Dear Camp Mountain Chai Families,
As we begin our third and final session of Summer 2025, I’m holding so much in my heart—gratitude, pride, anticipation, and above all, deep joy. The past weeks have been filled with growth, adventure, and connection. And now, with Session 3 upon us, we enter our final chapter—a time full of warmth, friendship, and just a touch of end-of-summer magic.
Whether your camper is here for the very first time this summer or returning for another round, they are stepping into something truly special. Session 3 carries the wisdom and momentum of all that has come before it, along with the energy and promise of new beginnings.
As the Camp Director—and as someone who cares deeply about every child who joins our community—I want to share a few of my personal wishes for this session:
- I wish for your camper to laugh hard and often—belly laughs at bunk time, spontaneous dance parties, and inside jokes with new friends.
- I wish for moments of courage, when they try something they didn’t think they could do—whether it’s climbing to the top of the tower, jumping into the pool for swim checks, or simply raising their hand to speak in a group.
- I wish for quiet, reflective moments too—watching the stars after Havdalah, walking back from the chadar ochel with a friend, or writing a Shabbat-o-gram to their bunkmate.
- I wish for friendships that feel easy and real—those magical bonds where your child feels seen, accepted, and truly at home.
- I wish for a deepening of Jewish identity—not just through prayer or song, but through the way we live our values together: with kindness, compassion, gratitude, and joy.
By this point in the summer, our staff have hit their stride. They know the rhythms of each day, they’re confident in their roles, and they’re still filled with the heart and intention that brought them to camp in the first place. They’re ready to make this session unforgettable—for your child and for each other.
To our families at home: thank you for trusting us. Camp is a place where your child can grow in independence while being held by a deeply caring community. We’re honored to partner with you in giving them this experience—one that we know helps shape who they are in meaningful and lasting ways.
Session 3 is a beautiful close to an incredible summer. My hope is that every camper leaves with memories that will stay with them for years to come—and a little spark of Camp Mountain Chai they carry in their heart until next summer.
With love and excitement,
Rachel Shyloski
Camp Director
Camp Mountain Chai
