Bob Houghtaling Foundation
The East Greenwich Academy Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the well-being of youth and families in the community, is proud to announce it has officially changed its name to the Bob Houghtaling Foundation in honor of the late Bob Houghtaling, the organization’s longtime leader and one of East Greenwich’s most beloved public servants.
Houghtaling, who passed away in December 2023, served as the town’s Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Director for over three decades and was known for his deep compassion, tireless advocacy, and creative approach to youth engagement and community building. He joined the EGAF board in the early 1990s and served as its president from 2012 until his passing.
“Bob would be delighted,” said Elaine Arts, Bob’s wife and a board member. “He loved this town and its people. I know he would be honored that we are carrying on his work in this way.”
Under Houghtaling’s leadership, EGAF supported programs ranging from the Teen Center and field trips to concerts and museums, to essential needs like food drives and mental health advocacy. His work was rooted in the belief that helping people meant addressing their sense of purpose and belonging, not just their challenges.
“Bob’s impact on this community is immeasurable,” said Christine King, current board president and Houghtaling’s mentee. “He believed that by empowering people, especially young people, we could build a healthier, more connected town. This name change ensures his legacy will continue to inspire and support generations to come.”
Founded in 1989 by Barbara Tufts and Janet Joyce, the foundation’s mission has evolved over the years. It began as an effort to create a community center, and now it is “to support youth and families by investing in their well-being, and to empower a thriving community by providing resources, support, and opportunities for enrichment.”
As The Bob Houghtaling Foundation, the organization will continue to embody the spirit of its namesake, one of hope, humanity, and healing.
To learn more or support the Foundation’s work, visit bobhoughtalingfoundation.org.
Houghtaling, who passed away in December 2023, served as the town’s Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Director for over three decades and was known for his deep compassion, tireless advocacy, and creative approach to youth engagement and community building. He joined the EGAF board in the early 1990s and served as its president from 2012 until his passing.
“Bob would be delighted,” said Elaine Arts, Bob’s wife and a board member. “He loved this town and its people. I know he would be honored that we are carrying on his work in this way.”
Under Houghtaling’s leadership, EGAF supported programs ranging from the Teen Center and field trips to concerts and museums, to essential needs like food drives and mental health advocacy. His work was rooted in the belief that helping people meant addressing their sense of purpose and belonging, not just their challenges.
“Bob’s impact on this community is immeasurable,” said Christine King, current board president and Houghtaling’s mentee. “He believed that by empowering people, especially young people, we could build a healthier, more connected town. This name change ensures his legacy will continue to inspire and support generations to come.”
Founded in 1989 by Barbara Tufts and Janet Joyce, the foundation’s mission has evolved over the years. It began as an effort to create a community center, and now it is “to support youth and families by investing in their well-being, and to empower a thriving community by providing resources, support, and opportunities for enrichment.”
As The Bob Houghtaling Foundation, the organization will continue to embody the spirit of its namesake, one of hope, humanity, and healing.
To learn more or support the Foundation’s work, visit bobhoughtalingfoundation.org.
Rhode Island FC Trip
We had an amazing Teen Center trip to the Rhode Island FC game at the brand new stadium in Pawtucket! The kids got to go out on the field to greet the players, Sulina started a few dance parties, and everyone enjoyed a great soccer game! Thanks to Josh Wolff and the East Greenwich Rotary Club for the support in providing this great opportunity!
URI vs UMass
We took a trip to the Ryan Center for the URI vs UMass basketball game! We had an amazing time a great game by Rhode Island Men's Basketball! We made it on to the big screen and many of the kids got to meet players (and an NBA legend)!
Thank you to everyone who helped make it a great experience! URI Welcome Center Ryan Center East Greenwich Community Services & Parks Department And all the adults who organized the trip, got people there, filled us with snacks, and made sure everyone had a special day! |
The Tara Granahan Show
Bob Houghtaling and Ken Walsh were guests on the Tara Granahan show discussing issues pertaining to the Opioid Crisis.