Winter 2024
WORDS FROM THE WISE
Holding Hands, Making Space By Rabbi Dan Utley, Director Summer will be here before we know it! We are thrilled to welcome over 600 campers from across North America and more than 140 exceptional staff members, including many former Camp Wise campers, staff from Israel, and Jews from communities worldwide. The Home of Happiness is poised to offer a joyous and awesome experience as always – even while this summer, our community holds many feelings about this most difficult year in Israel. Throughout this winter, in meetings with fellow camp professionals or discussions with Camp Wise parents, staff members and campers, I have reflected on the ways the war may impact our camp. While our unwavering commitment to safety and security remains the top priority at Camp Wise and the Mandel JCC, I am equally aware of the need for thoughtfulness this summer to reinforce the inclusive community we hold dear – one where campers and staff members feel emotionally safe and respected, and where we continue to foster ahavat yisrael, a love for Israel and her people. Camp Wise carries an inspiring legacy from its 117 summers. The Home of Happiness has endured through times of unimaginable war, navigating waves of antisemitism, racism, political strife and national unrest that have affected the American Jewish community. We
can draw strength and wisdom from this tradition, which teaches that the magic and meaning of camp must prevail as a reminder that a vibrant Jewish life is our best response to dark times.
WHAT’S NEW FOR SUMMER ’24
In Summer 2024, we will celebrate Shabbat through dance, song and our beloved “pop waves,” and we will fervently pray for peace for Israel and for all people. On Yom Yisrael, we will wake up to the blaring of Israeli rock music, end the day standing tall for Hatikvah and we will create safe spaces for dialogue, discussion and learning. On the first night, we will build our cabin contracts with the usual blend of seriousness and humor and accompany it with extra guidance on expressing our opinions and beliefs when we might disagree.
• Hebrew-speaking camper care team members to better support Israeli campers and staff
The Home of Happiness stands strong because we stand strong with one another in relationship – holding hands and growing close, while also making space to learn and listen to each other, and still speak our truth.
• New lake toy, voted on by campers
• Revamped Noar and Solel trips, including trips to amusement parks • New pavilion, hardscape, cooking fire pit and facilities for Teva (nature) programming. The Stanley I. and Hope S. Adelstein Fund has generously supported this project. • Security upgrades including our new Welcome Center
Look out for more updates in the next Red Wagon!
camp wise news | winter 2024
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