he secret of Camp Gan Israel's success lies in combining summer fun with pride of being Jewish," says Camp Co-director Devorah Caytak. "We give our young charges the absolute best of both.
"The results are extraordinary," she beams. "Parents tell us that the day camp comes to an end, their children start a day-by-day, month-by-month countdown to the next camping season!"
As part of the largest network of world-wide Jewish Day Camps, Ottawa's Camp Gan Israel has access to a regularly updated storehouse of innovative ideas and creative programs geared for preschoolers to 12 year olds.
Thirteen-year old Robyn Goldberg spent four happy summers at Camp Moschiach which recently merged with Camp Gan Israel. "The people there were just wonderful," she says. "They helped me with my Jewish identity and because of it, I emerged as top student in my Hebrew school class."
Sharon Katz, mother of another Moschiach camper is very pleased with her daughter's experience. "The camp filled in a lot of the pieces in terms of her Jewish learning," says Ms. Katz. "And she learned in a joyful way."
Camp Gan Israel blends Jewish lifestyle with sports, field trips and camp activities. "The children share in a rich, fulfilling and meaningful summer vacation which fosters memories that last a lifetime," Mrs. Caytak says.
The boys program takes place at Maimonides School. The facility includes a modern, well-equipped gymnasium, sprawling grounds with two baseball diamonds and a safe playground for younger children. Swimming is taught at a nearby pool.
The girls program takes place at the Jewish Youth Library, 192 Switzer Avenue, a cosy environment boasting an art room, well-equipped library, spacious outdoor grounds and inground pool.
"Another secret of our success is our staff," says Mrs. Caytak. "We hand-pick our counsellors for their personal warmth and ability to care for each child as an individual."
Counsellor Chaya Gross, 16, has really enjoyed her group this summer. "Camp Gan Israel is really great," she says. "The program has just the right balance of camp activities and Jewish feeling."
Safety is paramount in water activities, which are supervised by certified Red Cross instructors. Swimming course range from basic to advanced. On completion, campers are awarded certificates recognizing their skill level.
Experienced instructors supervise the sports program, which focuses on individual skills while teaching teamwork and sportsmanship. The program includes martial arts, soccer, baseball, basketball. floor hockey, kickball and more.
Talented arts and crafts counsellors instruct the children in an exciting array of projects, many incorporating Jewish themes. The program nurtures creative expression and encourages the children to discover their distinctive talents.
During the camp season, special events are scheduled for the entire family. Weekly events calendars and a camp newspaper keep families up-to-date with their children's activities.
Camp Gan Israel operates weekdays; this year from July 4-August 4. Cost is $675 for the five week session or $135 per week. For information about next year, call 729-7712.