Fort Worth, Texas (September 2, 2014) – In the August 28 board meeting, Zem Neill, president/CEO of Camp Fire First Texas, announced she will be retiring from her position in 2015.
One third of the 100 year history of Camp Fire First Texas has been shaped by Neill’s vision and leadership. Since 1978 she has guided the organization through both funding and societal changes. The staff has grown from 27 to more than 100 and each year, more than 20,000 youth and adults are served by one of Camp Fire’s programs.
“This is an exciting time of growth, discovery and renewal for the organization,” shared Neill,” as well as for me.”
Neill has served as president/CEO of Camp Fire First Texas for 36 years. During that time she has served on Camp Fire’s National Board twice, as a member of the National CEO Search Committee and numerous other committees, and as National President of the Camp Fire Association of Professionals. She is in demand as a presenter at Camp Fire conferences, peer training seminars, and has mentored many Camp Fire and other non-profit professionals on fundraising, planning and management. Prior to coming to Camp Fire First Texas, she was the Executive Director of the Amarillo Council of Camp Fire.
The value and importance she placed on running an agency using sound business principles allowed Camp Fire First Texas to consistently be recognized as a successful nonprofit organization.
As a dedicated steward of the organization’s resources, Neill has led three capital campaigns that resulted in contributions of over $15 million for facilities and services for the youth and families in our communities. She also oversaw the development of the Camp Fire Foundation, which has grown to over $6 million in assets providing financial stability. Under her leadership, Camp Fire began An Artists’ Christmas, a unique fundraiser that incorporated art, creativity and purpose, now in its 30th year.
She is also shepherding the renovation of Camp Fire’s 223-acre Camp El Tesoro to preserve the outdoor experience for future generations. While under Neill’s leadership, Camp Fire began supporting work in the early childhood arena and the organization has continued making strides in advancement of early childhood education through longitudinal outcomes research in school readiness.
“There isn’t any doubt in my mind that Zem Neill could lead any entity in this country. I am thrilled that Fort Worth has had the benefit of her successful leadership. Our community is better because of Zem Neill,” said Lauri Curtis Hadobas, vice chairman, administration and incoming board chair for Camp Fire First Texas.
Neill will be working closely with Camp Fire First Texas Executive Committee and board on a timeline and details of transitioning the organization to new staff leadership. A specific date for transition in 2015 has not been determined.
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Camp Fire
Camp Fire is one of the nation’s leading nonprofit youth development organizations, serving youth, teens, and families in communities across the United States. Camp Fire programs are research-based, delivered where youth and families are via out-of-school time, environmental and camp, and teen service, and leadership programs. Because youth want to shape the world, Camp Fire’s focus is giving youth and teens the opportunity to find their sparks, lift their voice, and discover who they are. Camp Fire programs are proven to develop young peoples’ skills now so they can reach their full potential. Learn more about the history of how this vital organization has continued to serve children and those that teach them throughout the last century by visiting CampFireFW.org.
