LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
CAMP Rehoboth and the Community Center Project |
by Dan Goren |
Since the beginning of summer when the Founder's Circle Capital Campaign was launched, awareness of the Community Center Project has grown immensely in Rehoboth and the surrounding communities. This awareness has heightened the interest for many people to learn more about the current programs, and to find out how to get involved. Also, many people have asked questions to further understand the plans for creating the Community Center. The information contained below answers some frequently asked questions, as well as providing an update on some current programs and lists a much-needed "Volunteer Opportunity".
Frequently Asked Questions Q. What is the purpose of CAMP Rehoboth expanding into a Community Center? A. To have a permanent facility open to everyone which provides a place where the GLBT community can gather for specific activities, to meet others or just relax in a safe environment. Currently there are nine (9) new support groups and activities for men and women that have been launched by the Community Center Project, each meeting in various places throughout Sussex County. In addition, under the umbrella of CAMP Rehoboth, to have a Center that reaches out to the community by providing information and hotline services, sponsoring health and wellness programs for men and women, creating a GLBT lending library, having space for social events and space for the office of CAMP Rehoboth. Q. Why was the Founder's Circle formed, and what does it mean to be a member? A. The Founder's Circle was formed as the organization that will seek to raise funds over the next five years from individuals, corporations and charitable foundations to build or buy a building to house the Community Center. When you join and become a member in the Founder's Circle, you are making a statement about your commitment to creating the Center and your name becomes inscribed in the official records of the Founder's Circle. Memberships are available at many levels, ranging from $100 to over $15,000 and donations can be pledged for payment over five years. The various levels of membership provide opportunities for honoring your contribution. The Founder's Circle brochure, containing additional information, is available at the CAMP office. Q. What happens to the money that I donate to the Founder's Circle and can I use my donation as a tax deduction? A. All funds are RESTRICTED and embargoed for use ONLY for actual construction or purchase of a building and equipment to operate the Community Center. All Founder's Circle donations are kept entirely separate from CAMP Rehoboth operating expenses. Every level of membership in the Founder's Circle is considered a charitable contribution for federal income tax purposes. Have questions about the Community Center Project? Email dan@camprehoboth.com. Program Updates The Retreat I The Gay Men's Support Group, has been meeting weekly for one year. Currently the group meets every Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. at the Epworth United Methodist Church, 20 Baltimore Avenue in downtown Rehoboth Beach. Approximately 75 gay men have visited the group since its inception. Currently, about 20 men form the core group with representation from all 3 counties in Delaware, as well as from Maryland's Eastern Shore. Each week participants gather to share their life experiences. Topics vary widely, from relationship issues to coming out concerns. All gay men living in or visiting the Rehoboth/Lewes areas are welcome to drop in and discover what has made this group such an enormous success. The Women's Project of CAMP Rehoboth The Project Committee has already begun planning for the 2nd Annual Women's Conference scheduled for Saturday, March 9, 2002 at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center. Governor Ruth Ann Minner is expected to open the event as the keynote speaker. The 2002 line-up includes a full day of panel and breakout sessions covering both traditional & non-traditional health topics in addition to discussions concerning "Healthy Investing" and "Need to Know Legal Information." By holding the event at the Convention Center, the registration capacity for the 2002 conference can increase, allowing many more women to attend. A cocktail party will follow the day's events. The price of the conference (yet to be determined) will include lunch. Donations will be accepted. Volunteer Opportunity Grant Proposal Writer: The Community Center Project is searching for an individual who has experience in researching and writing grant proposals for submission to charitable foundations and other organizations. This activity supports the goals of the Founder's Circle Capital Campaign to raise funds for creating the Community Center. Excellent writing skills and experience in preparing and submitting proposals are needed, along with a desire to make a meaningful contribution and becoming involved through volunteering. Those interested should call the CAMP office at 302-227-5620. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 11, No. 11, August 10, 2001. |