Roxy Castillo and Joey Kwit

When they’re not travelling the mid-Atlantic participating in road races, Roxy (Rosanna) Castillo and Joey Kwit split their time between their homes in New York City’s Greenwich Village and Rehoboth Beach. They share their homes with Bentley, an Italian greyhound.

When/why did you start volunteering at CAMP Rehoboth? 

Roxy and Joey: In the spring of 2010, we approached CAMP about doing a 5K event, later to be known as the Sundance 5K. The very day we met Chris Beagle, first by phone, then in person, the wheels were put in motion to start a fun natured 5K, with the support of Seashore Striders, to benefit CAMP Rehoboth. We thought that doing a race benefiting CAMP would not only be a great event for the community, but also bring awareness about CAMP to those who might not be familiar with the organization. It always amazes us how many people running each year have never stepped foot on the premises until the 5K.

What’s been your best memory volunteering here?

Roxy and Joey: This past year at packet pick up for the Sundance 5K, a group of friends came to help. Alicia Marchioni, a good friend of ours who has been a huge supporter of this 5K since the beginning, came from Minnesota just to participate and meet up with old friends. All the people who support us, and show it by offering to help one way or another is amazing. And the overwhelming supporting from CAMP and all the volunteers who backed the 5K event. 

What does CAMP Rehoboth mean to you?

Roxy: Building bridges and understanding. Discarding or dismantling fear and misconceptions. Inclusion for all. Being a part of a trailblazing organization that is helping to set an environment where people can be comfortable with who they are onsite and within. I have too many friends that don’t live their life the way they should or want to, and CAMP is full of amazing leaders showing how it’s done!

Joey: CAMP is truly a community center, we have a sense of family with all that work there.

What events/activities have you been involved with at CAMP? 

Roxy and Joey: We started the 5K run held the last Sunday of August, Sundance 5K: Run, Walk or Sashay. It kicks off the Sundance week. We just completed our third year. 

If you could spend a full day with one person, who would it be? Why? 

Roxy: My lovely family. Each one sweet and amazing in different ways. My grandparents who passed away when I was ten. Wish I had known them as an adult.

Joey: I would love to spend a day with a dear friend, Javanna Thomas, who was taken from us way too soon. She would always put a smile on my face no matter what type of day you’re having.

“Wouldn’t you like to be a CAMPer too?” How would you encourage someone to get involved with us? 

Roxy: Simple, it’s a great organization accepting and embracing all. You will get to meet many nice, intelligent, dynamic members and leaders in the community, and most important, with a sense of humor! 

Joey: Volunteering at an event. This is the best way to see “behind the scenes” of an event. Not to mention the great people you meet.

Tell us something that very few people know about you...

Roxy: Travelled to over fifty countries. Run over fifty road races a year four years and counting. Hope to run a marathon in each state—up to 10, so have a long way to go. 

Joey: I went to high school and played on the same soccer team as Pele’s son. 

First thought that comes to mind when you hear the word “Rehoboth.”

Roxy: Family. 

Joey: Friendly people.

Other than CAMP Rehoboth, of course, what else do you like to do in your spare time?

Roxy: Volunteer for Seashore Striders, local running group that organizes races to raise funds and awareness for different charities. 

Joey: Support the Seashore Striders a local running event production group that puts on over 60 races a year.

What’s your favorite thing to do here in the off season?

Roxy: Run. And anything outdoors…exploring the state parks. An amazing trail is open only in the off season through March 1. Strange that a lot of locals have never done the walk or run from Gordon’s Pond to Cape Henlopen State Park. It is beautiful and scenic. Although in the fall I recommend bug repellent (lots!). Restaurant hop. 

Joey: Run road races.

Where was your last vacation destination and what influenced you to go there?

Joey: Trinidad and Tobago eco tourism adventures. 

Roxy: Trinidad and Tobago, one of my favorite destinations. I had family stationed there for work, and took every opportunity I had to go visit them and spend time with them. Lucky for me it was in paradise. Caribbean Islands with beautiful beaches and dense rainforest. 

Friends are coming over for dinner. What will you make?

Roxy: Joey is the cook! Favorites are the cedar plank mustard salmon on the grill. 

Joey: Twice cooked broccoli with salmon and cold soba noodles. 

Roxy: Yes, what Joey said and with his bok choy in soy as well…yum.

What is your favorite TV show currently? Of all-time?

Joey: Two Broke Girls.

Roxy: Same as Joey, but TV umm, not so much.

What is the last book you’ve read? Your all-time favorite?

Roxy: The Time Travelers Wife. And I will admit it—The Twilight series. I didn’t think I would like it, especially since I am not a kid, but I devoured the series in five days. 

Joey: On the Road by Jack Kerouac

People often ask me, “What’s it like living in Rehoboth year round?” I love that question. How would you respond?

Roxy: We live in New York City year round, but weekends are spent in RB year round. We have the best of both worlds. Love RB in the off season because you can enjoy the restaurants, shopping, beaches and trails, without the overwhelming heat or crowds. Don’t get us wrong, we love the summertime and all it brings with it, but it is a change of pace and a chance to spend more quality time with the locals…or weekend locals like me. 

Joey: Even though we only come to RB on weekends, we come year round. There is always something to do...almost every weekend. One of my favorite activities is going out on Junction and Breakwater Trail and back.

Would you rather go to the movies or watch one at home? Assuming you have, what was the last movie you watched?

Roxy: Movie at home, without a doubt. With friends, good food, craft beer and/or wine, big screen. 

Joey: Watching at home. Last movie out? We took Roxy’s nephews to see The Dark Night.

Know someone whose efforts should be considered for the CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Spotlight? Email your suggestion.