RAINBOW ONLINE CONNECTION VIRTUAL CAMP LAUNCHES SUMMER 2020
We are all feeling isolated due to the COVID-19 pandemic but it is particularly felt by our more vulnerable community members. The need for physical distancing has caused us to rethink the way we offer our summer camp programming but the truth remains Rainbow Camp is needed more than ever.
The Welcome Friend Association has developed the Rainbow Online Connection (ROC). ROC is a fun, safe, and secure online virtual camp and community open to 2SLGBTQ+ youth, allies, siblings and children of queer families. ROC will serve participants (ages 12-17) and Leaders in Training (ages 17-18) with the opportunity to connect and interact with other like-minded youth and leaders through at-home activities and staff-led interactive programming.
Even before this new season begins, we have received praise and thanks from our community members.
"I love the experience of being part of such an inclusive camp, and I want to have the opportunity to try the activities hosted by ROC," a past camper.
"Thank you for finding a way for all these kids to connect. This is awesome!," a parent.
It has always been a policy to make Rainbow Camp, and now Rainbow Online Connection, as accessible as possible.
We want all campers to feel welcome regardless of their financial circumstances. Given that one week of camp typically costs $450 per camper, fundraising campaigns like this one allow us to offer subsidized registrations as well as full camperships, or camp scholarships, to those that need it most.
Any donations we receive during this campaign will be matched, up to $20,000 total, by a very generous anonymous sponsor. That would mean an additional $40,000 in revenue for the Rainbow Online Connection!
Additionally, if you are able to donate $1,000 or more, you will have the opportunity to win a Zoom meet and greet with one of two celebrated Canadians and proud supporters of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Colin Mochrie, actor, writer, producer and comedian, will be alongside his wife, actress and writer, Debra McGrath and their trans daughter, Kinley or have a chance at a one-on-one chat with Juno award-winning singer-songwriter and actress, Jann Arden.
Help us reach our $20,000 goal!
Every donation makes a genuine difference. We accept one-time and monthly donations through our safe, secure online donation portal. Visit HelpRainbowCamp.ca to donate today.
You can help us in other ways too! Post, tweet, talk about and share our fundraising campaign and the news about ROC with your friends, family, and on social media pages. Together we can achieve our goal and give our 2SLGBTQ+ youth and allies an unforgettable summer, no matter where they are!
To find out more about Rainbow Online Connection or to register, please visit www.welcomefriend.ca or email registration@rainbowcamp.ca. Our weekly camp programs begin July 5, 2020.
For more information on the Rainbow Online Connection, please visit www.welcomefriend.ca/camp/roc/frequently-asked-questions/.