A Big “Beruchim Abaim” (Welcome) to our Israeli Staff!

Every summer, our staff come from all over the Greater Philadelphia area to work at Camp Kef. These amazing individuals dedicate their summer to our campers, ensuring it’s one full of learning new skills, bonding with friends, and fostering confidence that will last a lifetime. This summer, we’d like to introduce some people that came from a little farther away: Israel.

This summer we are so thrilled to have our largest delegation ever of Israeli staff members! Dan and Noya, who have been in the Greater Philly area for the past year, and Amit and Liya, who just touched down in Pennsylvania on June 12th. Having these staff members on our team gives our campers a unique opportunity to learn more about Israeli culture. Our staff members get to share about what’s important to them, leading to an awesome and unique cultural exchange. 

Dan and Noya are ShinShinim, here on a gap year before doing their service in the IDF. Before camp, they’ve been going in and out of synagogues and schools in the area doing hands-on Israel education. Here at Camp Kef, Dan will be running Meshuga, games that focus on getting our campers moving and letting them be silly, and Noya will be running Balagan, messy art, a long-time favorite of our campers. Together, the two will run Israeli culture, where campers will explore Israeli music, sports, food and more. 

Our Shlichim, Liya and Amit, have completed their service in the IDF, and are joining us for the summer. Campers will get to be creative at arts and crafts with Liya, and explore their theatrical side at improv with Amit. 

“Our goal is to help kids discover the fun and colorful side of Israel and spark curiosity to keep learning long after camp ends," said Dan.  

“We’re so excited for camp and to meet the kids,” added Noya, “We can’t wait to connect with them, and create fun meaningful moments together.”

All four staff members are living with host families, members of our JCC community who have opened their homes for our Israelis. 

“We love being a host to the amazing shlicha,” said Maytal Rothschild, a member of one of our host families. “She has become part of our family in such a short time. She brings warmth and that Israeli vibe to our daily life and we love it!”

We could not be more excited to welcome these staff members from abroad into our community. Each year at Camp Kef our staff goes above and beyond to ensure that camp happens in a safe, educational, and fun manner. Stay tuned to our blog to see what exciting things will be happening this summer!