Don Crowl
Originally from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Don Crowl moved to Rehoboth full time in May of 2012, after vacationing here since the late 80s. Prior to moving to Rehoboth, he lived in Washington, DC where he worked in the non-profit sector with the American Diabetes Association as Director of Membership and Subscription Services. Don continues to be employed with the ADA, telecommuting from his home in Lewes. He has also lived in New York City and Los Angeles.
Don and his partner, Gene Roe, have a yellow lab, Potter, and a black cocker spaniel, named What (yes, that’s the correct name). Don’s interests include renovating homes (this is the fourth home he has renovated) as well as painting (his college degree is in Fine Art). Don also enjoys walking Potter on the beach, working in his garden, kayaking, biking, cooking, and a variety of volunteer work in the community.
When did you start volunteering at CAMP Rehoboth and what events or activities have you been involved with since?
I started volunteering at CAMP Rehoboth in March, 2012 shortly after attending a Volunteer Orientation. I volunteer with the Rainbow Thumb Club (spending Saturday mornings maintaining the CAMP grounds), Volunteer-on-Vacation program, and the Membership Committee. After many years of coming to Rehoboth and enjoying the many services CAMP provides, I decided after moving here full-time, I wanted to give back to the community and CAMP was my first choice.
What’s your best memory volunteering at CAMP Rehoboth?
Some of the best memories include volunteering with the Volunteer-on-Vacation group and going out to the community providing services at retirement communities, Cape Henlopen State Park, and partnering with Habitat for Humanity. It’s been a thrill seeing how appreciative the recipients have been with us providing a hand. As part of my Rainbow Thumb experience, my dog and I are at CAMP on Saturday mornings not only maintaining the grounds, but also meeting people and sharing with vacationers about CAMP Rehoboth and the many services it provides to the community.
What does CAMP Rehoboth mean to you?
An inclusive and accepting community for all people no matter their gender, sexual orientation, age or race. It also means fun times.
First thought that comes to mind when you hear the word “Rehoboth.”
Home!
Since you live here year round, what’s your favorite thing to do in the off season?
This is my first year living in Rehoboth year round. Some of my favorite things to do during the off-season have been walking my dog on the beach Saturday and Sunday mornings, enjoying some of the different activities CAMP and the Rehoboth community sponsor, such as the Christmas Tree lighting at the bandstand, CAMP Chorus events, CAMP Programs (the lectures on Van Gogh, and Humor in Literature), taking advantage of the dinner specials at many of the local restaurants, and getting together with the new friends I’m meeting in the area.
Fast forward or rewind? If you could go ahead in time or back, which would you pick and why?
I would stay in the present moment. My past has been wonderful and my experiences have led me to who I am today. I’m happy and enjoy today and where I am.
Host-with-the-Most! If you could pick any four people to invite for dinner, who would it be and why those people?
Since I love the fine arts, the people I would pick to invite to dinner would be various artists throughout history, such as Cezanne, Susan Rothenberg, Elizabeth Murray, and Fairfield Potter.
Lost! If you were stranded on a deserted island, what three things would you want with you (other than food and water)?
If I were stranded on a deserted island, I don’t think I would want to have things with me, but would rather have people or animals including my dog, Potter, the man I am dating, Gene, and his dog, What. We have good times together.
Early bird or night owl? Why?
I am an early bird. When you have a dog and at 6:00 a.m. he has his two little eyes staring at you, you cannot roll-over and ignore him. You have to get up.
You’ve just won the lottery. What’s the first thing you’d do with your winnings?
Probably buy art.
Favorite part of a wedding?
Eating the cake!
Pet peeve(s)?
Negativity.
What was your last New Year’s Resolution and how long did it last?
My 2012 resolution was to move to Rehoboth full-time. It was a successful New Year’s Resolution!
One favorite food?
Sushi.
One food you’d never eat?
Sea Urchin–yuck!!!
If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? Why?
I’ve lived in many places throughout my life. For me, at this time, I’m living where I would like to be, Rehoboth.
What are you most thankful for?
This may sound trite, but I’m thankful and appreciative of everything and everyone in my life. I don’t take too much for granted.
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know you, Don, through CAMP Rehoboth’s Membership Committee. In less than a year you’ve already made an impact within our group, and I suspect we’ll see more great things from you in the future. Thanks so much for your support of CAMP Rehoboth.
Know someone whose efforts should be considered for the CAMP Rehoboth Volunteer Spotlight? Email your suggestion.
