A Great Collaboration Makes for a Great Holiday
Many in Sussex County had a brighter holiday this year thanks to many generous donors and the efforts of CAMP Rehoboth Outreach Program (CROP) volunteers and the Rehoboth Beach Bears. The annual Toy, Hat/Glove, and Coat Drive for Sussex County individuals and families in need yielded 466 toys, including three bikes; 231 hats, gloves, and scarves; and 136 coats.
CAMP Rehoboth, Purple Parrot, and Diego’s were collection sites. CROP volunteers monitored the sites. The Rehoboth Beach Bears coordinated a “stuff the truck” donations day, and a team of CROP volunteers supported the “big sort” and packed the van for delivery to the recipient organizations.
Four local organizations and the individuals they serve were beneficiaries: ACE Peer Resource Center, Sussex Wellness Center, Orgullo Delaware, and Lighthouse for Broken Wings. In addition, an eight-year-old boy who has had a tough time this year will receive several toys. All these organizations were thrilled with the quantity and quality of items they received, and we are sure the eight-year-old boy was ecstatic on Christmas Day!
This community program was initiated in 2008. This year—and every year—has been wonderful, thanks to the efforts and generosity of many! ▼
Pictured above: Brian Cox
CROP Prepares Christmas Eve Meal for Home of the Brave
On Christmas Eve, CROP volunteers prepared a meal for those who served our country. Home of the Brave in Milford is helping to reduce the number of homeless veterans in Delmarva by providing housing and other needed resources to set them on the right path. A team of CROP volunteers prepared and delivered a special meal to 16 veterans (including one woman) residing at Home of the Brave.
Volunteers shopped for ingredients, then cooked two hams, mac & cheese (made from scratch!), the ever-popular green bean casserole, a fresh Caesar salad, and three pies. A large poinsettia was also provided as a festive decoration.
The staff at Home of the Brave were especially grateful for CROP’s delicious meal, with enough for leftovers, and also for our efforts to provide a special treat for those who have sacrificed so much for our country.
What a rewarding way to spend Christmas Eve! Thanks to the volunteers who participated and to all whose donations made this meal possible. ▼
Pictured: Karen Anderson, Brenda Dunn
Thank You, Anita Broccolino!
In late-January, CAMP Rehoboth staff said farewell to Development Director Anita Broccolino. In her role, Anita oversaw CAMP Rehoboth’s fundraising efforts and provided development guidance to the Board, volunteers, and existing committees, meanwhile helping to increase awareness in the community about the programs and activities CAMP Rehoboth offers.
“Anita brought energy, enthusiasm, and passion for the community in every event she produced for CAMP Rehoboth,” said Matty Brown, Operations Administrator at CAMP Rehoboth. “Whether it was exciting new fundraising opportunities like partnering with Dogfish Head for CAMP Rehoboth’s own beer, producing a one-of-a-kind special concert with Suede, or being instrumental in the rebranding of Sundance as Sun Festival, Anita’s work for CAMP Rehoboth translated into great fun for the community.”
“CAMP Rehoboth and its community members will certainly miss the energy and enthusiasm Anita put into everything she did,” said Board member Pat Catanzariti. “I personally want to wish her much, much success and happiness in her future endeavors.”
Thank you, Anita! ▼
CAMP Rehoboth Chorus Postpones Concert
Out of an abundance of caution, the CAMP Rehoboth Chorus has postponed its concert, The Great American Songbook. Originally scheduled for President’s Day weekend, the chorus’s return to the stage will have to wait just a little longer. Stay tuned to the CAMP Rehoboth website for future dates, sponsorship opportunities, and more information about the CAMP Rehoboth Chorus. ▼