Related Blog Posts on Summer Youth Experiences

Summer is Coming: A Look at Shabbat at Camp vs. Home

Jordan Pelavin

Summer is coming soon, and it’s all I can think about this Shabbat, when I am at home in D.C., dreaming of Massachusetts. Because out of all of the things I love about camp, it’s possible I love Shabbat the most. And as my countdown ticks down, my excitement riles up.

Don’t Yuck My Yum: Life Lessons from Summer Camp

Rabbi Karen Perolman

When I feel the judgmental emotions or FOMO (fear of missing out) rising inside of me, I remind myself of a lesson I first learned as a counselor at URJ Camp Harlam, a Reform Jewish summer camp in Kunkletown, PA: “Don’t yuck someone else’s yum.” In other words, if someone else likes doing something and it makes them happy, then let them enjoy it – no matter whether or not you like it.

Remembering My Shamash

Jordan Pelavin

It’s the fourth day of Hanukkah and already my hanukkiyah is covered in wax. It drips down the arms and covers the base and gets stuck where the candles are supposed to be placed. It needs to be cleaned, so I’ll clean it

This year, the world lost someone who

Jewish Life Flourishes at Belarus Summer Camp

Steve Goldberg and Rita Fruman

The fears and uncertainties surrounding the continuing crisis in Ukraine has had an effect on this year’s Inter-Regional Summer Camps. Despite a few changes, camp went on as planned, providing campers with much-needed relief and fun, as well as exposure to Jewish life.