Connect
As many of you know, I was hired by CAMP Rehoboth to raise funds so
that we can have a fully functioning Community Center, a place where we
can all connect. Our goal is to have the space and to offer the programs
that are wanted and needed by the community. The local community has
been quite generous in supporting the plan both financially and with
ideas for programs. My challenge is to convey CAMP Rehoboth’s
dedication and need to state and national foundations so that we can
earn their support.
Shortly after I started working at CAMP Rehoboth, I asked that each
of us in the office keep a tally sheet of the number and types of
questions and interactions we have with people contacting CAMP. The form’s
categories include: Health, Local Services, Programs/Tickets/Events,
Travel Arrangements, Letters/Ads and Other. My rationale was to have the
data necessary to support CAMP’s requests to foundations. The numbers
can be used to cite the volume of requests we have; the areas where we
are meeting needs, and the areas where we have requests for space or
service but do not have the resources to meet those requests and,
therefore, need the foundation’s financial support.
As you can imagine, our tally sheets were filled with tick marks
predominately in the Programs/Tickets/Events and Travel Arrangements
during our busy summer season. Now, I am not saying that we did not get
and meet requests for information and services in the other areas. It is
just that those requests may be overshadowed by requests for
entertainment and housing/hotel referrals.
Suddenly, all that changed. In one week’s time, I was reminded of
the crucial function CAMP Rehoboth serves in our community. We are seen
by the greater community as a reliable, trusted resource. When one of
our community members was suddenly homeless, he was referred to CAMP
Rehoboth. Thanks to Sal Seeley, he was walked quickly through the social
services network and had a place to go to bed that night. In the same
week, a person with a serious health issue came to CAMP Rehoboth, again
because CAMP is trusted.
CAMP Rehoboth exists because there are community needs that we are
meant to meet. Often, we are at our best when meeting those needs
requires a trusted friend to connect various segments of the community.
I am grateful to be able to play a small part in making those
connections.
Founders’ Circle
Currently, we have 448 members of the CAMP Rehoboth Founders’
Circle capital campaign. They have pledged $972,087.08 with $704,645.18
being received.
If you are not a member, please consider adding your name to the
Founders’ Circle permanent records. At this time of year, you may want
to remember a friend or relative with a membership in the Founders’
Circle. You will be making an investment in our community, plus it’s a
great tax deduction. CAMP Rehoboth is a 501(c)(3) organization and
contributions are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
CAMP Rehoboth’s board and staff appreciate the commitment of all
who have become recent members of the Founders’ Circle, upgraded your
original pledge, or made your pledge payment. You can play a vital role
in providing the much needed resources that keep our community safe,
healthy, informed and, at times, entertained.
Beth Fitton is Development Director at CAMP Rehoboth. She may be
reached by e-mail at beth@camprehoboth.com.
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