Dear Members of the International Camping Fellowship,
I hope this newsletter finds you well as we reflect on the recent events and achievements within our community.
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of a true pioneer and legendary supporter of the international camping movement, Chuck Ackenbom. His contributions have left an indelible mark on our organization, and his legacy will be remembered with great admiration.
Despite the somber note of this announcement, I am pleased to report that our recent congress in Spain was a tremendous success. The spirit of camaraderie, shared knowledge, and passion for camping that permeated the event was a fitting tribute to Chuck’s memory. We will continue to honor his legacy by carrying forward the torch he so passionately lit.
Looking ahead, we are excited about the prospect of the International Camping Congress (ICC) in 2026. The ICC Selection Team is hard at work, evaluating potential hosting countries. We encourage interested parties to read the congress bid details in this newsletter and consider submitting their bids by December 15th, 2023. The committee will diligently review all submissions and announce the next hosting country by mid-January 2024.
In the spirit of continuous learning, the ICF Academy is gearing up for a new episode that will delve into the valuable lessons learned from ICC 2023. Stay tuned for insightful discussions and perspectives that will further enrich our understanding of best practices in the camping world.
As we navigate these times of change and remembrance, let us stay united and committed to the principles that Chuck Ackenbom so fervently championed. Together, we can ensure that the international camping movement thrives and evolves, leaving a lasting impact on future generations.
Thank you for your dedication and passion for the International Camping Fellowship.
Warm regards,
Fahrettin (Fahri) Gozet
ICF President 2023 – 2026