Meet the Champions for Mental Health in Long Beach

From the baseball diamond to city hall, Nancy and Bob Foster have spent decades planting seeds of hope for Long Beach families. Together, they have shown us what it means to lead with compassion, purpose, dedication, and unwavering commitment. While the Fosters’ legacy may speak for itself, many still wonder what continues to inspire them to do this deeply personal work.

The Guidance Center had the opportunity to sit down with Nancy and Bob to talk about their “why” and learn more about their vision for a more hopeful future for Long Beach. This conversation comes just weeks before they will be honored with the inaugural Tim Sailor Legacy Award at our Sunset Sip 2025: Planting Seeds of Hope, happening Saturday, May 3 at Hotel Maya from 6–10 PM.

Nancy: Her Journey to Becoming a Mental Health Advocate

“Mental health isn’t just something I care about — it’s something I’ve lived. My hope is that by sharing our story, more families feel seen, understood, and less alone” -Nancy Foster

Nancy brings heart and intention to everything she does—from motherhood to public service to her role as a mental health advocate.

Her own mental health journey has shaped how she connects with others. After being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Nancy became passionate about raising awareness and breaking stigma. Her story proves that vulnerability can also be a source of strength. Even after more than a decade of championing youth mental health and public education, her passion remains deeply personal.

So, how did she first connect with The Guidance Center?

Through a recommendation from longtime board member and close friend Tim Sailor, Nancy attended an event focused on early intervention for children and families. She immediately recognized that The Guidance Center was, as she described it, “a place where both kids and families could find genuine care without judgment.” Shortly after, she joined the board of directors in 2011 and has been an integral part of our mission ever since.

Bob’s Path: From Baseball Fields to City Hall

“Whether it’s a ballplayer or a neighbor, I show up when someone needs me. That’s how we grow by helping one another” -Bob Foster

Bob’s story is rooted in community. As a Little League coach, he saw firsthand the importance of mentorship and safe spaces for youth. His gift wasn’t just strategy—it was empathy. He made a point to connect with players, especially those struggling with issues that often go unspoken, like mental health.

In honor of his late son, Bob helped launch the James Foster Endowment Scholarship. This scholarship offers a pathway for Cal State Long Beach Dirtbags student-athletes to attend college. “It means so much,” Nancy and Bob shared, reflecting on the legacy it creates.

During his time as Mayor of Long Beach, Bob championed environmental sustainability, public safety, and community wellness. He even showed his support at our grand opening for The Guidance Center’s Long Beach headquarters back in 2014! Yet it’s his ongoing dedication to building a more compassionate city that leaves a lasting impression.

Now, alongside Nancy, he co-founded the James Foster Mental Health Assistance Fund, which helps expand access to mental health care for children and families.

Together, Planting Seeds of Hope

“Every person has the opportunity to help someone else. That’s what makes a community stronger.” -Nancy Foster

Not many couples can do it all. Nancy and Bob are the exception! The Fosters are a team in every sense: their shared purpose, empathy, and vision make them a force for good in Long Beach.

Over the years, they’ve uplifted a wide range of local nonprofits, including Long Beach BLAST, The Museum of Latin American Art, Operation Teddy Bear, The LGBTQ Center of Long Beach, and The Guidance Center. Their hands-on approach—volunteering, fundraising, advocating—demonstrates a commitment that goes beyond titles or roles.

Since the launch of the James Foster Mental Health Assistance Fund, they’ve created real pathways to care, helping ensure more children and families receive timely, compassionate services. Nancy and Bob believe that destigmatizing mental health begins with open dialogue and access to resources.

Sunset Sip: Honoring Tim Sailor & the Fosters’ Lifelong Impact

“We believe that the more people talk about mental health, the more supported they’ll feel. That’s the future we’re building—together!” – Nancy and Bob Foster

On Saturday, May 3, The Guidance Center is proud to honor Nancy and Bob Foster with the first-ever Tim Sailor Legacy Award during our Sunset Sip: Planting Seeds of Hope celebration.

This special award honors the memory of Tim Sailor—a beloved friend, mentor, and board member who spent over two decades supporting The Guidance Center. Now, the Fosters continue Tim’s legacy, turning compassion into meaningful change.

Join Us in Honoring Their Legacy

Together, we can plant seeds of hope for generations to come. Join the Fosters in turning stigma into understanding—your support nurtures the next generation’s mental health journey.

• Attend Sunset Sip: Visit our event website to purchase your tickets
• Support vital mental health services at The Guidance Center: Make an impact through a donation.