YJ summer of solace, joy and pride

YJ summer of solace, joy and pride

Summer camp can often feel like an oasis— a refuge from the usual worries and fears of everyday life. This summer, that sense of escape was stronger than ever. We’re in a time where ‘real life’ feels unpredictable. Our hostages could be brought home, the war could end, and we will have a new president soon. But at camp, the comfort of community, specifically of Jewish community, made the uneasiness dissipate, even if for a short time.

From the moment campers arrived at one of the seven Young Judaea camps, they exhaled. They happily reunited with friends in a place they call home, and felt comfortable to fully express their Jewish pride. How inspiring it was to see chanichim and madrichim alike, proudly don their Magen David’s or Chai’s on their shirts.

Before camp opened, the staff decided that this summer would be a news and screen-free environment. They carefully selected which news to share with campers and staff, not to shield them from the outside world, but to help them remain present. In the end, this decision proved invaluable. Many campers and staff expressed their gratitude, noting how they were able to wake up and go to sleep without the constant anxiety of the day’s news cycle.

Unplugging was the first step.

As camp began, there were concerns about how the college age students, many of whom were coming from campuses that were taken over by encampments and hostile environments would adapt to camp life.

At one of our camps, through a podcast project focused on helping people craft their Israel stories, the staff took several days to learn how to deeply listen to one another and to be vulnerable in sharing their stories. The American staff shared their campus war stories, and Israeli staff shared their Israel war stories – many had just returned from the army or had lost family and friends since October 7th.

Holding one another was the next step.

Mostly, this was a summer like any other. Campers went to the pool, sang shira at the top of their lungs, and cheered their friends on at Maccabia/bikkurim. They danced rikkud, sang Hatikvah, and slept under the stars. They connected with their madrichims, both American and Israeli.

Making joy normal again was the final step.

As we close out summer 2024, take the time to thank the extraordinary tzevet (staff) at each camp and sign up for next summer – your kids and grandkids deserve it!

Shabbat Shalom,

Adina Frydman,
CEO Young Judaea Global

YJ’s Central Shaliach’s Summer Camp Tour

YJ’s Central Shaliach’s Summer Camp Tour

My name is Amit Castel and I am Young Judaea’s Central Shaliach and Director of Israel Education. As I wrap up my first year in this role, I had the incredible fortune of touring YJ camps across the country this summer. After a year full of challenges and unique experiences, I was eager to visit the iconic locations I had only heard about.

My journey began at CYJ Midwest in Wisconsin. Nestled by a picturesque lake, this camp is a vibrant hub for over 100 campers, offering them countless opportunities for summer fun. Despite some unpredictable weather, the spirit of the staff and campers remained high. The dedicated Tzofot (Israeli scouts) designed a beautiful toren (flagpole), and alongside the Israeli delegation, they orchestrated a memorable Yom Israel. We also paid tribute to the 120 hostages, with yellow ribbons displayed prominently and meals prepared in honor of their favorite dishes.

Next, I traveled to Camp Judaea in Hendersonville, North Carolina. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, CJ offers a breathtaking setting for hundreds of campers. The activities here are both engaging and educational, creating lasting memories. A particularly moving moment was seeing campers gathered at Mifkad Boker (morning flag raising) next to a handcrafted yellow ribbon from the carpentry workshop—a powerful reminder of this summer’s unique significance.

From there, I headed to Camp Tel Yehudah, along the iconic Delaware River in NY’s Pocono Mountains, just in time for Maccabiah! The energy and excitement were palpable, with the blue team emerging victorious. The dedication and enthusiasm from all the teams were truly inspiring. After a meaningful Shabbat filled with educational experiences, the week concluded with a deeply moving Havdalah and Rikkud (Israeli dance party). Despite the heat, the celebration seemed endless. Sunday was especially poignant, marking nine months since October 7th and honoring members of the TY community. The day’s activities, each reflecting the traits and values of those we remembered, culminated in a profoundly emotional ceremony with distinguished guests. It was a touching end to my visit, bringing me closer to home. As Young Judaea’s National Teen Camp, representing all of the Junior camps within its community, it is a true melting pot of tradition and personality.

My next stop was Sprout Lake, near Poughkeepsie, NY where the camp’s atmosphere makes you feel like you’re stepping into a kibbutz in Israel. Among the many exciting activities, I was struck by the project where campers painted clay roses as a tribute to southern Israel’s blooming roses, and appreciative to have the opportunity to participate myself. These roses will decorate the camp’s ceiling, serving as a powerful reminder to aspire for growth, hope and continuity.

