LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
CAMP Connect |
by Andrea Andrus |
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. Pledge Form available in PDF format HERE Andrea Andrus is the CAMP Rehoboth Development Director. She may be reached by e-mail at andrea@camprehoboth.com, or by calling 302-227-5620. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 14, No. 14 October 15, 2004 |