Although our summer camp sessions have come to an end, Camp Yofi families are preparing to celebrate a magical Shabbat on our campus. There could be no more fitting way to conclude the season than with this five-day program for families with a child on the autism spectrum, reflecting the values of belonging and community that define Ramah Darom.
This year, more than 30 of our summer tzevet (staff) chose to stay and serve at this meaningful program. Year after year, families tell us how deeply they appreciate our dedicated counselors. Many former counselors even return for this week because of the lasting impact Camp Yofi has had on them.
What makes Camp Yofi so special is that it embraces the entire family. Children on the autism spectrum, their siblings, parents, and often grandparents come together to build a community rooted in understanding and acceptance. While awareness and inclusion have grown over the years, most families still encounter spaces where participation is difficult, especially within Jewish life.
Camp Yofi is a beautiful expression of our belief that children deserve the opportunity to experience the joy of Jewish camp and every person deserves to be embraced for exactly who they are.
This week’s parashah, Eikev, reminds us:
וְלִמַּדְתֶּם אֹתָם אֶת־בְּנֵיכֶם
“And you shall teach these words to your children.”
While these words specifically refer to teaching the Shema and God’s commandments, they also remind us of our responsibility to pass our Jewish values from one generation to the next. At Camp Ramah Darom, we fulfill this mitzvah by surrounding our campers with caring role models and meaningful Jewish experiences.
Whether campers spend four weeks, eight weeks, or families spend five days at Ramah Darom, they all count down the days until they can return to their happy place. Our hope is that they leave with lasting friendships, stronger Jewish identities, and a community that will always welcome them home, carrying those experiences and values with them throughout the year.
As another incredible summer comes to a close, we thank you again for entrusting us with your children. If Camp made a difference in your family’s life this summer, we invite you to thank the staff who made it possible with a gift to the Staff Appreciation Fund and share your story with us. We have already received beautiful emails about children who gained confidence, built friendships, and deepened their connection to Judaism. Those stories mean the world to us, and we are so grateful to have each of you as part of our community.