It was a record setting summer for Gan Israel Day Camp of Johannesburg, South Africa. 415 kids enjoyed two weeks of Jewish fun and excitement, the largest amount of campers in the history of the camp.
Since Rabbi Pini and Rochie Pink assumed the task of directing the camp three years ago, it has seen a steady increase in attendance and program quality. “We are immensely proud of what they have accomplished,” said Rabbi David Masinter, of the city’s central Chabad House, under whose auspices the camp is run. “They have brought Judaism to life for countless children, making it fun, meaningful and relevant.”
The secret to the camp’s success, they say, is the staff. “It is our highest priority to ensure we have responsible, devoted and loving counselors, who will do anything for our campers,” says Rabbi Pink. Yisroel Levertov and Mendy Katzman returned from the States to lead the boys’ division again, while Penina Davidoff returned with a new friend, Chayale Tiefenbrun, to run the girls’ division.
Rochel Sputz and Mushkie Lewin took charge of the newly formed kiddie division. “Due to incredible demand, we added a program for 3 and 4 year olds,” said Rochie Pink. “The amount of appreciative feedback we received was unbelievable.”
“Our first experience in Johannesburg was amazing,” says Levertov. “We didn’t hesitate for a second in deciding whether or not to come back.” Penina Davidoff said she loved the “the warmth of the community and the spirit of the campers,” and jumped at the opportunity to return.
Camp Gan Israel features dozens of activities and programs on The Torah Academy and Yeshiva College’’s sprawling educational campuses. Campers enjoyed trips to Brightwater Common for mini golf and bowling and Gold Reef City.
“Every day I picked up my children they had smiles on their faces,” said Lisa Renber. “They could not wait to go back the next day. We are all looking forward to winter camp in a few months.”
go!!!!
all of u!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rochi and Pini Pink are the most amazing couple/shluchim that South Africa has. Not only do they do a summer and winter camp but they also do a special needs camp. They work hard and are amazing. Keep up the amazing work you do.
Penina Rocks the house
You went back?? Awesome!!!
wasntt chayale tefiefenbrun the hc?
awesome job chayale!
Chayale when are you coming home?
Love your best sister Toby!
woot woot!! to riki liberow dikla style!
You guys are incredible!! Keep it up!!!!!!!!
Chayale rocks, we miss your fun activities in Ilford
Wrong camp, Dovber and Srula were not involved in the day camp.
YOU ARE THE BEST CAMP DIRECTORS!!! Well done!!! Camp was brilliant as usual 🙂
Go Srula and Dov Chaiton for being such amazing
Ppl. Camp wouldn’t have been the same without you
Wow, cool stuff you didnt tell me you were going??
This is amazing!!
Your amazing like usual, still waiting to see pics!!
amazing shtuff
Penina, very proud of you!! You really are good at working with people and making an awesome atmosphere!
Keep it up!
Your brother!
Best Shluchim to work for!!!
Woohoo go penina!!! Miss u tonzz!!
Looks like u did a amazing job!!
Love u in Montreal!! Xx
Go Rochie and Pini!!!
So sad i missed camp this year!!!
Rochel sputz!!! U rock!!!! Keep being awesome!!!!
go peninaa woooh you forsure rocked the place ;)) well miss you 🙁
is that u???
u look AWSUM!
Well done Penina!
woohoo!! u guys rock! tgo london!!! looks like u had a good time!!
your the besttt!!!!!
FANTASTIC JOB!!!!
XXXXXXX
GUESS WHO?!
I love you, I miss you. Your best little sister Mimi.
Your amazing girl
and penina and chayale! awesomness just doesnt describe xx
we love you guys xx
u are amazing
You guys are amazing!
nice to see my cousins from both sides! ariella and aaron lookin good 🙂
Why did you post a pic of yudi? Lol
best hc!!!
I guess it’s summer over there, looks it!