What an unbelievable start to the summer! As we wrap up our first week of Session 1, we couldn’t be more proud to celebrate everything that’s already unfolded here at camp.
We opened the summer by welcoming 285 campers and more than 150 staff, and from the very first moments there has been a sense of ruach (spirit) and connection that has carried through each day. With more than 20 activities already underway, campers have filled each day with enthusiasm and a genuine excitement to try something new.
Evenings have quickly become a time when the whole community comes back together, each night with its own feel but the same sense of togetherness that makes camp so magical. Over the week, campers have enjoyed everything from Summerween and Mario Kart to the Variety Show, Lip Sync Battle, Escape Room, Grimy Games, and so much more. Some nights have been loud, silly, and full of laughter, like at Dutch Family Picnic and Water Games, while others have been a little more relaxed, with Board Game Night, and our “Under the Stars” campout with the Israeli Scouts, where campers made pita together.
No two evenings have looked the same, but each one has brought us closer as a community and has allowed for the magic of camp to really be felt by all who are here (and all who look at our social media/photos!). Every night we’ve also come together for t’filah (prayer) or song session, giving campers a chance to connect through music and Jewish joy, while building a true sense of kehillah kedosha (holy community). Alongside that, our 5 wonderful visiting faculty members have been guiding thoughtful and engaging Jewish learning throughout the week.
All of that connection and energy doesn’t just live in our evening programs, it carries into the everyday moments that fill camp, too. For example, the Chadar Ochel (dining hall) might seem like it’s just about meals, but it’s really one of the places where camp comes together most naturally. There’s something about sitting side by side, whether over a bowl of cereal (which, unsurprisingly, has become a favorite at all hours), at orange chicken night, with pancakes in the morning, or taquitos at lunch, that creates space for joy and connection that carries far beyond the table.
It’s also where each day begins with intention. Our 5 incredible Cornerstone Fellows have been leading Tekes Boker (morning ceremonies) every morning, bringing camp’s 6 values to life in ways that feel both meaningful and accessible for campers and staff. Those moments help set the tone for the day ahead, grounding everyone in a shared sense of purpose. And every so often, there’s an added spark of joy, like a visit from Hebrew Homie, that reminds us how fun and uplifting Jewish life at camp can be.
We’ve already celebrated 11 birthdays, each one filled with smiles and cookie cake, and that warm feeling that comes from being part of something so special (how special is it?)
You can really feel camp settling in now. There’s a comfort, an excitement, and so much anticipation in the air, especially as we head into our very first Shabbat together tonight.
We’re so glad to be sharing this summer with you and can’t wait to keep you updated in the weeks ahead.
L’Shalom
The Greene Team