Deep in the Hills:
Building our Future
Camp YJ’s Deep in the Hills: Building our Future Campaign is about shaping the future of the Jewish community,
where each camper is empowered to grow in their Jewish identity, form a connection to Israel, build lifelong friendships, and develop leadership skills in a supportive and nurturing environment.
In a world where the challenges facing the Jewish community are unfortunately greater than ever, your investment will ensure that Camp YJ continues to be a place of resilience, pride, and connection—securing a strong and vibrant Jewish future and a bond to Israel for generations to come.
In August 2023, following a year-long planning process in which we traveled across the country to solicit input from more than 300 stakeholders.
This included campers, staff, parents and alumni, Camp YJ's Board of Directors unanimously approved our first ever Strategic Plan, designed to chart our course for the next three to five years.
As we embark on our 85th summer, the Strategic Plan's Pillars and Priorities honor our past and will serve as our compass moving forward, propelling us toward continued excellence, growth, and unparalleled meaningful Jewish experiences for campers, staff, and the entire Camp YJ community.
Campaign Priorities
Our capital campaign is a commitment to being a home where every camper's potential is nurtured, where memories are etched in the fabric of time, and where the flame of Jewish identity burns brighter than ever.
Together, we will forge a path to ensure that Camp YJ remains a beacon of inspiration and growth for campers and staff today and for generations to come.
Modern Cabins. Modern Bathrooms.
Modern Boys Area
Building on the unique and special aesthetic of our camp, we are taking a hybrid approach that blends the best of new construction with thoughtful refurbishment and sustainability. In Lower Boys Area, where our younger campers reside and where we have more space, we will introduce modern cabins similar to those in Girls Area.
Meanwhile, to preserve as many trees as possible and the character of the area, the Upper Boys Area cabins will undergo a comprehensive refurbishment, featuring full bathrooms (including showers, sinks, and toilets) and an expanded footprint with a more spacious alcove, akin to the girls bunks. These enhancements will significantly improve the convenience and comfort of daily life at camp while strengthening CYJ’s competitive edge in camper recruitment and retention.
New and Improved Acoustics. New Air Conditioning.
21st Century Dining Hall
Revitalizing our camp dining hall is an investment in fostering an atmosphere where every meal becomes a shared experience.
Soundproofing will allow for unhindered conversations. Year-round windows will increase comfort in colder temperatures. And air conditioning will offer a break from the hot summer days. We will transform the space into a haven that elevates our dining experience as well as the spirit and community of Camp YJ.
Enhanced Play. Enhanced Comfort.
Enhanced Sports Complex
Campers need to be outside and active regardless of the weather. We will create a modern sports complex designed to provide shelter from the summer heat and rain. The complex will offer spectator areas and sports facilities for basketball, hockey, volleyball, and gymnastics; and flexible space for other activities like Shabbat services and Israeli dancing.
This covered facility will not only provide essential shelter from the summer elements but also serve as a versatile hub for camp life.
Refreshed Outdoor Areas. Refreshed Performance Spaces.
Refreshed Ulam Levine
Revitalizing Ulam Levine is a transformative endeavor poised to redefine the heartbeat of Camp YJ. This state-of-the-art multi-purpose space will have a dedicated stage, a space for camp gatherings, and a flexible outdoor space that includes a screened-in porch and outdoor pavilion. We will create a dynamic haven where athleticism, artistic expression, and community gatherings converge, amplifying the joy of every camper who steps into the new Ulam Levine.
With this capital campaign, we are creating transformative Jewish experiences
where every revitalized space contributes to a thriving community, ensuring that our camp remains a beacon of growth, connection, and cherished memories.
If you are interested in supporting the campaign today or having a conversation about your involvement. Drop us a note at ourfuture@campyj.org
