A letter to our neighbors . . .
We've had an exciting year celebrating The Center's 30th Anniversary. And a busy one! We've had a Bowling Day, a Day at the Races, the Singing Florist, Music on the Lake, an open house at Watermark and of course, the Center a la Carte Birthday Bash.
This year long celebration helped us to remember all the things that have made The Center in Asbury Park what it is: the volunteers, who from the beginning, embraced the Mission, the passionate staff that has lived the Mission and the clients who helped us understand what we needed to do to be faithful to the Mission. The Center is what it is in 2022 because of so many.
For me, it has been an honor to be able to lead us all throughout these years. From the beginning when I was inspired to develop an organization to serve and care for people living with HIV/AIDS, it was the immediate support of so many that fueled the Mission.
After these wonderful and challenging 30 years, I have decided that it is time to retire! My retirement is effective January 1, 2023. The Board of Trustees has appointed Michael Roland, currently our Director of Operations, to assume the duty of Executive Director and lead The Center into future years.
I won't be far away! I will retain an office at The Center and have a place on the Board of Trustees. But I will be delighted to watch as Michael brings new energy and devotion to the Mission of The Center in Asbury Park.
Thank you for your support over these many years. I trust that you will continue to support The Center and continue to bring your energy to the work of The Center.
Peace,
Fr. Bob Kaeding
Founder, The Center in Asbury Park
the center. the future.
Dear Friends of The Center,
As you may know, Father Bob Kaeding is retiring as Executive Director of The Center. My time with The Center began when I became a volunteer in 2017, before I was hired as the Director of Operations. I am honored to step up as the Executive Director effective January 1, 2023.
My greatest impression from my time with The Center over these past five years is how deeply our staff and volunteers care about our clients and the work we do for the community. With the holidays upon us, many are looking to 2023 with hopes for good health and prosperity, yet so many in our community, particularly those living with HIV/AIDS, continue to struggle with life's most basic necessities, including shelter and food. This is why the work we do at The Center remains such an important service to Asbury Park and nearby communities.
The Center has an incredible team and a comprehensive menu of services that are critical to the wellbeing of those we serve. I am confident that we will continue to do good work, lifesaving work, and could not be more excited to lead The Center as Executive Director.
I appreciate your support and look forward to sharing new stories and news with you as 2023 progresses. I wish all of you a very merry Christmas, happy holidays and a happy New Year.
​
Michael Roland
The Center in Asbury Park