Union—Camp Chaverim, once again under the direction of Rabbi Yisroel Rich and assisted by Dena Lichtman (Girls Division) and Rabbi Natan Kapustin, is gearing up for an exciting summer. Beginning on Thursday, June 25th and continuing for eight weeks, through Tuesday, August 18th, there are camp divisions for ages primer up through 9th grade (younger campers can join the Camp Ahava Program). Boasting seven “specialty” periods a day, activities include twice a day swims (indoor Olympic pool and private outdoor pool), and various sports including gaga, basketball, tetherball. hockey, and softball. The camp has a full double indoor gymnasium and soccer courts. Girls enjoy zumba and yoga, and boys can participate in Krav Maga.

Other activities include crafts, drama, cooking, music, and Jewish learning. A very important component of the summer is trips. Younger children will go on five trips including Blackbeards Cave, Rye Playland, and separate boys and girls waterparks. Fifth & sixth graders travel at least twice a week to amusement parks, sports events, cruises, museums, and other places of interest. The Tiyulim Group (Grades 7-9) has a very specific schedule: three days traveling (including ropes courses, Ripleys, Coney Island, and Chelsea Piers) and one day a week “on campus” (Tuesdays), with every Friday a chesed trip and training to become a future counselor.

There are four or eight week sessions, Y Family membership is required for all campers. Lunch is included daily with a varied and creative menu, including a weekly BBQ. The camp usually fills up to capacity by early June. There is a waiting list available.

For more information or to access the website at www.unionycamps.org. The Camp is located at the YM-YWHA of Union, 501 Green lane, Union, NJ. Telephone number is 908-289-8112.