Episode 15: How to make Two Months Last a Lifetime: The Secret Power of Summer Camp

What really makes sleepaway camp so magical, and who’s working behind the scenes to keep it all running? In this episode, Alana sits down with Sean Steinmetz and Ilana Rosenzweig, director and assistant director of Camp Lavi, for an honest, funny, and inspiring conversation about the joy and responsibility of leading camp. They talk about what it means to create a culture of care, how they support homesick campers (and anxious parents!), why professional development is important for staff throughout the summer, and the generational impact of Jewish camp. If you've ever wondered how a 60-day experience leaves a lifelong imprint or just want a peek into the minds and heart of camp leadership, this episode is for you.

Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action, by Simon Sinek

For Simon Sinek's TED Talk, "Start with why: how great leaders inspire action" click here. Healing for Camp Mystic is a GoFundMe campaign started by “Aunt Grace” in Dallas to provide long-term professional therapy for campers and families affected by the catastrophic July 4 flood at Camp Mystic. All funds raised support trauma-informed counseling for children and adults navigating grief and shock following the tragedy.  As of this update, nearly $480,000 has been donated; 100% of which goes directly toward healing and emotional recovery.  Click here to donate. Kerr County Flood Relief Fund: The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country has started a fund to provide aid to vetted organizations providing rescue, relief and recovery operations as well as flood assistance, according to the foundation. Donations are being accepted on its website. Chabad of Boerne, located near the flood-affected area in Central Texas, has become a central hub for distributing food, clothing, hygiene items, and essential supplies like chainsaws and refrigerators to survivors and first responders. They’re also offering emotional and spiritual support to impacted families. Donations go directly toward sustaining these relief efforts.
Donate here.