As the buses pulled away from the picturesque campgrounds in Glendale, California, a sense of pride and renewed energy was palpable. The camp experience, filled with inspiration, connection, and thrilling activities, left the young Shluchim rejuvenated as they returned from this year’s MyShliach Tzeirei haShluchim Winter Camp.
Just eight days prior, these young Shluchim had arrived, eager to have fun, learn, and connect. They were greeted by the beautiful campgrounds, featuring breathtaking mountain views, hiking trails, sports facilities, and outdoor amphitheaters. Throughout the week, the camp’s programming reinforced the core values of Chassidus and the mission of Shlichus. Farbrengens, interactive classes, and nightly Rebbe videos instilled a deep sense of pride and responsibility in the campers.
“Our goal is to create an environment where the young Shluchim can recharge, connect, and draw strength for their vital mission,” says Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Executive Director of Merkos 302 and Chairman of MyShliach. “This camp is not just a break; it’s a springboard for their continued dedication to fulfilling the Rebbe’s vision with pride and joy.”
With Yud Tes Kislev taking place in the middle of the camp, the week was dedicated to preparing and learning about one of the most integral Yomim Tovim for a Chossid. The days leading up to it were focused on understanding Chassidus, the meaning of a Rebbe, and the importance of Shlichus, further empowering these young soldiers in the Rebbe’s army.
Even the activities were infused with the teachings of Chassidus and focused on fostering Yirei Shomayim. One game was inspired by the story of the Alter Rebbe’s release from prison. At each step of the game, campers committed to new Hachlatos in Torah, Mitzvos, and Ahavas Yisrael, exemplifying their dedication to Yiddishkeit and Chassidus.
When Yud Tes Kislev arrived, it was celebrated with farbrengens, passionate talks, and vivid stories that brought to life the history and spirit of the day. With a guest farbrengen led by Rabbi Simcha Backman, Shliach to Glendale, CA, the campers learned firsthand what it means to live with Chassidus, and how to dedicate one’s life to the Rebbe’s mission. The campers also heard words of inspiration from Rabbi Efraim Mintz, the Executive Director of JLI.
The highlight of the Yom Tov came on Motzei Shabbos with a beautiful Melava Malka, featuring a guest speaker, the head Shliach of California, Rabbi Shlomo Cunin. This was followed by dedicated time for each camper to write a pan to the Rebbe, focusing on their personal and special connection. As the campers sang and danced through the night, their love and excitement for their unique Shlichus were overwhelmingly evident and felt by all.
“It was like a week-long farbrengen about Chassidus and Shlichus,” says Rabbi Zalmy Kudan, the beloved longtime director of MyShliach THWC Camp. “The counselors did an amazing job setting a Chassidishe tone and preparing the campers for such a special day.”
On the last night, a beautiful banquet was held, with a keynote address by a young Shliach, Meir Kahanov, from the Conejo Valley, CA, who shared stories from his own experiences on Shlichus. The banquet perfectly showcased the unity and family spirit built over the days they spent together.
The week concluded with a grand trip to Knotts Berry Farm, where in addition to having a thrilling time on the rides, the campers demonstrated their dedication by choosing to lay Tefillin on fellow Jews instead of spending more time on roller coasters.
The camp was made possible thanks to the generosity of Rabbi Mendel Kotlarsky, Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, Mr. Shmuel Aizenberg, Mr. Yosef Gorowitz, Mr. Shalom Laytin, Dr. Zeev Rav-Noy, Rabbi Michy Rav-Noy, and Mr. Shlomo Y. Rechnitz. Their contributions were essential in creating an environment where these young Shluchim could thrive. Without their generous support, this wonderful experience would not have been possible.
The camp, directed by veteran camp directors Rabbi Zalmy and Shterna Kudan, and Rabbi Mendel and Rochel Loschak, is facilitated in partnership with MyShliach at Merkos 302 and is organized and run by Shluchim for Shluchim. The executive committee overseeing the camp’s funding and operations includes California Shluchim Rabbis Simcha Backman, Nachman Abend, and Shlomo Bistritsky.
To help create this incredible experience for young Shluchim, visit https://www.tzeireihashluchimcamp.com/donate.html