Finally, I arrived at CYJ Texas. Despite the sweltering heat, the camp buzzed with activity—Mexico Day, Yom Israel, and various other exciting events made for an unforgettable experience. The camp’s deep connection to Israel was evident in the decorations, flags, and inspiring murals. The all-camp show, featuring a humorous theater performance, vibrant dance routines, and a captivating exhibit of Tzofiut (scouts), showcased the campers’ talents and enthusiasm.

Witnessing over 2,000 campers across five immersive camps unplug from their screens to celebrate their Jewish identity and love for Israel was truly uplifting. Our camps offer more than just fun; they provide a space to be fully present, share unforgettable moments, and deepen one’s connection to Israel. Many campers return year after year, and some even come back as staff, helping to build the community that has shaped so much of who they are. This summer has been remarkable, and I’m already looking forward to what we can build this coming year!

10 Things You Don’t Know About Me – Amit Castel

10 Things You Don’t Know About Me – Amit Castel

Get to know Young Judaea’s new Central Shaliach and Director of Israel Education, Amit Castel!

 

Bring back that summer feeling

Bring back that summer feeling

By Adina Frydman, CEO of Young Judaea Global

As we turn the page on summer and try to hold on to the final moments of sun,  we feel the shift from pre to post Labor Day (well, at least if you are in the Northeast). For those in the South or West, you are already deeply in the routine of school.

As I head into the office in 94-degree weather, although it still feels like summer, I know that the truth is, my summer is over. For YJ campers each year, the end of summer doesn’t just signify the start of school, it means the end of camp!

This summer, I had the pleasure of touring all seven camps and was reminded again of what is so unique and special about a Young Judaea camp. Let me tell you what I saw.

Unadulterated joy and laughter throughout the day. The playfulness of wearing pajamas all day, making string bracelets, having mud fights, bug juice, cheers and song, and of course the magic of a camp Shabbat. Not to mention the staff are sometimes sillier than the campers (to make it fun for the kids of course…)

I saw kids getting out of their comfort zone to try a new sport, meet a new friend, and challenge their existing perspectives by encountering different opinions.

At camp I witnessed incredible sportsmanship, balanced with healthy competition. While the joke is that we are all winners in Young Judaea, that is actually not true in color war, bikurim, and maccabiah. But most impressive is that the winning teams cheer on everyone else with as much enthusiasm as they cheer for their own win.

Lastly, I saw exemplary role modeling from our tzevet (camp staff). And while this applies to all staff, I am particularly talking about the young seasonal staff who would do anything to make sure that every chanich (camper) has the best experience possible: no camper left behind.

From the early morning wake up rituals to peulot laila tov (good night activities), they are the heroes that make every moment count. And it is only sweeter because they are part of a long chain of Young Judaeans passing on the traditions that their madrichim (counselors) gave to them.

These are just some of the highlights of what I saw at camp this summer. No wonder we are sad to let it go! Perhaps we can hold on to that camp feeling as we go back to our year-round lives.

As we wind up another fabulous season with over 3500 campers, I want to thank…

All the staff who gave their all this summer.

All the parents for trusting us with their kids.

All of YOU for supporting each of our camps and Young Judaea to make these magical summers a success!

See you in the summer of 2024!

Camp Registration is open already with early bird discounts – don’t wait!

Sincerely,

Adina

10 Things You Don’t Know About Me – Hannah Wallick

10 Things You Don’t Know About Me – Hannah Wallick

Get to know CYJ Midwest’s new Camp Director, Hannah Wallick!

 

 

Meet the 2022-2023 Mazkirut!

Meet the 2022-2023 Mazkirut!

Baylee Krulewitz,  National Mazkira

Hi! I’m Baylee Krulewitz and I’m from West Hartford, Connecticut. As National Mazkira, I hope to give back to the movement that’s provided me with the friends and memories of a lifetime. I’ve been involved in Year Round YJ for three years now, but I’ve been going to camp for nine. In terms of YJ’s future, I hope to promote year round events in areas outside of the Northeast, as well ensure that we’re including various opportunities for social action in our programming. Outside of Young Judaea, you can usually find me shopping or going out to eat with my friends. I’m looking forward to recruiting many new teens into Year Round YJ!

Mia Avni, Administrative Vice President

 


Hi! I’m Mia Avni, the 2022-23 National AVP. I’m from Westfield, NJ and have been involved with Young Judaea since I was nine years old, a former camper of both Sprout Lake and Tel Yehudah. I started participating in year-round YJ programs in 8th grade and got my first elected Mazkirut position last year as NJ AVP. I was inspired to run for National Mazkirut and be more active in the movement because it has given me some of the best friends and summers I could ever ask for while also educating me on what it means to be a Jew and my connection to Israel. In my free time, you’ll find me listening to music, playing with robots, and perfecting my coffee-making skills. I’m beyond excited to work alongside this year’s National Mazkirut and can’t wait to see what we accomplish!

