Connections
It’s finally October, the month that gives us an indication of the
approaching winter. We begin to bundle up in warmer clothes; the skies
are often ashen and sober; and the leaves are crisp and begin to fall
from the trees. But, it’s also a time for many in our community to
gather and celebrate this wonderful month of change and exploration.
There is much to discover about our community when it is quieter and
more accessible. Long, solitary walks on the beach and intimate
gatherings with friends help each of us connect and better understand
ourselves and others.
If October was a color, it would be orange, the color of pumpkins.
Each of us is delighted in our own way when we pick out our first
pumpkin of the season. We think of the endless possibilities for its use
or how to decorate it with meaning. It is a tradition that has been
carried on ever since Irish immigrants came to America and brought with
them the folk tale of a man named Jack, and thus, jack-o-lanterns. Our
thoughts then turn, of course, to Halloween, one of the oldest holidays,
dating back thousands of years. Halloween eve, October 31st, is the
night before the Christian holiday, All Saints Day. It marks the third
and final harvest of the season, when most of plant life dies until
spring. Whatever its meaning is to each of us, it is about celebrating
as a community and creating a bond and a tradition through all seasons.
October skips along the lanes, It kicks the leaves, and laughs
with rains. — Inez Rice
Founders’ Circle
Communities of people come together because of shared values and
tradition. Each of us wants a safe place to bring our laughter and our
tears. CAMP Rehoboth is trying to create such a place in our new
full-service Community Center. We want our community to celebrate the
holidays and seasons together and create traditions that will become a
meaningful part of each of our members’ lives. Working right along
with us are our Founders’ Circle members and supporters. Each of our
members has not only generously donated to the Capital Campaign but also
has given a much more precious gift...hope! They believe that all of us
in the GLBT community have a meaningful place in this world and need to
be accepted and heard. They believe that we need a safe home where
diversity is a way of life and where people from all walks of life come
together to lead healthy and well-balanced lives.
We need each and every one of you to do your part in building our
community. Please join the Founders’ Circle today and give what you
can to make a difference. Our 308 Founders’ Circle members have
pledged $769,727 toward our $1,000,000 goal. Complete the pledge form
included in this issue of Letters and you’ll join a wonderful group of
businesses, foundations and individuals who share the dream. Choose from
one of several member levels for yourself or give a holiday gift of
membership. There are 8 member levels to choose from (from $100 to
$15,000 and up) and several ways to make payment to fit any budget. You
can also give to the Founders’ Circle by celebrating a special
occasion or by hosting a fundraising event that benefits the Capital
Campaign. We will be as creative as you want to be.
After we have processed your pledge, you’ll be added to the
Founders’ Circle records as a Charter member and will receive
marvelous gifts as our way of saying thanks and welcome to your new
home. Just a little nudge…tax season is right around the corner! CAMP
Rehoboth is a 501(c)(3) organization and contributions are tax
deductible to the full extent of the law. It makes sense to give a tax
deductible contribution at this time of the year while giving to a
worthwhile cause. Join with our community to celebrate our achievements.