Wow – to say that we “made it” is an understatement! We had a fantastic summer: from regular days and electives to special day and night activities. We were so happy to see happy kids, not on screens, but interacting with one another. Having a social, outdoor, interactive experience – what could be better?
From our perspective it was successful. We had a few takeaways from the summer that we wanted to share. Ken grew up at Avoda; Ronni has been in camping for years. We have worked here for many years. But we still “study” who we are and learn new things each summer.
One of the main takeaways from this summer was that at Avoda, we get to know your kids. Camp Avoda is small and intimate. While the campus itself is small, easy to navigate and manageable, it’s the sense of community we have that makes us special. We know every camper! And not just by name – we know your son’s positive attributes, quirks, hang-ups, dispositions, and everything in between. It’s being part of this fabric that we are all part of for 7.5 weeks that makes us unique. Ronni, Leon, Gary, Chris and I know all your kids. Our office staff, kitchen and nurse know them too. And the bunk counselors? They certainly too, know all the kids.
We get to see the boys as they wake up, at meals, in social situations, asking for help, competing on the field, creating in our art program, being challenged and then growing and overcoming fears and obstacles, as well as of course, creating friendships and memories.
Another observation: there is literally something happening all the time, day and night. We have scheduled programs. But we also have downtime. Studies show that free time is beneficial for kids to grow as they get to decide what they want to do, take initiative, and create. When I look around the field after an all-camp activity, I see a “Where’s Waldo” type of scene where there is soccer happening, tetherball, hoops, kids looking for frogs, kids hanging out in the hammocks, and more. It’s really organic, fun, active, and alive!
So as we gear up for next summer (we are finalizing dates, rates and plan to open enrollment in the coming weeks), we wanted to point out some of the things we love about camp: mainly your sons!
Happy and healthy new year! We hope your fast is easy and meaningful, if you are indeed fasting.
-Ken and Ronni