WHAT IS JEWISH CAMP?
Jewish camp is more than simply camp with Jewish kids. It’s a place where ruach, or spirit, is woven into everything, from dancing to hitting a home run, inviting campers to connect with Judaism in meaningful ways while having the summer of their lives.
For example:
- Songs and activities are often tied to intrinsic Jewish values like community, kindness, and an appreciation for giving back.
- Color war is more than just “red versus blue.” Teams may be based on Jewish historical leaders or places in Israel.
WHY JEWISH CAMP?
For your child, Jewish camp is just plain fun, but it’s also much more than that — it’s camp with a soul. Camp is exciting! Your kids will have the summer of their lives while exploring the values of independence, friendship, community, fairness, diversity, giving back, inclusion, and heritage. Jewish camp is packed with action: boating, basketball, filmmaking, rock climbing, cooking, archery, painting, drama, dance — you name it! Camp promotes your child’s individual growth in an enriching Jewish environment.
- Jewish education at camp is fun, meaningful, and engaging.
- Camp learning is effective because campers don’t feel like they’re being taught. It happens naturally, without a classroom.
- Staff members are role models, inspiring confidence and independence, guiding your child to hone their skills, building self-esteem, and helping them discover interests and talents they never knew they had.
With 160+ overnight camps for kids of all ages, you’ll have no trouble finding a great fit for your family. Types of camps available include:
- Sports (softball, tennis, horseback riding, basketball, etc.)
- Arts (drama, filmmaking, painting, music, etc.)
- Environment, science, and technology
- Outdoor adventure
Our Federation prioritizes Jewish joy and continuity at every stage of life. Studies show that children who go to Jewish camp are more likely to become adults who value their heritage, are engaged in their communities, support more causes, and take on leadership roles throughout their lives. With a wide variety of camps available, there is a Jewish camp for every family, no matter your background, where your child can feel comfortable, have fun, learn more about themselves, and explore their Jewish identity.
ONE HAPPY CAMPER GRANTS
One Happy Camper grants – a non need-based gift up to $1,500 for eligible new campers toward 160+ Jewish overnight camps and teen programs.
What Is It?
One Happy Camper isn’t just a one-time deal — it’s a multi-year grant! Families can receive up to $1,500 for their child’s first Jewish overnight camp experience, with the chance to apply again next summer for more support. The program helps families experience the magic of Jewish camp for the first time! It’s available for 160+ camps and teen programs across North America.
Grant Amounts
The amount of your One Happy Camper grant depends on the length of your child’s camp session. Campers attending for 12–18 days are eligible for a $1,000 grant, while those attending for 19 days or longer can receive $1,500.
Who’s Eligible:
Children who:
- Include Judaism as part of their identity
- Live in Greater Charlotte
- Are enrolled in a Jewish overnight camp in the U.S. or Canada (Foundation for Jewish Camp network)
- Are attending camp for the first time for 12+ consecutive days A prior shorter stay does not affect eligibility.
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FAQs
What are One Happy Camper Incentive Grants?
The One Happy Camper Incentive Grant provides up to $1,500 to Greater Charlotte children attending an eligible Jewish residential camp or teen program for 12 days or more ($1,000 for 12–18 days and $1,500 for 19+ days).
Children attending programs shorter than 12 days are still eligible for the incentive if it is their first time at a Jewish overnight camp.
These grants are designed to encourage families to try Jewish overnight summer camp by offering a one-time financial incentive. They are not scholarships and not needs-based. Research shows that nearly 80% of first-time Jewish campers return year after year, making this incentive a powerful way to introduce children to meaningful Jewish camp experiences.
Why is this called an “incentive grant”? Isn’t it a scholarship?
This grant is meant to incentivize families to consider Jewish residential camp by offering a one-time award for first-time campers. Unlike scholarships, it is not based on financial need, and we do not recommend using it as a substitute for needs-based assistance, since the incentive can only be used once.
If you are seeking needs-based support, please refer to Other Financial Resources for additional scholarship options.
Can siblings receive a grant?
Yes! Each eligible first-time camper may apply individually.
How do we receive the grant funds?
Grant funds are applied directly to your camp account as a credit. You must be registered for camp before completing the One Happy Camper application.
Once your application is approved and your child's registration is verified by the camp, funds will be sent to the camp in the summer.
• If you still have a camp balance, the grant will be applied toward it.
• If you are paid in full or the balance is less than the grant amount, the camp will issue a refund or credit.
We recommend confirming details with your camp directly.
How long does approval take?
Please allow 4–8 weeks for processing. Grant payments are sent to camps beginning in late spring.
Can we also apply for other financial aid?
Yes! The One Happy Camper Incentive Grant can be combined with scholarships and other forms of financial assistance.
Is there a deadline?
Grants are awarded on a rolling basis until funds are depleted, so we encourage families to apply early.
