The busy summer season is at full throttle as I write. Many of the entrepreneurs we support are reporting that business is strong--they are hopeful for a record breaking season. That's the nature of much of our economy on the Lower Cape. The busy summer season is critical to success. While tourists are an important part of the summer season, equally important are our seasonal residents.

This is true for the CDP as well. My experience is that many of our seasonal residents are keenly aware of the challenges faced by far too many of our neighbors--working hard to earn a living in the short summer season and struggling to find a safe, affordable place to live year round. Many of the CDP's donors and volunteers are seasonal residents who are inspired to contribute to the work we do to support local business, provide more affordable housing and create a sustainable future for our region.

Recently, a CDP donor shared with me how hard it is to respond to all the worthy non-profits on the Cape. "I want this special place to remain special for me, my kids and my grandkids," he said. "And I know the CDP is working hard every day to make this community sustainable by helping small businesses thrive and creating more affordable places to live. I know that in supporting the CDP I am investing in this community that has given so much to me and my family."

Seasonal residents are an important part of our community and we are grateful to have them as partners in the work we do to create opportunities for people to live, work and thrive on the Lower Cape.