OU SUMMER PROGRAMS

FOR CHILDREN AND TEENS Grade 5 through High School

Sarah, a once-reserved fifth-grader, was hesitant about attending OU Israel's Camp Dror Program. Born to a Jewish mother and a non-Jewish father, Sarah had limited exposure to her Jewish heritage. In our program, she discovered a welcoming community that helped her embrace her Jewish identity.

Sarah's newfound confidence and connection to her roots continue to enrich her life and the lives of her family members.

Sarah

OU Israel's Camp Dror

2,600 Participants

25 Programs

The OU offers over 25 unique teen summer programs in the US, Israel, Europe and Africa that cater to teens with different interests and backgrounds representing the complete spectrum of the Jewish community.

From sports to corporate internships to work with Israeli first responders, OU summer programs provide a panorama of experiences unbounded by geography and activity.

Seeing the World

"JOLT Europe summer trip is a truly enriching experience, combining Jewish learning, leadership skills, and the exploration of Europe's rich history and culture. It's an extraordinary journey of personal growth and global awareness, creating unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships."

"My summer with NCSY Kollel Mechina was an eye-opening adventure. It felt like stepping into a whole new world of knowledge

The learning was fascinating, and the sports and trips around Israel kept things fun and engaging. It was a place where I could grow intellectually and personally.

This experience gave me an appreciation for my heritage and broadened my perspectives. "

"Going on The Anne Samson Jerusalem Journey (TJJ) was like walking into a whole new world. We got to check out all sorts of places in Israel, and it wasn't just sightseeing – we were connecting with different communities, traditions, and bits of our Jewish heritage I never knew about before.

Every day felt like a new discovery about myself and where I come from. If you ask me, TJJ is way more than a summer trip –it's a deep-dive into your roots, and it's pretty awesome " ou.org/onesummer for all

SavingLives

Hatzalah Rescue is a co-ed travel program for teens offering training in CPR, hemorrhage control. On Hatzalah Rescue teens get certified as EMR’s, volunteer on an ambulance and assist in the Hatzalah logistics center.

HoningBasketballSkills

Jumpshot Israel is the premier Israel-based overnight basketball camp for high school boys with a focus on cultivating excellence in basketball skills and instilling an understanding of and personal connection to Torah & Israel through athletics, simultaneously facilitating personal growth and leadership skills.

"Joining the LEAD summer program was truly life-changing I found myself growing each day, not just through our daily activities, but mostly by spending time with the wonderful kids at the orphanage.

We learned, we laughed, and we explored Afula together. It wasn't just about having a fun summer; it was about making a real difference. It's an experience that's now a part of who I am, and I couldn't recommend it enough for anyone looking to have a meaningful summer "

OU One Summer Data

GRADES 5 THROUGH HIGH SCHOOL

TOTAL CAMPERS 2023

2,600

Growth

Gender

70%FEMALE I 30%MALE

Locations

From Spectator to Participant: Yael's Transformation Through NCSY's GIVE Program

Background

Yael, a 16-year-old high school student, came from a financially constrained family. The inability to afford the NCSY's GIVE summer program throughout her high school years had placed a burden of isolation and embarrassment on her. This feeling of exclusion impacted her self-image and participation in the school and Jewish community.

Over a decade ago, Rivky Potestio and her family began their extraordinary journey from being deeply involved in a small Spanish-speaking church, where her father served as pastor, toward conversion to Orthodox Judaism. But for Rivky, the transition was socially and academically difficult. “None of my new classmates had ever encountered anyone with my kind of background, and I don’t think they knew how to relate,” she explains

Yael's struggle didn't go unnoticed. Yael's school's guidance counselor, recognizing the significance of Yael's situation, coordinated with her family, the local Jewish community, and the OU's scholarship committee. Together, they managed to secure the necessary funding for Yael to participate in the GIVE program in Israel.

In tenth grade, Rivky attended NCSY's Latte 'n Learn classes, which she enjoyed. “Soon enough, I was attending Shabbatons and Regionals. From NCSY, I got this feeling that, for the first time in a long time, I belonged.”

The Experience

NCSY became a safe place in which Rivky could grow and thrive in her Judaism without the pressure. “NCSY not only helped me become more comfortable with myself, but now I’m confident and proud to tell people I’m Jewish,” Rivky says.

The GIVE program turned out to be a life-altering experience for Yael. Engaging in community service and exploring historical landmarks in Israel, she was no longer a spectator but an active participant. The program helped her connect with her Jewish heritage more deeply and boosted her confidence through hands-on community contributions.

