Ages: 12-17
The Samara camp continued to expand on the "Master Town" theme where campers created their own physical spaces which were designed to have a positive impact on the relationship between the campers.
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The campers used materials to create their own town and expressed themselves through their work. Open communication was a key aspect of the process.
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The campers in the midst of drawing
their "Master town."
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Jewish texts were explored in sessions in the Batei-Midrash, (Hebrew for Study Halls.) A key concept explored was "Man and Land," which was the means for enabling campers to cultivate a personal connection with the Land of Israel, the world Jewish community and the aspects of Jewish culture most relevant to them.
Jewish values were studied in the context of a game called "Sages." Campers were divided into a number of "communities" and each community asked the sages questions. The answers given by the sages were read out loud and the campers chose the answers closest to their own personal views. The game stimulated a great deal of lively discussion and connected the campers, in a unique way, to the views and outlooks of famous Jewish sages.
Interview with campers:
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"The counselors worked hard to make interesting activities and events for us."
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"Hi, my name is Irina Mitzel. I am 15 years old from Orenburg, Russia.
This is my fifth camp. I liked everything about the camp: the counselors, the activities, and of course, the accommodations! I dream of becoming a "madricha" (Hebrew word for counselor) in the future because I liked the way the counselors conducted the activities and games and how they treated us. They were always smiling and happy, caring and creative – the most important traits every counselor should have. I'm very proud to be a Jew, to be part of Jewish history. Israel for me is my homeland where I hope to live and work one day."
"Here, at camp, I feel at home."
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"I am Anita Bakaeva and I am 16 years old from Saratov, Russia.
This is my fourth camp and I'm an active participant of the youth club in my area. Every year, I'm waiting to go to summer camp so that I can meet my friends from different places and to make new friends. Here I feel at home. Our counselors created a 'mini Israel' for us. This is the only place where one can really feel Jewish. I do my best to observe our traditions, to light Shabbat candles and to take a part in all holiday celebrations in our community. Also I try to study more about our traditions and history. Israel for me is a Holy land given to my people and to me. I want to become a counselor and one day to visit Israel."
August 12- 19, 2010 / Elul 5770