In recognition of CAMP Rehoboth’s 20th 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 at info@camprehoboth.com and put “Volunteer Spotlight” in the subject line.
Claire Ippoliti on Volunteering at the Beach and Beyond
Soon after being elected to the CAMP Rehoboth Board of Directors in 2009, Claire established the Volunteer-on-Vacation Program and has served as its Coordinator since. VOV offers volunteer opportunities to locals, part-timers and vacationers, and partners with local youth organizations to offer fun and educational programs to those in need, working toward a common goal of creating a better community. On the Board, Claire chairs the Volunteer Development Committee. She resides in Philadelphia and is the Vice President of Lending for the Philadelphia Federal Credit Union.
Claire recently purchased a second home in Harmon Bay, in Rehoboth. She has two cats, Philly Girl and Sam.
When/why did you start volunteering for CAMP?
I started volunteering a few years ago working at Love and Sundance. I had been going to CAMP events for years but had never volunteered. Since I was a part-time resident, each weekend I had my Philly friends and family come to visit and I didn’t get to know many “locals.” I thought volunteering would be a good way to get to know some people from the Rehoboth area. I was right!
What has been your best memory volunteering here?
Of course the Volunteer on Vacation program is near and dear to my heart. In addition, I marched with CAMP Rehoboth at the Sea Witch parade this year and the outpouring of support as we marched down Rehoboth Avenue was just amazing and energizing.
What does CAMP mean to you?
CAMP Rehoboth means an inclusive community – building, welcoming, challenging and supporting the community that surrounds Rehoboth Beach.
If you had an extra hour in the day, what would you do?
Sit outside and meditate.
If you could spend a full day with one person, who would it be? Why?
Muhammad Yunus, author of Banker to the Poor. I would talk with him about the challenges he faced starting Grameen Bank and how he overcame all the objections to do so.
“Wouldn’t you like to be a CAMPer too?” How would you help encourage someone to get involved with us?
I would tell them to reach out to folks that have volunteered, to go to the CAMP Rehoboth Community Center, visit our website, and give volunteering a try. It is a wonderful way to meet others while helping Create A More Positive Rehoboth.
SHHHH! Please provide a little known fact about you…until now, that is…
When I was 29 I sold my car, quit my job, moved from the suburbs to South Philly, and moved in with a stranger to begin Temple Law school. After two days and four hours of class time, I said, “Sh**, I just sold my car, quit my job, moved to South Philly, and Law school is not for me.” Even though I dropped out of Law School, everything worked out and within one year of living in the city, I had the courage to come out.
First thought that comes to mind when you hear the word “Rehoboth.”
Tranquility.
What else do you like to do in your spare time, assuming you have any?
I love to read and photography is a hobby.
Thank you Claire! Your commitment and leadership has made a tremendous difference here at CAMP Rehoboth and to our community.