Before her junior year, Rivky was invited to join the board and coordinated chessed projects for NCSYers

Life Post-Program

When Yael returned to school after the summer, she was noticeably more self-assured. She was able to share her experiences from Israel. But the GIVE program had ignited something else within her - a strong desire to give back to her community.

The following year, Rivky went on NCSY’s GIVE program, which immerses teen girls in volunteer experiences that give back to the people and land of Israel. “Participating on GIVE helped grow my appreciation for Judaism and NCSY, and it cemented my decision to apply for president of the board for my senior year,” said Rivky. It’s a position she won handily and at which she excelled.

During her senior year, Yael started a fundraising campaign aimed at helping other students like her afford the GIVE program ensuring that other students wouldn't face the same barriers she once did.

“Being involved in NCSY and being Jewish showed me that I have a greater purpose in life,” declared Rivky. “Whereas I once looked at Judaism as burdensome, I now think of it as a privilege to be a part of something so big. And that’s thanks to NCSY.”

Yael's journey underscores the significant impact that programs like OU's GIVE can have on a young person's life when financial barriers are removed. From feeling alienated to becoming an integral part of her community, Yael's story emphasizes the need to ensure their accessibility for all students.

A family affair: Brothers Joshua, Gabriel, and Judah experiencing Israel on Yad B’Yad together.

Individuals With Disabilities

Aaron and Sarah Trauring have three wonderful sons, who have been part of the Yachad family for more than five years

It all started in the summer of 2017, when Joshua, now 21, attended Yad B’Yad as a high school participant Joshua’s younger brother Judah began attending the Marilyn and Sheldon David IVDU High School after that summer.

In back-to-back summers of 2018 and 2019, Joshua and Judah attended Camp Morasha Yachad, Joshua as a fellow and then counselor, and Judah as a camper In the summer of 2021, Judah’s twin brother, Gabriel, joined in on the action and the three brothers attended Yad B’Yad together, Joshua as a counselor and Judah and Gabriel as participants, marking the first time where three brothers were together.

Judah is still thriving at IVDU and went back to Yad B’Yad this past summer to relive the experience, and to help teach the meaning of belonging to those attending for the first time.

1,600 Participants

25 Programs

Summer programs for people with disabilities are all managed and operated by Yachad, an OU program which works to instill a sense of belonging within Am Yisrael, celebrating the unique value of every Jew.

Through inclusive summer programs, Yachad not only accommodates the needs of the disabled community, but also facilitates understanding, acceptance, and more opportunities. By including families in these programs, it underscores a commitment to supporting the families in this population.

Camp Within Camp

Integrated within various sleepaway camps, Yachad campers enjoy a separate Yachad bunk with its own structure and support system, joining their mainstream peers for many daily activities.

Dear Yachad Team,

I can't thank you enough for the respite your Family Getaway program gave us. The serene location, great facilities, and thoughtful staff provided a much-needed break. This vacation wasn't just enjoyable but truly tailored to our family's unique needs, allowing us all to unwind and rejuvenate We can't wait for our next trip with you

Friendship for Life

Yad B'Yad creates an environment where everyone belongs and feels a part of something greater. The unity within the group is palpable and lifelong relationships are cultivated. From participants to staff, over 100 individuals become one family.

Warmly, Ellen

Vocational Summer

The Yachad Vocational Program offers participants the opportunity to join a mainstream camp as a specialty staff member. Fun camp activities balance their day, along with opportunities to build relationships with peers.id ent it y

BirthRight Israel

Through its dedicated and experienced staff and tour guides, great activities, and stateof-the-art specialized bus, the trip is designed for participants to have a comfortable and incredible journey.

"Thank you so much for the opportunity you've given my child through the Yachad Vocational Program. The experience of joining a mainstream camp as a specialty staff member has been incredibly enriching for them.

They've not only enjoyed fun camp activities but also learned valuable skills and built wonderful friendships along the way and gave him a priceless sense of belonging. We're deeply grateful for your commitment to inclusivity and growth."

Jacob - Parent

I just wanted to express how grateful I am for the chance to be part of Yad B'Yad this summer. Working with such a diverse group and making a real difference was truly a lifealtering experience

I learned so much about empathy, understanding, and the power of community. This program has genuinely touched my heart and changed the way I see the world. Thank you for this incredible opportunity!

Josh - NCSY Teen Participant