After 3 action-packed weeks in the scenic mountains of Pennsylvania, immersed in experiential Jewish learning and bursting with renewed Jewish pride, it was time for the last “calling day” of the summer. With less than a week left to camp, every camper took their turn to excitedly share with their parents the fun they were having and their excitement for the grand trip to NYC scheduled for the end of the week.
As the camp office was buzzing with the excitement of calling day, the camp director, Gershon Sandler received a text message from Sharon T. “What time do I get Sammy Monday? Do you know how meaningful it is to have your 12 year old, public school educated child, call you and tell you they are so excited because they are going to go to Crown Heights and will get a siddur with their name on it? Brings me to tears!”
Over the past 10 years, CGI Poconos has partnered with hundreds of shluchim to inspire over 500 Jewish public-school girls like Sammy from around the world.
Now entering its 11th summer season, CGI Poconos is experiencing exponential growth in enrollment, with over 50% more campers than last year. “Coming off of two years of a pandemic, families are once again considering overnight camp for their children,” says Gershon Sandler, Founder & Director of CGI Poconos. “Many shluchim are using the opportunity to encourage their community members to attend Jewish overnight camp for the first time”.
Gearing up for the biggest summer yet, CGI Poconos is in the midst of many large-scale renovations and upgrades to its already beautiful campgrounds. From brand new beds and mattresses to building state-of-the-art staff accommodations, campers and staff will be able to enjoy the 83-acre campground like never before.
“We are proud to be able to partner with the Shluchim, helping them bring the overnight camp experience to the children in their communities,” said Rabbi Moshe Browd, Director of Growth. “Since joining CGI Poconos, I’ve witnessed firsthand the unparalleled effect overnight camp has had on the children who attend”.
Last week, CGI Poconos successfully completed a $120,000 Scholarship Campaign for families needing financial assistance to attend camp, with hundreds of generous donors stepping up to help make the Rebbe’s dream a reality for every Jewish girl.
With over 50% more campers than last year, camper registration will close on Rosh Chodesh Sivan – May 31st. Shluchim looking to share this opportunity with girls in their community are encouraged to do so as soon as possible. The camp dates are June 28 to July 25. For more information, visit CGIPoconos.org.
Due to record enrollment, the camp is still accepting additional staff members. Interested girls in 12th Grade or Sem Alef may apply for counselor positions, and girls in Sem Beis or older may apply for head staff positions by clicking here.
We’re excited to send one of our Hebrew school students!!