This summer, we were thrilled to welcome 127 Israeli campers to Tamarack Camps across two sessions, as part of the Elaine and Michael Serling Israeli Camper Program – one of the largest programs of its kind in North America – now in its 24th year! To date, more than 2,200 Israeli campers and 500 host families have now shared summers and memories together as a part of this incredible program!
As part of the program, campers spend an entire session at Tamarack followed by a weekend in a generous host family’s home. There they enjoy Shabbat dinner, swimming, bonfires, shopping, sightseeing and bonding with a local Detroit area family… and these relationships often grow into lifelong friendships.
Lior Zisser-Yogev, our outgoing Detroit Shlicha, had the privilege of heading the ICP delegation to Tamarack — the very same program she participated in as a camper herself — and this, after years of turbulence in the Middle East led to a hiatus in the program.
The first cohort of 69 campers arrived June 15th — including ICP campers integrated across camp villages, a group from Kibbutz Gevim in the Gaza Envelope, and 19 Teen Leadership Village (TLV) participants who are serving as junior counselors and mentors in various villages and activities throughout camp.
A second cohort of 58 campers joined us for Session 2, beginning July 13th, including 20 additional TLV participants. As one walks through camp, you’d can hear Hebrew echoing all around — from Berman and Hermelin to senior-side villages; and all the way to our TLV participants helping and working throughout camp.
ICP participant Nadav, who stayed in Ruach village says it was the best time he could imagine, and he urges others to follow suit! Reflecting on his camp and host family experiences, he said “it was amazing” with a beaming smile. Camper Ella seconded Nadav’s words, adding that she “got connected with all the Americans and the Israelis… It was so sad when I left. I already miss them so much.”
For our Israeli campers, this program means fun times, warm community, and the healing power of an unforgettable summer at Tamarack and in the Detroit community! The Jewish Federation of Detroit is honored to facilitate this incredible program, and eternally grateful for the support of the community that makes it possible.
