Girls’ Memorable Winter Break

By a participant

Winter Camp… Where to start?

I guess the most appropriate person to begin with, is the woman who makes the whole thing happen: The one and only Mrs. Yehudis Ives.

I don’t think any of us realize just how much Mrs. Ives has done for the girls of Bnos Chabad, and the community here in London. In fact, the entire Bnos Chabad is on her shoulders.

For years, starting perhaps before I myself was even born, she organizes and runs a camp (besides the many other things she’s involved in) quite unlike any other.

And we girls return to Winter Camp year after year, well that is, most of us do anyway. The program, the discussions, the singing, the dancing and the united atmosphere on the whole is something that touches every single one of us girls, that no one wants to miss out on.

And it only gets better from year to year.

Mrs. Ives, these two words aren’t enough but I’ll say them anyway: Thank you. I want you to know that we appreciate so much everything you’ve done for us all.

I found that besides for Mrs. Ives and her husband (who is always there to support his wife), there have been other people who have made a major impact on the girls who attended camp this year. Namely, the camp Rabbi and Rebbetzin.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but in my opinion, it is not a regular occurrence that at a Friday night camp farbrengen, roughly three quarters of a camp, if not more, ranging from ages 11 to 17, are attracted to stay for an entire farbrengen.

And we all had good reason for it! Topics were brought up and discussed openly and deeply, and many girls felt comfortable to ask whichever questions they had. The room was warm, good food was around and the Rabbi open-minded, knowledgeable and sincere… What more do you need for a good farbrengen? And the sense of achdus in the room… There was one point when everyone was answering each other questions.

And the next day too, another mini-Farbrengen was held where this time, extremely delicate subjects were brought up, and were yet discussed and dealt with so expertly and clearly with the Rabbi and his wife. Many, many of us girls left feeling incredibly inspired.

Rabbi and Mrs. Dubov, I don’t know if you’re aware of just how many girls’ lives you’ve touched this Shabbos. Those discussions had a major positive effect on so many of us girls – the various topics including music, ‘contacts’ and hachlotas… So many changes, big and small, yet each so important in its own way. Some girls’ lives have been changed forever because of this Shabbos, and believe me when I say I’m not exaggerating.

Then there’s Shterny. I don’t know all the details of just what and how much you did, but what I do know is that it was definitely a lot. And throughout it all, Shterny was known for her ability to stay calm, collected and so very organized. She knew exactly what was going on, and was always so approachable if anyone had any questions. We all love you, Shterny.

And next comes the two head counselors: Bluma and Hadassa! The two of you always had everything under control, and that’s not easy! It was very often you two who made things so fun and interesting! The terrific atmosphere in the camp was partly because of you. Again, these words are not enough to express the amount of appreciation we have but, ‘Thank you!

And of course, there was our amazing kitchen staff. Gabi, Sheina, Devora Leah and Tammy! There were so many parts of Winter Camp that would never have happened without you guys.

These girls were in the kitchen 24/7 – literally. Cooking, organizing, cleaning and much more. And always with a smile and good cheer. Thinking about it, the kitchen was a great place to be in! Full of joy and laughter… I don’t think any one of you were ever seen in a bad mood.

And ‘Acharon acharon choviv’, last but by no means the least, the most amazing group of counselors we have ever met, from Milan Seminary. You guys were beyond fun, and yet so loving, caring and inspirational at the same time. You all showed concern for each and every one of your campers, and there were many girls who will never forget their camp experience because of you.

There was one counselor however, and there are those who will know exactly who I mean, who was simply… Well – there aren’t any words to describe her really.

Speaking to teenage girls is tricky, especially when it comes to discussing certain subjects, you’re always going to have that couple of cynical girls out to rebel and mock. You have to watch your every word and I know it’s not easy. You’ve got know how to do it, it’s almost a talent!

But somehow, and none of us know how, you managed. More than managed! Each time you spoke to any of us, you left us feeling so warm on the inside and good about ourselves. You showed no favoritism – which is amazing. Each one of us were treated with an equal amount of care, love and above all, respect.

Even those times, when some of us would get difficult, and in those tough situations in which a lot of other people would have lost it, you had an unbelievable amount of patience and ability to stay calm and smiling! My friends and I all agree how much we have learnt from you and still will. You’ve changed our lives, and we will never, ever forget you.

I’ve come to the end of what I wanted to say, but I just want to emphasize once more the number of people involved in making such a major impact on so many girls. No words will ever be able to express just how much, it amazes me when I think about it.

May you all go mechoyil lechoyil and may your lives continue to be full of success in doing what the Rebbe would be so proud of, and what you’re all so good at doing.

Amen!