My first few weeks at CAMP Rehoboth have been a whirlwind of activity. I have been to Rehoboth many times, but never knew there was quite so much going on in the “off-season.” There is still so much more to come this winter, as Michael Gilles writes about in this issue. Rehoboth is a truly special place and my husband, Khusan, and I are grateful to be a part of it. We picked up our Locals Season discount card and are already starting to feel like locals. As we approach our first holiday season in Rehoboth, I am filled with gratitude for this new beginning (not to mention our locals season discount) and for the many opportunities that lie ahead at CAMP Rehoboth.▽
I am grateful to the countless volunteers who make CAMP Rehoboth the special place it is. From the folks who keep the courtyard looking beautiful, to the CAMPcierges who welcome our guests, to the many volunteers who organize amazing events like Women’s FEST and Sundance, it is remarkable how volunteers drive the important work of this organization. This of course includes our Board of Directors, who have gone above and beyond during this transition period.▽
I am thankful to be able to do meaningful advocacy work, and have the honor of standing with you as we make our community a welcoming and supportive place for everyone. I am inspired by the work that staff like Barbara Antlitz and volunteers like Board Member Tara Sheldon are doing to make our schools welcoming of all students, which you can read more about in this issue.▽
I have a deep appreciation for the vibrant arts and cultural programs that make CAMP Rehoboth such a special place. Whether it be the CAMP Rehoboth Chorus, our recent theatre production, or the beautiful artwork that hangs in our gallery, seeing our lives and our stories reflected in art is empowering, important, and beautiful. I look forward to seeing friends from the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington performance at CAMP Rehoboth in January.▽
I am thankful for the many sponsors who make our work possible. I am learning that our sponsors are not just financial supporters, they are very much a part of our family, and I look forward to getting to know them all better. I recently had the chance to meet with Linda Kemp, from Olivia Travel, and I was so pleased to see Linda profiled in this issue of Letters.▽
I am profoundly grateful to Steve and Murray and the band of friends and leaders who, 29 years ago, had the vision to build CAMP Rehoboth. I know that I have an extraordinary opportunity to lead this remarkable organization because of the groundwork that has been laid over these many years. Murray reflects on the early days of CAMP Rehoboth in this issue’s CAMP Matters. We will have many more opportunities to honor our history in our 30th Anniversary Year. It is an honor to work with Murray as we reflect on our rich history and plan for our bright future.▽
Of course, I am grateful to all our members. Some of you have been supporting CAMP Rehoboth since our very first day. Others, like new member James Sears, just signed up last week! Some of you have basic memberships; others, who are able to give more, do so. All of you make CAMP Rehoboth and Rehoboth Beach the remarkable, fun, inclusive, and caring community that it is. We could not do this work without you.▽
Finally, I am thankful to be surrounded by so many people who care for, love, and support each other. This is truly what makes CAMP Rehoboth a special place. In my short time here, I have witnessed many friendships that have been forged at CAMP Rehoboth, and I can tell you they are very powerful ones. Khusan and I are so lucky to have been adopted by a community of people who so clearly take care of each other. The efforts everyone has taken to make us feel welcome and at home are deeply appreciated.▽
As I approach my first holiday season in Rehoboth Beach, I have much for which to be thankful. Thanks to everyone for the warm welcome, and I look forward to working with you all in the years to come. ▼