Camp JCC Story: A Place for Every Child

Cheryl* was concerned about her son, Avi*.  He had always struggled with social skills, regulating his emotions, and coping with change.  This made it difficult for him to make friends or participate in groups.  Cheryl wanted her family to be involved with the Jewish community, but Avi had sensory issues left him unable to enjoy most “family friendly” events.

When Cheryl asked her rabbi for advice, she was surprised by the answer—sign Avi up for Camp JCC.  At first, she assumed that it wouldn’t be a good fit.  After finding out that camp has an inclusion program for children with different needs, she decided it was worth a try.

Avi went on to have an amazing summer.  He especially loved swimming in the pool—a skill that he first learned at Camp JCC.  Camp also provided a safe place for Avi to practice his social skills with other kids.  He went on to make friends with children from his synagogue, whom he had known before but finally connected with at camp.  Cheryl still remembers the day that Avi came home from camp and announced “I made a friend!”

Cheryl credits Camp JCC’s inclusion program with helping Avi to enjoy camp fully.  “[Camp JCC staff] can support him without him feeling different, and it feels natural,” Cheryl said. 

Cheryl is grateful for keeping Avi happy and safe during the week, especially as she and her husband were both working full-time during the pandemic.  Even during uncertain times, Camp JCC has remained a steady presence in their lives. “Being able to have him in a place where he is having fun, and in a place where I know he’s physically and emotionally safe, is a real relief,” she said.  “Camp can accommodate your kids, even if you think it can’t.”

For more information on how you can support Camp JCC through the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign, CLICK HERE.

*Not their real names