As I watch the Chanukah lights brighten my window, I am filled with joy thinking about all the ways our camp community has brought warmth and light throughout the year. In a world that often feels complicated and, at times, dark, I’m constantly amazed by how the power of our camp connection shines ever brighter.
I’ve had the privilege of witnessing our GFC family create magic in our communities throughout the year. From our amazing Greene Chaverim Havdalah dinners and pool parties in the spring to those incredible Visitor Shabbatot that had us all finding our way back to Bruceville over the summer. From cooling down during a popsicle or ice cream pop-up to picking out stickers and swag at a synagogue visit this fall. These events remind me that the warm embrace of this chosen family is constant and unwavering.
This warmth is never more present than at GFC over the summer. The energy and ruach (spirit) of our campers and staff coming together, each person embracing their authentic self, surrounded by others who share a part of their identity and values, reminded me again and again why camp matters so much. Whether I was joining in at song session, quietly reflecting on my week during Shabbat in the Beit K’nesset, or getting a second helping of mac ‘n’ cheese (talk about those pregnancy cravings!) in the chadar ochel (dining hall), I felt the endless love and support of my Camp family.
As I celebrate Chanukah and carry that light forward to 2025, I’m absolutely thrilled about the milestone we’re approaching – our 50th summer! When I think about five decades of friendships, Jewish connections, and unforgettable memories, I know we need a celebration as special as our community. Registration for our July 12 anniversary is just around the corner, and trust me, you don’t want to miss being part of this historic moment.
But before summer arrives, we have four fantastic year-round events we’re planning for spring – Family Camp and Teen Extravaganza February 7-9 and Spring Camp and Mitzvah Weekend March 21-23. I know these gatherings will bring our community together and build anticipation for the remarkable year ahead and I hope you will join us.
Like the miracle of the Chanukah oil, I’ve seen how camp’s impact extends far beyond what might seem possible. I’ve watched GFC create a space where Jewish youth discover their voices, build lasting friendships, and strengthen their connection to tradition and community. In challenging times and times of change, I’ve felt firsthand how our Camp family remains a constant source of support and light.
I invite you to join me in spreading this light by sharing the gift of camp with others. When we refer new families, give meaningful gifts to our scholarship fund, or engage with the wider community, we make our GFC family even stronger. During our Chanukah Raffle, happening every night of Chanukah, all enrolled campers are entered into a chance to win $500 off tuition. For every new family you refer and who enrolls during Chanukah, you receive one extra entry. We are also in the middle of our Chanukah Giving Challenge – a way for our community to come together to raise $18,000 for camp scholarships at GFC.
Tonight, as I light my menorah, I’m filled with gratitude for this remarkable community and excitement for the year ahead. As I soon bring our youngest camper into the world, I am thankful to have the love and support of my GFC family. Every candle reminds me of the warmth we create together as Camp and inspires me to carry that ruach forward as we celebrate fifty unforgettable summers.
May your hearts be full of Camp memories, your latkes crispy, and your Chanukah celebrations as bright as a campfire under the stars.
Happy Chanukah and Shabbat Shalom,
Marissa Meador, Associate Director