Related Blog Posts on Featured on Instagram, Racial Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion (REDI) Communities of Belonging, and Summer Youth Experiences
Supporting Immigrants and Refugees in This Challenging Moment
Background on recent Reform Movement statements, longstanding Reform Movement policies, and opportunities for action by individuals, congregations, and communities.
Specialized Programs Cater to Campers’ Interests
When it comes to choosing an overnight camp, there are a variety of options to consider, each offering unique experiences to suit different interests and needs.
Jewish Pride + Jewish Community = Strong Jewish Future
In North America, our community has been dealing with rising levels of antisemitism and fears about being attacked for the crime of being Jewish. It was against this backdrop that I arrived in the safe haven that is URJ's Crane Lake Camp.
Why is Jewish Summer Camp Important?
Jewish summer camps provide children the opportunity to immerse themselves in Jewish culture, engage in ritual and education, challenge themselves physically and spiritually, and prepare to be leaders in and out of the Jewish community.
Teens Urge Congress to Protect Voting Rights
This Independence Day, we a pleased share a speech about voting rights written by Larkin B. and Noah F. from Congregation Emanu El in Houston, Texas.
What Should Jewish LGBTQ+ Spaces Look Like?
For many LGBTQ+ Jews in the United States, LGBTQ+ synagogues and organizations offer that sustenance.
Empowering Camp Staff and Counselors to Address Difficult Questions about Israel and Beyond
As we gear up for another unforgettable summer at URJ Camps - and with some camps already in full swing - we are reminded that today, more than ever, providing safe, nurturing spaces for our campers, counselors, and staff is of utmost importance.
Being Honest with God and Myself
I took the Commandments seriously. However, one of the Commandments deeply resonated above all others: "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor," meaning "You shall not lie" (Exodus 20:13). This affected me most because I was lying to others and myself about a core aspect of my identity: my bisexuality.
Communities of Belonging Don’t Just Happen…URJ Camps are Putting in the Work
While camp is an oasis away from everyday life, it still exists in a world that has much work to do around harm prevention, particularly for Campers of Color, gender-diverse campers, campers with a variety of body sizes, and campers with disabilities.
Embracing Jewish Identity, Learning to Lead: The Lifelong Benefits of Working at Summer Camp
The recent rise in antisemitism on college campuses has sparked concerns among students, parents, and communities. As the challenges faced by Jewish students navigating higher education persist, there is a growing need for safe spaces that celebrate Jewish identity and foster a sense of belonging.