Overnight Camp Scholarships

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for Jewish Nevada's One Happy Camper First-Time Camper Grant?

Eligibility criteria varies from community to community. Typically campers must reside within the local program provider area (Nevada), already be enrolled in their first overnight nonprofit Jewish summer camp (a 12-18 or 19+ consecutive day session), and identify as Jewish. One Happy Camper was envisioned as an outreach initiative for children who are not currently receiving an immersive, daily Jewish experience. One Happy Camper is not a scholarship program. Grants are not based on financial need. A child can only receive one grant that is affiliated with the Foundation for Jewish Camp's One Happy Camper program. This includes, but is not limited to, the PJ (Library) Goes to Camp - One Happy Camper program, the Harold Grinspoon Western Massachusetts camp incentive program, and/or the various community-based and camp-sponsored One Happy Camper programs.

Eligibility criteria for first-time* campers:

· $1000 grant if enrolled for 19+ consecutive days

· $700 grant if enrolled for 12-18 consecutive days

· Must be entering grades 1-12 (after camp)

· Does not attend Jewish day school or yeshiva (Why is that?)

· Attending a nonprofit, Jewish, overnight camp listed on Find A Camp

*Campers who previously attended camp for 11 days or less are still potentially eligible for first-time camper grants.

My child attends Jewish Day School. Are they eligible for a One Happy Camper Grant?

The PJ (Library) Goes to Camp One Happy Camper Grant provides funding to Nevada’s Day School students. PJ Goes to Camp is now accepting applications for summer 2019. The eligibility requirements for these grants are very specific, so please visit the website and read through the information very carefully to make sure your family is eligible.

Why should I send my child to Jewish summer camp?

To put it simply, Jewish summer camp is a blast! Campers have an incredible time participating in high-quality activities and discovering new skills and interests. They celebrate Jewish values, traditions, and Israeli culture through song, food, art and dance.

How do I choose which Jewish camp is right for my child?

Choosing a Jewish camp for your child is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming! With so many Jewish camps to choose from, it may be difficult to figure out which one is the right fit for your child. Choosing a Jewish day or overnight camp for your child is a personal decision, but both experiences will provide your child with a summer of exciting, new opportunities! Your child will have the chance to gain skills and independence, meet new friends, and celebrate Judaism in a fun and safe environment. Many families send their child to a day camp to start, and then transition them to overnight camp when they are ready. Most children will be successful at an overnight camp if they have experienced being away from home for a short period of time (sleepovers at friends and relatives’ houses, overnight trips with day camp). Many overnight camps have “rookie camps”/ “short-stay” camps to have a 1 or 2 week “trial” at summer camp. Some camps even have family camps which provide opportunities for kids and parents to explore the wonderful aspects of summer camp as a family and introduce children to camp in a comfortable and informal atmosphere.

When does camp registration begin? 

At many camps, registration begins at the end of the summer so current campers have the opportunity to sign up first, and then it is opened up to new families. At many camps first session tends to full up more quickly than second session, so exploring camp options early is helpful in securing a spot for your child at camp!

How long is a typical camp session?

Camp sessions vary at each camp, but many camps offer a traditional 7-or-8-week sessions or two 3-or-4-week sessions. Additionally, with so many new specialty camps arising, camps are offering 2, 4, or 6 week options to accommodate more campers! Overnight camps are creating introductory “rookie” or “short-stay” camps to provide the overnight camp experience for 1 or 2 weeks either during an actual camp session or before/after the regular camp season.

How will I know if the Jewish camp I send my child to will be safe?

Ask the camp for references and talk to current camp parents and campers to learn about the safety of the camp. Camps that are ACA accredited ensure that all camps (not only Jewish camps) meet up to 300 health, safety and program quality standards established by the American Camp Association. The Foundation for Jewish Camp indicates whether or not the camps listed on their websites are ACA accredited, and camp websites will often display an ACA logo on the homepage of their website if they are accredited. Visit www.jewishcamps.org to learn more!

How does a Jewish camp differ from other summer camps?

Jewish camps have the same excellent facilities, programming and activities as other camps, plus even more! Jewish camp sparks growth in Jewish awareness, skills, and self-definition. Campers will experience Jewish values and traditions in a fun and informal setting. Jewish spirit is infused into every activity, making Jewish camp a truly extraordinary experience!

Are there camps that will accommodate my child with special needs?

There are many Jewish day and overnight camps that are able to accommodate children with special needs. There are a broad range of different programs including mainstreaming, separate programming and exclusive special needs camps targeting children with severe special needs. All of these opportunities provide your child with an unforgettable summer filled with positive, long lasting Jewish experiences in a safe and nurturing environment.

Are there any Jewish specialty camps?

Yes! There are Jewish specialty camps that are specific in the areas of arts, technology, music, theater, outdoor adventure, fashion, sports, health & wellness, science, business and so much more! These camps allow your child to hone in on a specific skillset or interest within the context of Jewish values.

What are the facilities like at camp?

Jewish camps offer a wide range of excellent facilities. Whether you prefer a rustic setting or a more state-of-the-art facility for your child, there are Jewish camps for every child.