There is nothing better than being part of a community that deeply understands the essential role Jewish camping plays in the lives of our kids and young adults. And, in my role, I am constantly reminded how committed our stakeholders are to removing barriers to these transformational experiences.
We are living through challenging times for our people. Now more than ever, living Jewishly in safe, joy-filled spaces is not just important — it’s essential. That’s why Tamarack’s mission matters.
While the magic of Tamarack is most visible when camp is in session, the work behind the scenes never stops. Our board of directors and lay leaders partner with our exceptional professional team all year long to ensure our camp stays true to its values and is equipped with the resources to thrive, especially at a time when we’ve seen an increased demand for scholarships.
I’m proud to share that – for the first time in Tamarack’s storied history — last week’s Send a Kid to Tamarack (SK2T) event raised more than one million dollars to support scholarships and camp’s greatest needs. We are humbled and grateful that our community has answered the call during this critical time. Because of you, we remain steadfast in our mission.
Last night, our board gathered for its final meeting before the summer begins. We celebrated the more than 1,400 campers and staff who will soon be immersed in transformative experiences, building friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. We concluded the evening with a powerful and moving moment: our board formed a circle around our professional team as Rabbi Aaron Starr, a fellow board member, offered heartfelt blessings for a safe, meaningful, and inspiring summer. Other board members followed with their own blessings. The words resonated deeply, filling the room — and our souls — with purpose and pride.
Finally, I’m also excited to announce that, for the first time since 2019, our Annual Meeting will return to Camp Maas. Please join us on Sunday, July 27 at 4 p.m. as we spotlight camp in action, install our new board and officers, and honor the recipient of this year’s President’s Award. We’ll gather at the newly dedicated HuG, which promises a spectacular setting for this special occasion. More details will be shared soon.
As we look ahead to the summer and all it promises, I am filled with immense gratitude—for our devoted community, our passionate team, and the shared belief that Jewish camping changes lives. Tamarack is more than a camp; it is a home, a sanctuary, and a source of strength for so many. In times of uncertainty, we find comfort in our collective commitment to nurturing the next generation with joy, resilience, and connection. Thank you for standing with us, for believing in our mission, and for ensuring that the spirit of Tamarack continues to shine brightly. We truly are better together.
