Last Shabbat, Rabbi Schwartzman visited the Union for Reform Judaism’s Camp Harlam in Kunkletown, PA. She spent some time with all the Temple Rodef Shalom campers and counselors on Saturday afternoon after the morning service. Everyone was excited for the treats she brought but also for the hugs she gave everyone. . . that little bit of home always feels good! Ari Paskoff, TRS Youth Director, was also there for the weekend and had the chance to catch up with everyone.
In addition to visits by various TRS clergy and staff each summer, a special touch is a personal letter sent from our clergy to campers and staff at sleep away. Just like the visits, this little touch helps our kids stay connected to the TRS community while they are away from home.
We have approximately 120 TRS children attending Jewish sleep away camp this summer. This report, by the Foundation for Jewish Camp, offers interesting insights into the impact of Jewish sleep away camp experiences. There’s no denying the affect it had on Rabbi Schwartzman as she attributes her time at Camp Harlam as one of the primary factors in her desire to seek the rabbinate.
In addition to the emotional aspects of sending a child to camp, TRS also offers financial support. Thanks to the Jennifer Blalock Scholarship Fund, over $20,000 in scholarship has been offered to TRS families seeking financial assistance in sending their children to Jewish camps (as well as NFTY events) over the past 20 years. Visit our website to make a donation to this fund.