Caldwell Foster: “People want a lot of things but God knows what we need.”
Caldwell Foster says, “Love means taking action.” And while the 73-year-old resident of Hoover Place doesn’t have a lot to give materially, he’s found his calling filling people’s hearts with hope and being of service to others.
You might call Caldwell Foster a handyman of both the physical and spiritual. The 73-year-old resident of Hoover Place, one of St. Mary Development Corporation’s low-income senior apartments, is well-versed in the Bible and home maintenance.
Caldwell’s neighbors often call on him to investigate heating system noises and other minor problems. He also helps clean apartments when residents move out and even fills in when the regular custodian is on vacation. But Caldwell’s real love is his Monday night Bible study and serving others.
“We have every denomination living in the building,” says Caldwell. “I help refuel their spirits. God couldn’t have sent me to a better place to serve.”
“Leader” is a word that has always described the athletically built senior. He was captain of his high school basketball team and editor of the school’s sports paper. He served in the military and was a mason in Huber Heights when most of the city’s houses were being built.
“We bricked 45 houses per week,” says Caldwell. “I was always put in charge of jobs. God gave me leadership ability.”
And he uses his leadership ability to bring hope to others. When residents hear his voice, they gather around him. He has an upbeat spirit and a thankful attitude for all he’s been given.
“I’ve never had money or a lot of things,” Caldwell said. “People want a lot of things but God knows what we need. I’m still waiting for God to send some money my way but I’ve learned to be content with what I have.”
He admires the work St. Mary Development Corporation has accomplished. “Fifty years ago, you couldn’t visualize a building like this serving seniors on the west side of Dayton,” he says. “Unless they want to put gold on the floors, I don’t know what else we could ask for. We have close fellowship. Nobody ever has to say they’re lonely. You don’t have to go outdoors to get places. It’s beautiful in the summertime. You can even have your groceries and medicine delivered.”
St. Mary Development Corporation and Caldwell have a similar mission: serving others out of love.
“Love means taking action,” he says. “We have the chance to be of service to others. I try to give of myself. I give people spiritual things. I’ve been blessed.”
Caldwell Foster’s attitude toward life is one everybody could benefit from: Be content with what you have. Be of service to others. Have a thankful heart. Put your love into action.
We work toward the day when
all residents of southwest Ohio -- especially the economically disadvantaged -- have a decent, affordable
place to live and become part of a thriving community.
