Robert first began volunteering with JFCS in March 2024. He and his wife, Barbara, live in Cherry Hill, where they raised their three children. Their youngest daughter, Jen Gerstein, currently serves as a Vice President on the JFCS Board of Directors. Robert is the President and Founder of United Production Group, a global event management and production company.
Robert became inspired to volunteer with JFCS after watching video about the Disabilities Department while attending “Stepping Out with JFCS,” the agency’s annual fundraiser. Robert chose to become a volunteer with the TOPS day habilitation program, spending several hours each week with the clients. To date, he has volunteered more than 150 hours with TOPS.
Robert wanted to do something “special” with the clients. Using his professional background and creative talents, he is working with TOPS clients and staff on producing a show, which also is an adaptation of a children’s book he authored. The show’s message is about how everyone is different and learning to embrace one’s unique abilities. Robert is volunteering his time to help the TOPS clients be involved with every aspect of the show, from practicing lines, costuming, and musical arrangement to technical blocking and videography. Robert says that he “looks forward to seeing the clients every week” and feels like he is “making a positive difference” to support our clients.
In addition to his weekly volunteering with TOPS, Robert more recently has been volunteering with our Soups & Sweets culinary training program and soon will be involved with SOAR as well. He also just became a Friendly Visitor to a client of our Older Adult Services Department.
JFCS staff members described Robert as “warm and approachable,” and emphasized that our clients “really love him,” affectionately referring to him as “Robbie.” Robert remarked that volunteering with JFCS has been “most fulfilling” and “changed his life!”
We are so lucky to have Robert as a volunteer of our agency! His dedication and commitment to our clients are making our community a better place.
