Camp JCC fills days with fun, friendship, and spirit

by | Apr 16, 2026 | Camp, Other News

From themed weeks to unforgettable traditions, Camp JCC aims to keep the energy high throughout the summer. 

 Favorite camp events include the Color Run and Apache Relay, Lip Sync Showcase, Camp JCC Gala, and Carnival Colossal. Daily fun happens with spirit days such as Crazy Hair Day, Tacky Tourist Day, Neon Day, and Tie-Dye Day, along with summer staples such as H2O Day, Watermelon Wednesday, and the Stars & Stripes Pool Party.

 Every morning at Camp JCC begins with Boker Tov, a camp-wide celebration of songs, cheers, and laughter, setting the tone for a joyful day, and each week closes with Shabbat blessings, songs, and, of course, challah for all.

Camp JCC is the ultimate all-in-one day camp summer experience—offering something for every child. Campers swim twice daily (including instructional swim), play sports, create arts and crafts, explore nature, and participate in music, drama, and classic camp games like gaga.

 Open to children of all backgrounds, faiths, and abilities, Camp JCC is a welcoming, inclusive community where kids can try new things, build confidence, and make lasting friendships. 

Camp JCC has a strong commitment to safety, low camper-to-staff ratios, and a caring team that ensures every child feels seen, supported, and successful. 

“Camp JCC is more than just camp, it’s a place where kids grow,” says Betty Ann Levin, executive vice president, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and Simon Family JCC.

 Fun and values go hand in hand at Camp JCC. All activities are designed to help campers build confidence, character, and connection through core Jewish values:

• Simcha (Joy): Celebrating each day with laughter, energy, and positivity. 

• Chaverut (Friendship): Building meaningful relationships rooted in kindness and respect.

• Ometz Lev (Courage): Encouraging campers to try new things and step outside their comfort zones.

• Arvut (Community): Creating a strong sense of belonging through shared traditions and experiences.

• Achrayut (Responsibility): Teaching accountability and leadership in everyday moments.

• Kehilah (Inclusivity): Welcoming and celebrating campers of all backgrounds.

Through these values, Camp JCC creates a community where every camper feels they belong—and leaves with skills that last far beyond summer.

For information, go to campjcc.org.

Kate-Lynn Cipolla is director of Camp JCC. She may be reached at klcipolla@ujft.org.