Brad Rippetoe Named Director of Capital Campaign

Many who read this blog will know Brad Rippetoe.  During his tenure at Thunderbird, Brad has had the privilege of wearing many hats and serving across multiple departments.  Most recently, Brad served camp as Executive Director.  It was during that year of service that Brad came to realize that a focused effort would be needed to ensure the success of a campaign to update existing facilities.  Brad believed that he could provide that leadership and has assumed the role as Director of the Capital Campaign for Thunderbird.  Brad recently reflected on his time at Thunderbird and his look to the future:

“If I could wish for one “super power”, it would be to have the ability to hear the stories that the walls of our cabins at Camp Thunderbird would tell.  As I think about how our country has changed and evolved; the events in history like World Wars, conflicts, presidential elections, civil rights, etc.… it is incredible to think about the idea that boys were living in those cabins together.  They were sharing their stories of successes and challenges throughout their days at camp. They were learning about others that were different from themselves, how to set goals and achieve them with the support of counselors and cabin mates.  Bonds were formed.  Lives were changed.  I am so grateful that we are still providing opportunities for boys (and girls) to add to this life changing legacy.  

I am blessed, honored, and humbled to have the opportunity to wake up every day thinking about how we can ensure that the next generations of campers and staff have the opportunity to spend their summer days on the Sunny Shores of Lake Wylie and Camp Thunderbird.  I realize that the opportunity to have this singular focus as the Director of Capital Campaign is a unique one and I fully intend to make the most of it.   I think I am looking forward the most to reconnecting with so many of you as our alumni to hear YOUR stories of your time at Camp and how those summers have impacted your lives even today.  I will be hitting the road soon and hope to have the opportunity to see you soon!  Feel free to give me a shout at any time.  You can reach me at 704-691-9545 or brad.rippetoe@ymcacharlotte.orgor on most social media platforms.”   

Submitted by Brad Rippetoe