Uri Levinson, Merakez Zarit

Hi! My name is Uri Levinson and I’m from Monterrey, Mexico. I went to CYJ Texas and to Camp Tel Yehudah both for 2 years, I’ve been a part of YJ since 2018 and I’m still amazed by how amazing this movement is and how it has helped me grow, learn and make friends while having a fun time. This is why I wanted to be on National Maz as soon as I heard about it. I love playing soccer and baseball, watching sitcoms, hanging out with friends and spending time with my family. I am really excited to be Merakez Zarit as I look forward to bringing more international teenagers into YJ, working with fellow National Mazkirut members to have a great National Convention and enhance year-round YJ.  

Gabriella Stein, Chavurah Programmer

Hello everyone! My name is Gabriella Stein and I am from Long Island, New York. I have been involved with Young Judaea for over 10 years now. I started going to Camp Sprout Lake in 2013 and my Young Judaea journey has moved at a rapid pace since. I looked forward to camp every summer up until this past year when I went on Gesher. I got to go to Israel with all the people I used to count down the days until the first day of camp with. After Gesher I went back to Sprout Lake to work as a counselor. I was lucky enough to be last year’s LINYC Bogrim Programmer and I couldn’t be more thrilled to have the opportunity to be the first  Chavurah Programmer on the National Mazkirut. I am so honored to be able to represent an organization that has given me so much. I can’t wait to build this position and give all the other budding Young Judaeans a chance to blossom in such a wonderful community!

Noa Ganz, Social Action & Israel Programmer

Hey everyone! I’m Noa Ganz, this year’s Social action and Israel programmer. Last year, I was Social action programmer on LINYC Maz. I am so excited to be the first Israel programmer and introduce new ideas to Young Judaea. YJ means the world to me, as it has introduced me to life long friends, given me the best summers of my life, and shaped me into who I am today. Last summer, I went on Gesher then worked at Sprout Lake as a counselor. Outside of YJ, I love to write, listen to music, and hang out with friends! Something you didn’t know about me is that my favorite fruit is pineapple. I am also allergic to pineapple.

Maya Reiken

Hi! My name is Maya Reiken and I am from White Plains, NY. For the past eight years, I have been a part of Young Judaea, attending Camp Sprout Lake, Camp Tel Yehudah, Gesher, and participating in Year-Round YJ. I spent the last two years on the Empire Mazkirut, first as the Social Action Programmer and then as the Bogrim Programmer. Young Judaea helped shape who I am today and gave me lifelong friends, so I am thrilled to be the first Rosh Programmer. This year, I want to change the way the programming workshops are done by making them more engaging and informative. In my free time, I love to hang out with my friends, bake, watch New Girl, and listen to Taylor Swift. I’m excited to take on this role and work with my fellow National Mazkirut members, the regional Mazkiruyot, and regions that want to be more actively involved in YJ to provide them with the resources they need to succeed and to keep building the YJ community through our events and programming! 

Samara Kohn

Hello Judaeans!  My name is Samara Kohn and I am from Queens, NY. I have been a part of Young Judaea for about two years. My first taste of YJ was Hadracha summer 2021. After having the best summer of my life I decided to stick around for year round programming and became LINYC Pirsum. Some of my hobbies include playing with my hamster, George, warming the bench on my school’s volleyball team, and of course, making insta casual again. On weekends you can most likely find me hanging out with my fellow maz members in Manhattan while spamming my social media accounts. I am greatly honored to be your National Pirsum and most of all, having access to the National YJ Instagram account.

Montana Torah Finds a New Home at CYJ-Texas

Montana Torah Finds a New Home at CYJ-Texas

Camp Young Judaea-Texas is now in possession of their very own Torah, and it’s from Butte, Montana! Thanks to the Jewish Community Legacy Project, an organization that among many things, works to find homes for ritual objects that are no longer in use, CYJ-Texas was given the incredible gift of a Torah to use throughout the summer and on special occasions like the recent bar mitzvah of Jack Wallace that took place at camp. Through work with the staff of JCLP in her previous position at UJA-Federation NY, Young Judaea Global CEO, Adina Frydman, was able to help make this ‘shiduch’ between the organization and CYJ-Texas. One closed congregation’s Sefer Torah has now became part of the story of the vibrant camp community that is CYJ-Texas. The connection with this congregation has made it possible to continue the mesorah (tradition) for another generation to come!

Jack Wallace reads from the donated Torah at his Bar Mitzvah at CYJ-Texas on October 2, 2021.