Camp Shalom was established in 1968 with the goal of bringing together Jewish kids in central Kentucky for two weeks of summer fun through an enriching and nurturing experience. Our non-denominational program provides a comfortable setting for children from all streams of Judaism to come together and learn about Jewish culture, history, and identity regardless of their individual background or level of observance. Camp Shalom is open to youth ages 4 through 14.

     Activities are geared to encourage unity, fun, and learning. Each day is filled with arts and crafts, sports, music, water play, storytelling, games, teva (nature), and other special projects. Woven throughout the day, universal values are incorporated into activities through the lens of Jewish traditions, ethics, and learning by focusing on three main Jewish principles: Torah (Jewish text); Avodah (work); and Gemilut Chasidim (acts of loving kindness).

     At the end of the week parents are invited to join us for an open house where we will share in a Shabbat experience, have a brief talent show, and a hear a summary of our week together by the staff. Campers return home with group pictures from their session and any arts and crafts or teva projects they made during the week.

     Most importantly, Camp Shalom offers our children an opportunity to be with other Jewish children, creating memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Special Activities

     Additional activites aside from the daily routine often vary at camp. Each year we try to add something fun and different for the campers. Some of our special activities have included guest storytellers, reptile shows, astronomy shows, community personalities visiting, local and national children's singers and musicians, and all-camp maccabiah games (color wars).

Extended Day

     Extended Day is an option for the camper to stay until 5:45 pm rather than leaving at the regular dismissal time of 3:00 pm.  Extra water games and craft projects as well as other supervised activities are offered. The fee for the week is an additional $40 and requires pre-registration.   

Ofarim (Deer)

     This group is for children entering Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st grade.  Ofarim participate in special age appropriate activities that are similar to the older groups but are tailored to fit their needs. We balance sports, nature, water games, music, arts & crafts and Jewish learning. Special consideration is given to these campers and their unique needs since most of our Ofarim campers are at camp for the first time. We have a high staff to camper ratio for this group.

Tsofim (The Scouts)

     Our campers entering 2nd and 3rd grades have the full range of Camp Shalom activities available to them. Tsofim participate in water games, nature, sports, art, games and chugim (daily electives that each camper will choose often including nature or science, cooking, art, sports, dance, drama and more).

Chalutzim (The Pioneers)

     Chalutzim campers, entering grades 4 and 5, are given opportunities to explore, hike, play water games, play group games, choose chugim (daily elective activities) music, art, and more. Chalutzim have more challenging activities suitable for their age and are given lots of positive reinforcement through the success of personal achievement within the camp programs.

Gesher (Bridge)

Established in 2005, Gesher is for campers entering 6th and 7th grade. At this age, campers need to express their individuality while learning trust and group interaction. This program works to build a sense of mutual responsibility and cooperation and strengthen their Jewish identity. Gesher activities support these goals through unique art projects, chugim (daily elective activities including art, photography, cooking and more), sports, fun team building excercises, nature hikes, water games, discussions and more. Gesher provides a challenging and activity filled experience.

SPECIAL OVERNIGHT  - Gesher has a 3 day Shabbat weekend experience between first and second session. This year's overnight will return to the tradition of visiting Camp Livingston in Benington, Indiana. All food, lodging, and transportation will be provided for only $75. Give your child this incredible experience. Contact Tamara Ohayon for more information at (859) 268-0672 or camp@jewishlexington.org.  

Habonim (The Builders)

We are excited to offer this new program for teens entering grades 8 and 9. Activities will be focused on team building, leadership skills, Jewish identity and building self-esteem through intense group projects, discussions, and fun group activities. Habonim will occasionally be traveling by van to participate in community service projects and other special activities throughout central Kentucky.

Staff

We are always looking for dedicated, nurturing, and creative youth and adults ages 14 and up. Entering 9th graders have an option between Habonim or our Counselor-in-Training program.

Fill out an application!

TUITION  Subject to change.  Listed prices are based on 2013 tuition.

Early Registration - By June 7     

Ofarim/Tsofim/Chalutzim/Gesher                $160.00 per week
Habonim                                                     $220.00 per week
Extended day M-Th. (3:00-5:45)                     $40.00 per week
  Friday Open House and pick up is a 4:30 p.m.

Regular Registration - After June 7   Subject to change.  Listed prices are based on 2013 tuition.

Ofarim/Tsofim/Chalutzim/Gesher                $180.00 per week
Habonim                                                     $240.00 per week
Extended day M-Th. (3:00-5:45)                     $40.00 per week
  Friday Open House and pick up is a 4:30 p.m.                   

Enrollment is on a first come, first served basis.  Early registration is recommended.

Discounts are offered for first time campers and families who refer others. For additional questions call our Camp Director, Tamara Ohayon, at (859) 268-0672 or email to camp@jewishlexington.org.

To inquire about scholarships for Camp Shalom, contact our Jewish Family Services director, Mimi Kaufman, at (859) 269-8244 or jfs@jewishlexington.org.