Looking for something to do on Saturday December 2nd? How about a Camp Out to help those who don't have shelter or heat this winter?

Chanhassen Rotary is sponsoring its second annual ShelterBox Camp Out just outside the Chanhassen Rec Center. Registration starts at 4pm. Saturday night includes a soup-dump-dinner, an educational program, plus free breakfast on Sunday morning.

OK, Q&A:

*** Question: Why should I do this?

Answer: Because there are people who do not have money for heat right here in Carver County. There are people around the world who are struck by natural disaster who need shelter and other essentials. This project will raise money to help people both here and around the world.

By camping out, you get some sense of what it is like to live in somewhat rough conditions, while having some great stories to tell your friends during the holiday season.

*** Question: Why is Rotary doing this?
A- Rotary members are crazy
B- Because the really cold weather doesn't usually come until February
C- Because it is a fun way to raise money for those who don't have warmth and shelter.

Answer: All of the above. Half the money raised will purchase ShelterBoxes to help people all over the world. Half will be donated to the CAP Agency of Carver County Energy Assistance Program.

*** Question: What is a ShelterBox?
Answer: A ShelterBox is a self-shipping container that contains a tent, heat, cooking equipment, water purification, sleeping bags and other tools. The idea is to provide heat, shelter, safe water and a way to prepare a warm meal for 10 people to survive for 90 days. For example, ShelterBoxes were shipped to provide short term relief for Katrina victims. Boxes were also sent around the world to help victims of natural disaster and refugee situations in such places as Pakistan, Sudan, Rumania and Sri Lanka.

*** Question: I thought Rotarians were a bunch of old white guys. A camp out sounds way too cool for Rotary.

Answer: Chanhassen Rotary is not your father's Rotary club. It is a fun mix of energetic professionals, both men and women from their 20's and up who come from a variety of backgrounds and live and work in the Chanhassen and Victoria areas. Their common bond is service to the community and the world, along with a commitment to high ethical standards. Those principles don't have age restrictions.

***Question: Where do I get more info?

Answer:
www.chanhassenrotary.com - Registration form, sponsor forms and more info!!
www.shelterboxusa.org - All about the ShelterBox program
www.capagency.org - All about the CAP Agency and its work here in the southwest metro.

Or, the program chair, Kevin at 612 385
-5628

Submitted by Greg Krauska, Public Relations Chair, Chanhassen Rotary chanrotary@hotmail.com