My Desert Experience

By: Maya Tarnoff, Bus 8A

When I first heard that we were camping in the desert for 4 days in a row, I was indifferent. I was worried about the lack of showers, toilets, and air conditioning in the scorching heat. But the first night when I saw the stars from my mat on the desert floor, I was so grateful. The stars were one of the most bright and beautiful things I have ever seen. Since I couldn’t capture it in photos, I hope to come back some other time to see them again. The desert is calm and quiet, very different from my home. Being there allowed me to feel connected to nature and to the land of Israel. Going on hikes, singing camp songs on Shabbat, and eating meals were all new experiences in the desert, and they helped me see everything from a new perspective. Overall, even though there were some hard parts, I’m really glad that I went to the desert with my camp friends because it was fun and so meaningful!

The Hope “HaTikvah” is Freedom

The Hope “HaTikvah” is Freedom

By: Ariel Fogelman, Director of Yallah! Israel For three thousand years the story of Passover has been a story of hope. In the book of Exodus chapter 12, all the details of the holiday are given. The people of Israel are still slaves and cannot celebrate anything in...

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Notes from Rabbi Erin Mason

Notes from Rabbi Erin Mason

We are re-sharing this blog post written by Rabbi Erin Mason, Director of URJ Greene Family Camp, who recently traveled on FJC’s (Federation for Jewish Camp) Camp Professionals Israel Mission.   In mid-February, I participated in a mission with the Foundation for...

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Three Months I Will Never Forget

Three Months I Will Never Forget

By: Alyssa Kruman, Summer 2023 Madricha, Camp Harlam Bus 15 Summer 2023 was three months that I will never forget. There was nothing more rewarding than being by the side of Jewish teens experiencing the most special place for the first time. Each day brought new...

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Reflections from my trip to Israel

Reflections from my trip to Israel

We are re-sharing this blog post written by Rabbi Ilana Mills, Director of URJ Camp Kalsman, who recently traveled on FJC's (Federation for Jewish Camp) Camp Professionals Israel Mission. By: Rabbi Ilana Mills, Camp Kalsman Director When I stand with a wedding couple...

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