Happy campers(1)

In response to the changing needs of families, Keshet is rolling out several new camps this summer, catering to a wide range of ages, abilities, and interests.

“We were motivated to rethink, reimagine, and create something new to better serve the community,” said Jennifer Phillips, CEO and President at Keshet, a JUF partner that supports the needs of children and young adults with disabilities.

In the past, Keshet summer programs were geared toward towards teens, but families were searching for more tailored options. “We were hearing from families that they have kids whose ages and needs were different than those who we have traditionally served in our camps,” Phillips said. “One of the things we pride ourselves on at Keshet is meeting people’s individual needs.”

Camp Keshet North

Held at Soloman Schechter Day School, Camp Keshet North will serve both first-time and experienced campers in elementary and middle school, ages five to 13. The half-day program will run from June 17 to Aug. 9 and will aim to provide a supportive environment. Campers will enjoy multi-sensory experiences, including water play and swimming, plus art, movement, music, and outdoor exploration.

Staff will include special education paraprofessionals with a camper-to-counselor ratio of 1:1 or 1:2.

“There aren’t a lot of other opportunities like this in our area, especially for kids this young,” said Jamie Lake, Chief Communications Officer at Keshet. “Our trained camp counselors and paraprofessionals ensure that each child’s unique needs are met, fostering a sense of belonging, growth, and joy.”

Camp Keshet South

Designed for older campers seeking summer fun in an encouraging environment, Camp Keshet South will be held at Ida Crown Jewish Academy from June 17 to July 26. Half-day and full-day options will be available for campers between ages 14 and 21, and programs are intended to promote social-emotional growth.

“Camp Keshet South is all about having summer fun,” Lake said. “It has everything that you would expect in a traditional day camp. What distinguishes it is the ratio of support, which is either 1:1 or 1:2. We are the only Jewish camp of this nature in our community.”

Activities will include music, art, fitness, and games led by specially trained instructors. Campers will visit local swimming pools, and even have the option for an overnight trip at a nearby sleepaway camp from July 29-Aug. 2.

Keshet-on-the-Go

Every day will be an adventure at Keshet-on-the-Go! Most days will include trips throughout the Chicago area, including beaches, amusement parks, and water parks. Designed for campers between ages 14 to 21, the full-day camp will take place at Ida Crown and run from June 16-July 26.

“This program is designed for campers who need some additional support in navigating social relationships and other types of communication, but not necessarily at the same level of support that we offer in our other camps,” Lake explained. “This is perfect for teens who have gone to camp before. Camp is still developmentally appropriate for them, but they aged out of their programs.”

Campers will also have the option for an overnight trip at a nearby sleepaway camp from July 29-Aug. 2.

KEYS

The weeks between camp and the start of the school year can lead to bored kids and frustrated parents. Which is why Keshet Extend Your Summer (KEYS) will run from Aug. 5-16, offering children of all abilities- entering kindergarten through eighth grade- choice-based activities, field trips, games, and more based at Solomon Schechter Day School.

The all-inclusive, full-day camp will be led by specialists and experienced camp counselors.

“KEYS is a great way to end summer,” Lake said. “Parents can rest assured that their kids will be well taken care of, have a great time, and be ready to start school.”

To learn more or register for one of Keshet’s new summer programs, visit keshet.org/ourprograms/camps.