This summer 14 children from the Jewish Peninsula experienced the magic of Jewish overnight camp, thanks to you. With your support, we sent a record number of local kids to Jewish sleepaway camps in 2025, providing them with the opportunity to build lifelong friendships, strengthen their Jewish identity and create memories that will last a lifetime.
For many families, the dream of camp became a reality because of the One Happy Camper grants. Every first-time camper received between $1,000 and $1,500 toward their experience. In 2025, these grants were increased to meet the rising costs of camp. Your generosity ensured that no child was left out of this transformative Jewish experience.
The impact of camp shines through in the stories campers shared. Setzer F. came home proudly declaring, “I learned to sail! And we all helped pull the boat out of the water when it went sideways… I’m excited to go back next year.” For Edele T. it was the friendships and daily adventures: “I liked going to Capital Camps because the pool was great and fun, I liked swimming in the lake, I liked hatif which is snack in Hebrew, and I liked making new friends. I had the best counselors!”
Camp also gave children the courage to take on new challenges. Ben F. reflected, “The zip line at Camp Havaya was really fun and everyone helped me overcome my fear of heights.” For Maya O., the moments of Jewish connection stood out most: “My favorite part of camp each day was Siyum, a chance for the whole camp to get together and complete the day by singing Hashkiveinu and the Shema.”
Even seasoned campers continue to grow year after year. As Max M., now in his fourth summer at Sababa Beachaway, shared: “I always have a really fun time surfing and celebrating Shabbat. I like that I get to choose from different style services each week. The meditation one is my favorite. Word to the wise… you never go to camp for the food!” And sometimes, the biggest surprise is discovering new passions—like Eliot S., who admitted with a smile, “I was surprised how much I liked the dancing.”
Each of these experiences reflects the joy, growth and Jewish pride that camp fosters. Because of your generosity, these children came home with not only stories of sailing, surfing, swimming and singing, but also with stronger Jewish identities and a sense of belonging that will carry into the future.
Together, we made this record-breaking summer possible. Thank you for believing in the power of camp to shape the next generation of Jewish life.
