This year’s Camp Gan Yisroel UK (CGI UK), wrapped up its most successful summer, attracting a large number of campers from all over the world.
Directed by Rabbi Shmuli Brown and Menahel Ruchni Rabbi Folly Dubov, over 130 boys and staff enjoyed a fun-packed summer of learning and thrilling activities in a Chassidisher fun and lively atmosphere. It took place in a picturesque location, surrounded by Shrewsbury’s natural beauty.
Campers came from across the UK, Europe and the U.S. all eager to experience the Chassidisher atmosphere, individual care and action-packed schedule that CGI UK has become known for. The camp’s staff, led by the remarkable Head Counselors Mendel Zaltzman and Mendel Zavdi, program director Yisroel Schapiro along with Masmidim Division Head Counselors Zevi Barnett and Yanki Kahan, ensured a summer full of both spiritual and physical excitement. From day one, the boys were immersed in Torah learning and thrilling adventures.
The camp’s rich array of activities kept everyone energised and excited. From exhilarating trips to a theme park to high ropes climbing, aqua park, go karting, water sports, midnight runaways, sports, bbq, camp bonfires and the much-anticipated colour war, there was no shortage of fun.
The Chayus in davening and bentching, the entire camp singing in unison with hands around each other’s shoulders by the Shabbos meals and all the beautiful stories, were amazing.
Chassidisher growth was a key part of the camp experience, with the boys taking on hachlotas and memorizing large portions of Mishnayus, Tanya, Maamorim and learning Pirush Hamilos. For the Masmidim division, a special mivtza rewarded the boys with a raffle to win a trip to spend Tishrei by the Rebbe. A large group of campers are planning to attend CGI UK’s annual ‘Tishrei by the Rebbe’ program bez’H being run by our devoted Masmidim staff member, Shlomo Stern together with the head staff.
Special guest Rabbi Mendel Gordon, Mashpia at London Yeshiva, joined the camp for Shabbos Mevorchim, offering inspirational shiurim to prepare the boys for Chodesh Elul and the Yomim No’roim.
The dedicated kitchen team, led by Rabbi Yechiel Wilhelm and his wife Sara, ensured the boys were well-fed with gourmet meals, while Tzivia Brown and the General Managers, Sholom Ber Weinbaum, Leibel Simon, and Yosef Gorman, provided essential support to make the summer run smoothly.
Although the camp ended with emotional farewells, including the traditional singing of “Goodbye Gan Yisroel,” CGI UK’s connection with the boys continues throughout the year with programs designed to keep them inspired and engaged until next summer.
Parents shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, noting the profound impact the camp had on their children, setting the stage for another eagerly anticipated summer next year.
