Randy Butt
Randy Butt grew up in Boyertown, Pennsylvania, a small town in suburban Philadelphia. His adult life was spent in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, another suburb of Philadelphia. Randy graduated from Shippensburg University in 1979 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Education; and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education.
For Randy, being an educator was what he always wanted to do. He taught Business Education at Souderton Senior High School for 18 years; and for 15 years he taught third and fourth grade education at Franconia Elementary School, also in the Souderton School District. He feels blessed to have had a career in education. Randy said “I can’t think of another career that would have been more rewarding, and challenging.”
Randy was married for 23 years, and has two children; Griffin (Liz), and Maddie. He is an extremely proud father; his children are the light of his life. He also has a twin brother, Ronnie, a local artist. Randy is Ronnie’s biggest fan—just go to his house—it is full of Ronnie’s work.
As a sports enthusiast, Randy is interested in all sports; he is especially interested in professional tennis. However, there is a team that Randy will always favor. He is, and always will be, a Philadelphia Eagles fan.
When did you start volunteering at CAMP Rehoboth?
I moved to Rehoboth Beach four and a half years ago and began volunteering immediately. I enjoy working on the mailings that are sent to people throughout the year.
What events/activities have you been involved with as a volunteer?
In addition to mailings, I got involved with volunteering in preparation for Sundance weekend. I had so much fun, and met some very enthusiastic people. I especially like the Sundance Auction.
What’s your best memory volunteering here?
My best memory is the people I volunteer with. Everyone I have met is kind, enthusiastic, and enjoys working toward a common goal.
Favorite season at the beach and why?
My favorite season of the year is summer. I love the beach, and spend as much time on the beach as possible. I love hot and sunny weather, and am still a fan of swimming in the ocean. I would take the ocean over a pool any day. Honestly, I am not a fan of the winter as I do not like cold weather. Autumn is great as well.
Name a childhood mentor or someone who influenced you while growing up.
My childhood mentor and hero would be my mother. She was the best mother anyone could ask for. She shaped me into the person I am today; polite, well mannered, and considerate. She died two years ago after a long battle with dementia, I cling to the many fond memories I have of her.
If you had an extra hour in the day, what would you do?
I would spend it reading.
Favorite U.S. city and why?
My favorite U.S. city is New York City. As a young adult from Pennsylvania, I spent so much time in NYC. I love the restaurants, and I love Broadway. I have been fortunate to have seen so many shows on Broadway. Among my favorites are Hamilton, Spring Awakening, The Book of Mormon, Kinky Boots, and The Lion King. There is nothing like a Broadway show. I also enjoy spending time in the Village, and SoHo. There is nothing like the vibrancy of New York City.
Best year of your life and why?
The best year of my life was 1987 when I became a father for the first time.
Favorite holiday and why?
My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. It’s a day to reflect on my many blessings. The food is always delicious! I love spending time with family and friends.
The LGBT community has made significant progress in the fight for equality over recent years. Did you expect to see this in your lifetime?
I did not expect to see the significant progress in the fight for equality in recent years. In the ‘70s, sexuality was not discussed in my community or among my peers. To see that gay marriage is now a reality is just nothing I ever could have expected. We have come a long way!
Given the new political climate, are you concerned about the possible loss of rights for the LGBT Community? Please explain why or why not.
I am not concerned about the possible loss of rights for the LGBTQ community. There is so much strength in this fight, and I do not believe the gay community will settle for the stripping of rights that have been earned.
How long have you been coming to Rehoboth?
I have been coming to Rehoboth since before I was born! I have a photograph of my mother sitting on the beach on Labor Day weekend, 1957. She was very pregnant with twins. She gave birth to my brother and me a week later (LOL). I remember vacationing here with my family when I was a five year old. We would spend a week each summer vacationing in Rehoboth Beach. This tradition continued throughout my childhood, and into adulthood. Rehoboth is a second home to my children. They love it here. Rehoboth is the beach resort they have come to love as well. It is such a pleasure living here. I am especially fond of the restaurants, and bar establishments Rehoboth has to offer.
Since you began coming to Rehoboth, name the biggest change you’ve seen.
When I was a young boy, the town of Rehoboth Beach “boarded up” on Labor Day weekend. It was not a year round resort. It is amazing to have witnessed the change and growth of this amazing town.
Name three events that you feel have shaped your life.
The three events that have shaped my life to where it is today are the birth of my son, the birth of my daughter, and having the opportunity to move and retire in this amazing beach community.
Night owl or early riser?
I am an early riser. I always have been, and always will be a morning person.
What are you most thankful for?
I am most thankful for my health, family, and the many friends I have made while living here in Rehoboth.
Randy, thank you for the time you spend volunteering for us at CAMP Rehoboth. Our continued growth is only made possible by the support of our many volunteers like you. We look forward to having your continued support, and having you volunteer again this year for Sundance.
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