In this episode of PrideScape, guest podcast host Ian Morton sits down with Randy Bodkin (he/ him), Camp Director of Camp Starlight to explore how community, connection and belonging can help our communities thrive.
Randy shares his journey with Camp Starlight, an Oregon nonprofit dedicated to creating a safe, affirming, and empowering overnight camp experience for youth impacted by HIV/AIDS and LGBTQIA+ youth. Together Ian and Randy discuss the importance of spaces, like Camp Starlight, that create safe, affirming, and empowering environments for youth, reflecting the growing need for supportive communities where LGBTQ2SIA+ youth feel seen.
As part of Pride Northwest’s Community Resilience series, this episode explores what it means to build resilience through chosen family, meaningful relationships, volunteering and everyday acts of community care. Randy and Ian reflect on the lasting impact of showing up for youth and the communities we belong to, and how each of us can plug in to strengthen our communities.
After tuning in:
Learn more and plug in with Camp Starlight: Camp Starlight
Learn more and plug in with Pride Northwest’s Community Resilience Drive: Community Resilience | PRIDE NORTHWEST, INC.
Guest Bio:
Randy Bodkin (he/him) is the Camp Director of Camp Starlight, an Oregon nonprofit dedicated to creating a safe, affirming, and empowering overnight camp experience for youth impacted by HIV/AIDS and LGBTQIA+ youth.
Randy’s journey with Camp Starlight began in 2002 as a volunteer cabin counselor. Over the past two decades, his passion for the camp’s mission has grown alongside the organization. In 2013, he helped establish Camp Starlight as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and today he continues to lead its mission of creating a place where every young person feels seen, valued, and celebrated.
Outside of camp, Randy shares his life with his husband of 13 years and their partner of nearly two years. Together, they enjoy life on their small hobby farm in Oregon City, Oregon, surrounded by animals and plenty of adventures.
Listen to this episode and all previous episodes on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform!
PrideScape
Formally known as the PrideScape Podcast, PrideScape is the evolving storytelling platform of Pride Northwest. Through podcasts, articles, videos, and more, we bring together multiple outlets for stories, discussions, important news and information affecting Oregon and SW Washington's LGBTQ+ community. Learn more: PrideScape Media | PRIDE NORTHWEST, INC.
