bank of South Jersey.

When I had the privilege and honor to serve as the CEO of the Food Bank of South Jersey, these same friends supported me and our community, even from across the country. At our yearly get-togethers, we hold a golf competition, with the winning team donating their winnings to the Food Bank.

They also contribute throughout the year, turning football, baseball, and basketball bets into a fun way to support the Food Bank of South Jersey with the loser donating. Over the years, these contributions have collectively provided more than 12,000 meals!

The group’s creative way of supporting the growing needs in South Jersey – one competition at a time – means so much to me.

Maybe you and your social group, family members, book club, quilting group, running club, or another community can also come up with a fun and exciting way to contribute to a cause you’re passionate about.

– Fred C. Wasiak,
President & CEO