SJCC: At SJCC Summer Camps we are busy getting everything organized so that when campers arrive on Day 1, we can hit the ground running. We are loading up on new supplies for arts & crafts, outdoor games, and more. We will be transforming all the rooms at the SJCC, including Ganon Preschool, into camp-friendly spaces and arranging campers in swim groups according to their level since we are bringing back swim lessons for the first time since the pandemic. Our staff will be getting together for training, bonding, and getting creative with plans for their groups. Parents can log into a Zoom call with our camp directors to learn what they can expect from SJCC Summer Camps. 

CGI: Camp Gan Israel of Ottawa is a summer camp dedicated to enriching the lives of children from diverse Jewish backgrounds and affiliations through a stimulating camping experience. We are part of the largest and fastest growing network of day camps, enjoying a reputation as a pioneer in Jewish camping, with innovative ideas and creative activities, to provide both enjoyment and inspiration to children along with encouragement to try new things. There is a tremendous amount of creativity and hard work that goes into planning a summer of fun.

We have 10 counselors coming to Ottawa this summer from all over North America.  These are high school kids who want to give campers a fabulous time at camp and a good feeling about being Jewish.

EB: What is the most exciting part of welcoming kids to camp?
CBB: There is nothing better than seeing those full busses pull into camp and watch the smiling campers pour of out them. There is so much excitement in the air as the kids reunite with their camp friends and run to hug their favourite staff members. All our staff is there and ready to greet and high-five all the kids whether it’s their first or fifth summer. The camp is filled with love and ruach (spirit) and it’s what drives us!

SJCC: Summer is a special time when our building is alive and buzzing with happy smiling kids, singing and cheering throughout the day. It is great to see so many familiar faces summer after summer. That tells us that we are doing something right! Ottawa families know that their kids will have a positive experience at the SJCC Summer Camps and for many, it’s a familiar and comfortable place where kids feel welcome and at home. It is so rewarding to see a new camper, who might not know anyone or ever attended a program at the SJCC, come out of their shell, make new friends, and thrive over the summer.

CGI: On a personal note, I think one parent summed up Camp Gan Izzy of Ottawa in a few words, "This camp is the only place in Ottawa where Jewish children, from every different background imaginable, religious, not religious, reform, Orthodox, non-affiliated, etc. can spend a summer together having fun, without any hang-ups about being friends." Helping each camper find their love of Judaism is what makes camp exciting every summer.