Summer time. No classrooms. No homework. No bells. Just the blissful summer sunshine beating down.
Jewish summer camp counselors hot, long days are spent enriching the lives of campers through Jewish-rooted programs that will make a lasting mark.
Rocky Altman, a 13-year attendee of Shwayder Camp, and in her fourth year as a staff member, started attending because her older sister went to camp. The friendships she formed at age seven have stuck like glue as she is now co-counselor with a friend she made as a first-year camper.
This summer, I am in charge of the youngest campers. When I look at mine and their friendships, I see similarities. When they say good-bye to each other, they talk about being counselors together, says Altman. The kids arrive as individuals but leave together as a unit.
Jessica Laskowitz, JCC Ranch Camp sports specialist, started at Ranch Camp six years ago, in eighth grade. Like many kids, who dont like change and dont want to step out of their comfort zone, Laskowitz had the mind set of hating camp but my grandparents knew I would love it.
After that summer, she was hooked and wanted to go back. As a camper, Laskowitz idolized her counselors and never thought they had any problems. They were my super heroes.
Now, as a counselor, she tries to emulate the people that inspired her, placing the focus on the kids and making them happy, even if she has to fake her own happiness at times, so the campers will see the activities as a fun time.
After all, being a camp counselor is a job so it is hard to stay positive at times, reveals Altman.
Jordan Andersen, current Ramah in the Rockies counselor, started attending summer camp at JCC Ranch Camp over 12 years ago. In 2010, Andersen switched to Ramah.
The rest of this article is available in the IJN’s print edition only. Contact Carol to order your copy at (303) 861-2234 or email [email protected].
