For youngsters entering third or fourth grade trying camp for the first time, our 12-day mini-camp, Nitzanim, is perfect. It includes all the fun, excitement, games, learning, exploration, and friendships of camp - just in a shorter time period. Nitzanim campers are fully included in the camp program and enjoy the community and friendships built at Camp JRF, all in a safe and fun environment that allows them to bloom into full-fledged campers next summer.
Entering fourth, fifth, and sixth graders plant their roots in the camp community as members of Ilanot. Ilanot campers take part in our regular camp program: swimming, drama, the challenge course, singing, boating, dancing, playing, and more. They dig deep into our traditions exploring Reconstructionist values and discovering how they can live as part of a 24/7 Jewish community.
Campers entering seventh and eighth grades are Nehalim, “rivers.” Nehalim provides an opportunity to dive more deeply into discussions, programs, and experiences and to more fully engage in the richness of Jewish civilizations. The Nehalim camper learns what it means to be part of a vibrant and constantly changing Jewish community - while enjoying all the fun of camp.
For entering ninth and tenth graders, Harim, “mountains,” provides an opportunity for campers to challenge themselves and others to strive to reach their goals. With the innovative programming and incredible activities campers expect from Camp JRF, these teens also have opportunities to take their place as leaders in the camp community.
Entering eleventh graders have the incomparable opportunity to spend more than three weeks climbing, swimming, singing, hiking, learning, and exploring their way through Israel with No’ar Hadash, the Reconstructionist Youth Movement. Participants will experience Shabbat in Jerusalem, see the sunrise over Masada, spend time with their Israeli peers, and discuss the realities of life in contemporary Israel. For more information, please click here.
Bonim is geared towards preparing entering twelfth graders for leadership roles in camp and beyond. Participants will learn what it takes to make camp run, to work as a counselor, and to facilitate programming across camp -- all with the goal of beginning to make the transition from camper to staff member in real and meaningful ways. With a small group of participants and a highly experienced staff, Bonim is sure to be a defining experience for all. Applicants for Bonim will have an interview with a member of the Camp staff prior to acceptance into the program.
Shemesh is a camp experience for children ages ten to fifteen with diagnoses such as autism, cognitive delays, developmental challenges, moderate speech and/or processing issues, and some forms of physical disabilities. For six days, campers will swim, play sports, sing, dance, explore nature, take an off-camp trip, and be part of the vibrant Jewish experience that is summer at Camp JRF. Designed as a parallel inclusion program, Shemesh campers will not only have time as a unit - as much as possible, they will participate alongside their peers in a variety of programs, including our moving Shabbat celebration. Click here for more information.
Camp isn’t only for kids anymore! Parents, children, and other family members can now join us for five days of swimming, sports, arts, havaya (experiential education), singing, dancing, and all the best that Camp JRF has to offer.
Winter: 101 Greenwood Avenue Suite 430, Jenkintown PA 19046
Summer: PO Box 10, 1 Pine Grove Road, South Sterling, PA 18460
© 2012 Camp JRF