Union, NJ–The YM-YWHA of Union County is expecting summer 2015 to be its best ever! With close to 500 campers expected, and over 150 already pre-registered, it promises to be a record-breaking season. The camp has many different divisions, among the most popular being Camp Ahava (ages 2?–4?), Camp Chaverim (for yeshiva children, grades P–9) and Kinneret Hadasha (an Israeli-infused program, grades K–9).
The “Y” Camps are located amidst 50 wooded acres, and boast an air-conditioned indoor facility, shaded camping areas, a double-size gymnasium, three outdoor sports fields, ga-ga ball and tetherball courts, an indoor Olympic swimming pool, and an outdoor private pool. The state-licensed camp has a full-time EMT and a staff-to-camper ratio well above the recommended standards.
Camp Ahava is a first camp experience for the youngest campers. It offers a Jewish early childhood experience that incorporates swim, sports, music, nature, cooking, drama, and trips into its daily schedule. Chaverim is geared toward yeshiva students. With a Chinuch program, daily davening raffles, benching contests, erev Shabbos Oneg and Tisch, this camp offers a summer like no other in a safe Torah environment. Campers in 5th and 6th grades (Eilat Explorers) travel twice weekly, and the 7th–9th graders (Tiyulim) travel thrice weekly, with one day a week “on campus,” and one day a week divided into a chesed trip and a counselor training program.
Kinneret Hadasha is making its debut this summer. Staffed by many Israeli counselors and specialists, there is a strong focus on Israeli “ruach” and culture. This division is appropriate for day-school students, Modern Orthodox families, and Israeli campers.
To learn more about the camp, visit its website at www.unionycamps.org, or attend one of the OPEN HOUSE & INFO SESSIONS to be held Tuesday night, January 13 at 7 p.m., Thursday night, Feb. 12 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 15th at 2 p.m. There will also be camp information available at the “Early Bird Purim Carnival,” to be held at the Y on Sunday, Feb. 22 from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information or to arrange a tour at your convenience, please call the Y at 908-289-8112.
By Jani Jonas
