Silence Is Not an Option
We humans are always employing strategy. Whether it is a route to the grocery store, weekly menus, weekend plans or money management, we practice the art of strategizing. We typically think of strategy as it relates to games like chess, baseball, or golf. Strategy at CAMP Rehoboth is not a game (although we love to have fun). Rather, it is a thoughtful process that requires us to reflect on the vision of CAMP Rehoboth, map our programs, consider data, review funding sources, and determine a path forward.
CAMP Rehoboth envisions communities in southern Delaware and beyond where all LGBTQ+ people thrive. That’s the vision. It’s lofty and it must be. We deserve to thrive! We are going for it, all of us—the Board of Directors, staff, members, volunteers, donors, sponsors, and our allies! Our business, nonprofit, healthcare, educational, political, and community partners are on board and ready to “make it happen.”
We are developing strategies to:
• Maximize the impact of our programs and serve our community, its ever-changing needs, and the sociopolitical landscape;
• Build a diversified and sustainable funding plan that is transparent and feeds our ability to program, advocate, and build community;
• Increase and broaden community engagement to ensure we are inclusive, actively involved, and serving our community across southern Delaware and beyond; and
• Strengthen our Board governance and staff leadership to ensure we have the infrastructure to realize the vision we see for CAMP Rehoboth.
The context in which CAMP Rehoboth was founded has changed over the past 34 years. There absolutely have been high moments, and also challenges that require resolve, resilience, and collective activism.
We are currently in a challenging time; it’s now more than ever that we must engage and support. Silence is not an option. We will continue to advocate for and with the LGBTQ+ community. Advocacy issues include access to and equity of healthcare, including our trans and BIPOC siblings; youth and schools; and aging services.
Over the next two months you will see and hear more about our strategic plan and how it will be operationalized over the next four years. I know that when calls for help and support go out, our community answers. Be ready to answer. We are CAMP Rehoboth, collectively. Together, we are a force. A force that has transformed a region’s culture from hate to acceptance and love. Love always wins!
In the meantime, be kind, be curious, be fun, and stay informed. ▼
Kim Leisey, PhD, is Executive Director of CAMP Rehoboth.