As we prepare to welcome our final Shabbat of the Kayitz, we find ourselves holding mixed emotions of joy and sadness. At Camp, Shabbat marks the passage of time. Each of our four Shabbatot anchors the session, offering time to reflect and reset. But with this Shabbat comes the realization that another summer is drawing to a close, and it will be a whole year until we are back together at Camp Ramah Darom.
For our Gesher campers, our oldest aidah, this Shabbat has even more significance as it will be their last as chanichim (campers). The tears they shed are not simply about leaving—they are about what their Camp experience has given them. Camp has made them stronger, more connected, and more committed to build and contribute to a vibrant Jewish future.
This Shabbat, I look forward to hearing our Gesher campers speak to the entire machaneh (camp) about what their Ramah journey has meant to them. I know I’ll be emotional too—having watched so many of them grow over the last five summers into thoughtful, compassionate young leaders. I could not be prouder of them and of all our remarkable chanichim and tzevet (staff).
This mix of emotions is a hard feeling to describe—no one wants to leave Camp, and yet we know the time has come.
In this week’s parsha, Matot, the tribes of Reuven and Gad ask Moshe to remain in the fertile lands outside of Israel. One can understand their hesitation—why leave comfort and abundance for uncertainty? We know that leadership means stepping forward, even when it is hard.
While it is sad to leave Camp, we are fortunate that Ramah Darom stays with us. Camp lives on—in memories, in friendships, in the confidence and connection our kids bring home with them. And Ramah Darom will be here again—welcoming us back as campers, tzevet, alumni, or retreat guests during the year. On Wednesday, for example, we will welcome 23 families to Camp Yofi, a special program for children with autism and their families
I enter the end of this summer with immense gratitude. I am grateful to our extraordinary tzevet for making this summer so full of care, joy, and purpose. If you’re inspired by them as I am, I invite you to donate to our Staff Appreciation Fund so we can celebrate their efforts with a special evening in their honor after your children return home.