Camp accepts special needs children on a case by case basis.
Session Lengths: 1 Week
Explore Camp JCA Shalom Day Camp
The Camp JCA Shalom Day Camp Story
For nearly 60 years, Camp JCA Shalom has been the "Camp for All Seasons" Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall, thousands of campers and staff experience the magic of Camp JCA Shalom. Camp's vision of Tikkun Olam "creating a better world" is fulfilled through positive Jewish experiences.The magic and spirit (ruach) of campers everyday experiences coupled with developing a deeper sense of Jewish identity and the understanding that they belong to a diverse and dynamic Jewish community is why there is no better place to be a kid than at Camp JCA Shalom Day Camp at Kadima Day School. Jewish values, tradition, spirit and Israeli culture are woven into camp days through songs, art, stories, sports, drama, games and celebrations. We believe in teaching campers responsibility (achreiyut), cooperation (shalom bayit) and repairing our world (tikkun olam) in a way that goes hand-in-hand with splashing in the pool, enjoying the perfect popsicle and shouting a camp cheer.Campers also have fun! They participate in a variety of programs and activities daily, they make new and lasting friendships, and develop a wealth of new skills and interests. Our campers go home with a lifetime of cherished memories, new skills, and a positive self-image. It is truly an unforgettable experience for all!
Elisa Becker is the Associate Director for the Shalom Institute. She has worked for the Shalom Institute for over 8 years and has been working in camping for 27 years. Elisa is very involved with the American Camp Association and always has the safety and fun of the campers as her priority.
"Hosting Shlichim during the summers remains a wonderful experience for our family. Each year we meet dynamic and fascinating young Israelis with whom we maintain contact long after the summer has gone. Our kids are the greatest beneficiaries of the experience, finding in the Shlichim individuals who they come to regard as older siblings. It is an event we look forward to every year with good reason and plan on continuing for years to come."
- Soberman Family, The Jack and Pat Kay Centre Camp, Prosserman JCC
Connecting with Israel
“Although it was so new, Israel brought upon me a familiar sense of belonging much like what I feel at Camp Chi every summer. The ability to be in a place where one feels so free and proud to be a Jew is a feeling that makes me so proud to be involved in my Jewish heritage.”
- Joshua Krawitz, 17, Camp Chi, JCC Chicago
- Joshua Krawitz, 17, Camp Chi, JCC Chicago