Summer fun. Hand-washing stations. Safety protocols. Camper-counselor pods. JCC Camp Ruach did whatever it took to be open last summer, and Camp Director Alanna Steinberg couldn’t be prouder of that.
“It was quite evident by the feedback received from families, campers and staff, that Camp Ruach was exactly what they needed this past summer,” she says. “It was the literal breath of fresh air that helped remind kids how to be kids, how to have fun, and how to have positive social experiences.” “As one parent said, school districts should just call Camp Ruach to figure out how to open safely. They know what they’re doing!’”
Camp Ruach is part of the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC in Bridgewater. The 14-acre grounds have a campsite with outdoor saltwater pools, high and low ropes courses, sport courts, and archery. The indoor facility has a gymnasium, saltwater pool, preschool classrooms and multipurpose spaces. The program also boasts a robust arts, music, dance and STEM program with field trips for the oldest campers.
Camp runs for eight weeks and offers a ninth-week Specialty Camp program. Camp Ruach welcomes children with special needs, and its acclaimed inclusion program features a new splash pad that is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Last year, Camp Ruach followed all local, state and American Camp Association guidelines for safety and sanitization—and will continue to adhere to changing policies.
“We never lose sight of the true importance of camp,” Steinberg says. “To provide campers and staff with an outlet and experience to be their best selves, make and build meaningful relationships, and grow themselves as individuals within a larger community.”
775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater
908-443-9026Â
jcccampruach.org