In recognition of CAMP Rehoboth’s 21st anniversary, we’re continuing our Volunteer Spotlight to honor many of the behind-the-scenes heroes that we’re so fortunate to have in our CAMP family. The Spotlight is an ongoing column in Letters and features recipients who’ve been selected by the volunteers themselves and you, our readers. If you know someone whose efforts are worthy of consideration, please make a nomination. We’ll be maintaining a database that will be used to help determine future recipients. Email us your suggestions.
Teri Dunbar & Maureen Keenan: Volunteering’s a Big Part of Life
Maureen and Teri first met at a potluck dinner. Maureen continued going to the potlucks hoping for another “chance” meeting. As Teri says, “Maureen then stalked me until I went on a date with her.” And, the rest is history.
Maureen holds a BS and MS, both from George Washington University. She has only held two jobs her whole life, the first was at Walgreens during high school and college. While a junior at GW, she was offered a position with Verizon (then NJ Bell) and then spent the next 33 years with them. She is looking forward to retiring in about four years.
Teri went to school and lived in California from 1969 to 1994. She holds a BA and MS from Mount Saint Mary’s, as well as an MS and Ph D. from USC. She worked as a graphic artist for 20 years before heading into the field of psychology.She now works as a TD Psychologist for the State of Delaware.
Maureen and Teri reside in the community of Kinsale Glen, here in Rehoboth, and both drive VW Beetles. They were quick to point out, though, that they had them before they met.
When/why did you start volunteering for CAMP?
Maureen: I started volunteering in the summer of 1998. At the time I was a seasonal visitor and it was a way for me to find out if I wanted to move to RB. By 2001 I did, and have been volunteering ever since. Teri: After living in California for 25 years, I moved east and found myself settling in Rehoboth to be closer to family, just before I turned 50. It was about that time when I finally accepted myself as being gay. I had heard Rehoboth was gay friendly, but I had no idea as to what to do with myself. I eventually began conversations with locals who then introduced me to CAMP. I felt like I had finally connected, not only to myself, but to a supportive and caring community.
What’s been your best memory volunteering here?
Maureen: I think my best memory was the summer of 1999. Kathy Weir made it easy to want to volunteer and learn the CAMP ropes. That summer gave me great training and introduced me to many and all. Teri: Every volunteer activity is the best one for me, but I did step in as co-chair of one of the early Women’s Conferences. It was the year that the Govenor (Ruth Ann Minner) participated in our event. The whole conference was very energizing and inspiring to the women who attended.
What does CAMP Rehoboth mean to you?
For both of us, CAMP is the heart of our community. When we travel and people ask us where we’re from, we find ourselves bragging about the community. CAMP is such a great organization and has helped shape this wonderful town. It continues to give both of us a rock-solid purpose for staying here.
If you could spend a full day with one person, who would it be? Why?
Probably with each other. We have full lives and we both give ourselves to our community, friends, and family. We never really have a full day together.
“Wouldn’t you like to be a CAMPer too?” How would you encourage someone to get involved with us?
We just drag people with us! We have friends and acquaintances who want to spend time with us and who end up volunteering because of our own commitment. Ordinarily people feel shy about meeting others, so having an initial connection to the organization just helps a future CAMPer want to come back for more!
Give us a little known fact about you, until now that is.
Maureen: I played rugby in Washington DC for the Furies and the NJ Monmouth Renegades for about 10 years. Teri: I donated one of my kidney’s to a friend in 2000. I’m a big advocate for organ donation. You should be too!
First thought that comes to mind when you hear the word “Rehoboth.”
Maureen: A place I heard of when I first moved to Arlington, VA as the nearest beach community, little did I know a beach community could be so much. Teri: I don’t think I’ve ever encountered another town in my travels whose mission is directed to “creating a more positive” relationship with others. Rehoboth has positive energy resources that helps people relax and recharge.
Assuming you have any, what else do you like to do in your spare time?
Maureen and Teri: We like adventures! Recently we went zip lining in Maryland. Do ya like to scream? If so, GO ZIP LINING!!!
We know you already love Rehoboth, where’s your next favorite get-away? Why?
Maureen and Teri: Probably Sedona where we try to go once a year to be in a place very different than Rehoboth. We love to hike in the red rocks because we never hike around here.
Friends are coming over for a dinner party? What’s your signature dish?
Maureen: Salmon with my special rub, grilled asparagus and wild rice. Teri: Whatever Maureen makes is my favorite dish! However, I do have skills setting the table!
As a teenager, who was your first celebrity crush?
Maureen: Martina Navratilova—didn’t realize why at the time. LOL. Teri: Bishop Fulton Sheen. I LOVED his cape!
People often ask me, “What’s it like living in Rehoboth year round?” I love that question. How would you respond?
Teri and Maureen: We’re in awe that we live in a “carnival” town. It’s not too different during the “off” season, except that it’s less crowded and has great restaurant promotions.
Special thanks to both of you for all you’ve done to support CAMP Rehoboth. We’re lucky to have you!
To volunteer, fill out the volunteer sign-up form or call 302-227-5620.