While the cooler air hasn’t quite ushered in a new season here in Texas, the ever-moving calendar dates push us closer to autumn and the season of Jewish holy days. Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is the first of these holidays and a time of reflection, renewal, and fresh starts. This year holds a special significance for me as I continue to embark on this journey in my new role at Greene Family Camp.
If we haven’t met, my name is Marissa (Astrich) Meador, and I started my new role as the Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications at GFC this past spring. Starting this position has involved adapting to new responsibilities, challenges, expectations, and many ‘firsts.’ Embracing these changes with an open heart has allowed me this fresh start, just as Rosh Hashanah brings the Jewish community a new beginning each year.
My experience with Jewish camping began at GFC when I was 7 years old. Bonim was hard! But every year that I returned to camp after got better and better. Even as I grew as a staff member here, each year felt more special than the last. GFC has always been a place of growth for me. I have come to recognize that part of the magic of camp is the space to step out of our comfort zones and allow that growth to happen. As I continue to grow on the full-time team, I think about how I have come full circle. I just completed my first summer in this role, just as I once completed my first summer as a Bonim camper. This summer was amazing and challenging for me at the same time, but I know each summer to come will continue to be better than the last.
With Summer 2023 behind us, we begin to adjust our focus to our upcoming registration for year-round events and Summer 2024 (all coming soon – stay tuned!). As I set goals for myself for the year, I can’t help but smile at the sweetness all around me. Just as we dip apples into honey during the New Year, I find myself immersed in a supportive and caring team that helps bring sweetness to my life. I am so thankful for the people around me, who prove every day that camp friends are best friends. They have embraced me and allowed for a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
As the Jewish holidays quickly approach, I can begin my next steps in this journey with the spirit of renewal, growth, and sweetness all around me. I hope to welcome you back to Greene Family Camp in the year to come and wish you a happy and sweet New Year.
Shanah Tovah and Shabbat Shalom,
Marissa Meador
Senior Manager, Marketing and Communications