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Judaism & Israel

Jewish Community

Our community consists of campers who come from public schools in small towns and Jewish day schools in big cities. CYJ supports and strengthens a multitude of Jewish identities. We foster a sense of pride and are pluralist approach to both Judaism and Israel.

Three female campers holding Israeli flags

CYJ is a space where a camper that is observant can feel at ease, and the child who does not know what Shabbat is can ask questions without judgment. At CYJ our campers develop an understanding of what Jewish means to them and are informed by what it means for others. They respect each other, learn from one another, and grow together. Their growth also informs their understanding of the world.

Girl getting ready to raise Israeli flag

Older male camper with Jewish banner

Israel

Our program connects campers to Israel through interactive programs featuring nature, art, sports, scout based activities under the leadership of our talented Israeli staff and educators. Creating a love for Israel as the homeland of the Jewish people is what CYJ Midwest has been creating for over 50 years.

Shabbat

Our kitchen creates delicious kosher food culminating weekly in a beautiful Shabbat dinner with challah braided by our campers. Shabbat is a time to relax with friends, while engaging in special programs only offered one day a week – this is a highlight for many campers over the summer.