The Most Introverted Extroverts You’ll Ever Meet!
CAMP Rehoboth’s Women’s FEST would not be Women’s FEST without the Broadwalk on the Boardwalk. So, when pondering yet another year of pandemic-related restrictions, be it virtual or in person, the Broadwalk on the Boardwalk had to happen. And were we lucky! Kathy Wiz and Muriel Hogan, who have been the driving force and founders of the walk since it was conceived in 2011, agreed to lead the efforts for one more year, before passing the baton.
This signature event evolved after Kathy's sister, Anne Marie, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Kathy was determined to do something to honor her sister, so she approached Sal Seeley to discuss whether CAMP Rehoboth could support a breast cancer walk. He was supportive, but it was Fay Jacobs who suggested that the walk could become part of Women’s FEST, which then inspired the name, “Broadwalk on the Boardwalk.”
Kathy and Muriel's friends were super supportive. Kathy Davidson became Kathy's "coach" and Joanne Kempton came up with the idea of having a DJ in the courtyard and having the walk support the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. The ever-generous members of our CAMP Rehoboth community began stepping up.
From year one, Karen Gustafson was Broadwalk’s premier sponsor. DJ Sharon showed up to entertain us every Broadwalk morning at 8:00 a.m., usually even after a late-night gig. Geri Dibiase ran (sometimes literally) from CAMP Rehoboth to the Greene Turtle to the south end of the boardwalk to capture the magic with her camera. Lori’s Café provided much-needed coffee for the walkers. And as Broadwalk grew, so did its needs. Jolly Trolley hopped on board, providing rides for people who would have trouble walking from CAMP Rehoboth to the end of the boardwalk for the ceremony on the beach. So many others gave generously to make Broadwalk happen over the years.
“That’s just the community we live in,” Muriel says. “It’s why we love it here and why we enjoy being involved with CAMP Rehoboth.” “And,” adds Kathy, “we have never charged a registration fee to participate in the Broadwalk. We wanted everyone to be able to participate, and those who could, have been very generous over the years.”
The CAMP Rehoboth Women’s FEST Broadwalk on the Boardwalk, led by the two, has raised over $76,000 in donations for the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition during the 11 years since its inception.
Again this year, there is no charge. If you are able, a $10 donation is suggested for a boa to help support Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition. (Boas are not returnable this year due to COVID-19). Swing by the CAMP Rehoboth courtyard on Sunday, April 25, between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to get a boa, then walk at your own pace, either in your neighborhood, or on the boardwalk. Grab a photo or selfie and post it on Facebook or send them to me at CAMP Rehoboth so we can share them in the next issue of Letters!
As these sometimes shy, other times feisty, but always generous women say, “Come out and volunteer! You might get tired or dirty, but it’s a great way to become involved in this unique and fabulous community. You will understand the power of teamwork, membership, and the pride in giving back. You will know the feeling of accomplishment by being part of something bigger and something important—like CAMP Rehoboth and the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition.”
And, if you’re inspired, consider volunteering with CAMP Rehoboth. Help us keep this beautiful event going next year and help us dream up even more fun events in the future. Muriel and Kathy both commented, during our brief discussion, how volunteering, membership in CAMP Rehoboth, and the Founders’ Circle were the biggest factors in how well they were able to integrate into the community "It's about the people. It's always about the people," says Kathy.
On behalf of the community, for all you have done for CAMP Rehoboth, those with cancer, the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, and for making the community gentler, more positive, and more welcoming, Kathy Wiz and Muriel Hogan, we thank you!
CAMP Rehoboth Development Director Anita Broccolino oversees and advances CAMP Rehoboth's development, fundraising, and communications efforts, while helping increase awareness in the community. If you would like to learn more about CAMP Rehoboth, become a member, or meet with Anita to discuss a donation, legacy, or planned giving gift, please call 302-227-5620 or email: anita@camprehoboth.com.