The Camp/Retreat Learning Model

The Camp/Retreat Model provides learners with intense, immersive Jewish learning environments. Emphasis is placed on experiential learning that strives to build rich, meaningful community as it deepens Jewish knowledge and understanding. Learners may come together for a weekend or a week or even two weeks at various points throughout the year. These experiences are often supplemented by monthly family learning or other activities in order to maintain community connections and provide ongoing opportunities for learning. By concentrating learning in a weekend, week or two weeks, this model seeks to replicate the best of a camp setting combined with the rich Judaic resources a congregation can offer its learners. In a Camp Model, congregations use the language, structure and design of camp learning during the year. For example, instead of children going to class, they go to a bunk with a counselor. Another variation on this model is known as “Camp Connect.” In these versions of a camp model, communities create a 12 month curriculum with identified camps. A strong link is made between the summer camp and the fall through spring experience by connecting staff and learning content and methods throughout the year.

Camp/Retreat Models/Adaptations In Action (click on each for full description):

• Adventures in Jewish Education, University Synagogue; Irvine, CA
• Chavaya, Temple Israel New Rochelle; New Rochelle, NY
• Village Temple Kesher Mini-Camp, Village Temple; New York, NY
• WHC Mobile, Washington Hebrew Congregation; Washington, D.C.
• Nisayon, Temple Judea; Tarzana, CA
• Yedidim, Temple Beth Sholom; Roslyn, NY