Jewish Values
We welcome everyone into the Camp Ruach family!
RUACH, Spirit in Hebrew, is what we aim to bring to camp each day
Jewish values are at the heart of everything we do, thoughtfully woven into our daily activities and special programs. These Jewish values-universal and humane-guide us in fostering a welcoming and inclusive camp environment. We intentionally integrate Jewish culture and a connection to Israel throughout the camp experience. Our special traditions, such as celebrating Shabbat, Israel Day, Jewish Value Tuesday, Thankful Thursday, participating in mitzvot (good deeds), along with hebrew signage, help bring these values to life in meaningful and memorable ways.
Integrating Jewish Values
HAKHNASAT ORHIM
Welcoming ALL with Friendship
הַכְנָסַת אוֹרְחִים
TIKKUN OLAM
Improving the World
תיקון עולם
KAVOD
Respect For One Another
כבוד
SHALOM BAYIT
Peace in Our Community
שַׁבַּת שָׁלוֹם
GEMILUT HASADIM
Kindness and Compassion
גְּמִילוּת חֲסָדִים
TZEDAKAH
Justice and Charity
צְדָקָה
Program Spotlights:
Jewish Value Tuesday
Each week has a special Jewish value which is introduced during Boker Tov, our morning gathering. explored throughout camp. Such values include that of friendship, caring for the environment, community, and more!
Thankful Thursday
We have so much to be thankful and appreciative for and we love sharing that gratitude with each other and the community. Every week we create a Thankful Thursday video where campers and staff share what they are most thankful for - it always is a beautiful reminder of the privileges and joy we have been afforded.
Shabbat
Every Friday morning the entire camp gathers in the amphitheater for a camp wide Shabbat Celebration to culminate the end of an exciting week. Shabbat, the Jewish Sabbath and day of rest, is celebrated through song, eating of Challah (braided egg bread), and exploration of tradition. Campers love singing and dancing to special Shabbat and Israeli songs - it is truly the highlight of the week for all!
Shlichim & Israel
We are fortunate to have multiple shlichim, Israeli emissaries, join our camp staff team each summer. They bring their love of Israel, Israeli culture and history, and modern day traditions to the campers, staff, and extended community. We celebrate Israel in many different ways! During Boker Tov where campers learn a Hebrew word of the week, at the camp-wide Challah-Bake, with song and dance, and during Israel Week.