We have dedicated multiple staff members to provide ongoing monitoring and support of both campers and staff throughout the summer. Here are some of the amazing staff on Our Staff Care Team.
Hi. I’m Russell Birner, and I am so happy to be the new Director of Camper Care this summer. I have spent the last six summers supporting camper and staff mental emotional and social health (MESH) at Young Judaea’s Camp Tel Yehudah in Upstate New York. I came back to the camping world after a lifetime as an attorney and therapist because I believe camp is a truly transformative experience and should be everyone’s happy and safe place. My goal is to help kids who might struggle “in the real world” to come to camp and have the support they need and for everyone to be able to stay at camp once they get here. CMC has been lucky enough to be part of several related initiatives and programs through the Foundation of Jewish Camp’s and the Jewish Federations of North America’s BeWell. These have allowed us to train our staff in Youth Mental Health FIrst Aid and train our SITs in Teen Mental Health First Aid. In addition, we are part of the new Character at Camp Initiative, which is focused on the development of relational strengths including kindness, compassion, empathy, inclusion, and teamwork.
Hi everyone! I’m Lindsay, and I am pumped to be joining the team as the Camper Care Specialist this summer! I have an undergrad in Psychology from San Diego state. I also have experience teaching at Jewish Synagogues for 5 years. I’m here to ensure every camper feels safe, supported, and has the most fun summer possible! A little about me: I’m originally from the LA area, I’m a huge music lover, and I have the biggest sweet tooth- luckily, I also love to bake. I’ll be there to listen, help you find a solution, or make you laugh. This summer my service dog Luna will also be joining me at camp. We are so excited to meet all of you and make some memories and have a great summer!
Becky Cohen lives in West Chester, PA with her two dogs, Ozzie and Layla, and her partner Russell (who you’ll recognize as Camp Mountain Chai’s new Director of Camper Care). When she’s not running after her dogs, she likes taking on new baking adventures and visiting her three children all across the Country. Becky has created a healing system called The Path to Heal and has written self-help books and healing card decks. She sees private clients and teaches. Prior to becoming a healer, Becky was a Director at JP Morgan Chase. Becky has a BA in Psychology and an MBA. Although new to CMC, Becky worked at another camp supporting staff in every way. Becky is looking forward to being the Staff Health & Wellness Manager at CMC this summer.
Hi there! I’m Lauren Caplan, also known as L-Mat, and I’m the Staff Experience Director. Since 2019, I’ve been our Staff Experience Director, crafting unforgettable summers filled with laughter, growth, and lifelong friendships. Before this role, I was a unit leader for Shorashim (2nd-4th), Netzarim (5th-6th), and Amirim (7th-8th grade) and CMC’s Communications Director. Some fun facts about me: I’m from Toronto, Canada. My twin sister is B.Cap, CMC’s Assistant Director. When I am not at camp, I’m a kindergarten teacher at a Jewish private school. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out at the beach, exploring the city’s best pizza joints, and hanging out with my Goldendoodle, Dylan Bourbon. Here’s to the best summer ever!
While at CMC this summer, we have been able to help a lot of the campers and staff adjusting to the environment and who might be having a hard time in their cabins and being away from home. We have also had the opportunity to facilitate programs and initiatives to help the camp community. We are so thankful to be a part of this amazing team this summer and provide support for your kids and staff.
