Read more about campers' experiences in their own words

Twenty Congregation Etz Chaim kids recently returned from summer camp at OSRUI Kallah and Kibbutz HaTzofim. Kallah is designed for younger and first-time campers who live in a cabin with 2 counselors and about 12 other campers. Tzofim is designed for campers who are independent and really enjoy outdoor living; these campers live in a large, cabin-size tent (sleeping on bunk beds) with about 10 other campers and 2 counselors. Many of these kids attended both the Aleph and Bet sessions, thus enjoying up to four weeks away from home.

All campers spent their days swimming and participating in electives such as photography, dance, drama, visual arts, media and nature. Each day also included Hebrew lessons and worship. Those campers not already exhausted from these activities got a chance to climb the 5-story Alpine Tower, also called Jacob’s Ladder! Tzofim campers took on additional responsibilities such as helping with the garden, taking care of the rabbits, chickens, and sheep, helping prepare meals, and building a campfire. 

Campers also had an opportunity to have a role in a podcast where the kids recorded their camping experiences.

I had an opportunity to interview two of the campers who were both happy to be back home and very excited to tell us all about their own OSRUI experiences.

Brendan S. returned to OSRUI for his second year as a Kallah camper for both the Aleph and Bet sessions. His favorite activity was the archery competition where he won the overall championship trophy and Jared L. won first place. Mazel Tov to both Brendan and Jared! Brendan admitted that he was a little homesick at first, but it miraculously disappeared after the first night! Brendan and his mother Nikki were both so elated when he returned; as they ran toward each other, Brendan jumped into Nikki’s arms and almost knocked her over!

Sydney W. spent her first time away at summer camp at Kibbutz HaTzofim for both the Aleph and Bet sessions. She made many new friends including girls from congregations in Minnesota and Pennsylvania. Her favorite activities were swimming and tubing in the lake. She also enjoyed archery and climbing the tower. Sydney returned home excited that she could finally take a shower to wash away the “rotten egg” smell and sleep in a bit longer!

Welcome back Brendan, Sydney, and all of the Kallah and HaTzofim campers!

Reported by Mike Field