Jewish Life

Jewish culture, wisdom, and traditions are an important part of the J Camps program.

Two boys waving Israel flags in celebration.

With the support of our on site Rabbi, professional educators, Israeli staff, and counselors, campers participate in joyful experiences exploring how Jewish values and actions 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.

To learn more, contact Rabbi 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.

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 The Network.

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.

Testimonials

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!

Parent

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