Jewish Life
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Jewish culture, wisdom, and traditions are an important part of the J Camps program. With the support of our on site Rabbi, professional educators, Israeli staff, and counselors, campers participate in joyful experiences exploring how Jewish values and actiobs impact not only their lives, but also their family, community, and the world at large.
The most frequently asked question is “Does my child need to be Jewish to attend J Camps?” The answer is simple: we embrace and welcome everyone in our community regardless of religious affiliation. We believe that everyone can seek meaning and fulfillment by participating in our rich programming that is inspired by our Jewish heritage and values.
Jewish Values
All of our camps are infused with Jewish values such as kehillah (community), hakira (curiosity), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and ruach (spirit). We explore each of these values more deeply during the summer, focusing on specific values in each session. We strive to have these values guide all of our interactions.
In Camp Shabbat celebration
Every Friday your child will experience the magic of Shabbat at J Camps. We ask questions, light the Shabbat candles, sing, and have yummy Challah and grape juice jelly bean snacks!
Shabbabah
Each week during programming sessions we gather to further explore a specific Jewish value and participate in meaningful community service projects, in partnership with the Jewish Volunteer Connection.
Mensch Moments
Throughout the week our counselors are on the look out catching our campers in 'mensch moments' - times when they may specifically portray our value of the week, doing a good deed, or being a mensch! We will celebrate these moments on Friday during Shabbat.
Israeli Culture
Campers learn about the history and culture Israel of from our visiting Israeli Shlichim counselors and specialists. These lessons and impromptu sessions include cheers in Hebrew, singing Hebrew rap songs, and Israeli dancing.
Camp Family Shabbat
We believe that our families are partners in growth. As families participating together, we will facilitate meaningful memories for families as they celebrate Shabbat and Jewish holidays in fun and creative ways together with us as a camp community.
To learn more, contact Rabbie Ariel Platt, Director of J Life, at aplatt@jcc.org
J Life is made possible thanks to the generous support of The Meyerhoff Family Foundation
We didn't know what to expect…on a Judaic level. The amount and quality of Jewish songs, Israeli dances, and Jewish values that Evelyn came home with on a daily basis blew us away. Kol ha’kavod!
- Alison Z.