MILFORD, Pennsylvania (Press Release) — NJY Camps, the world’s largest Jewish camp group, serving over 3,000 children annually, is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Camp Nah-Jee-Wah.
Camp Nah-Jee-Wah, was founded in 1924 by the New Jersey Women’s Federation as a camp for girls. Located in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, the letters NJW in its name reflect the founding by New Jersey Women.
Since its inception, the sleep-away camp played a role empowering the women who founded the camps and was a means of employment for young women who worked as camp counselors and instructors.
Many alumni recall that when they first attended Nah-Jee-Wah, they had limited knowledge of Judaism. However, they then came to cherish the opportunity to learn and engage in Jewish traditions and rituals. Many also recall that despite encountering antisemitism outside the camp, they felt safe and supported within the camp’s Jewish environment.
The camp is now co-ed serving elementary age children. Its campers are primarily from the New York metropolitan area and other regions of the east coast of the U.S. as far south as Florida.
At an event marking the centennial, many of the camp’s current women leaders as well as those who served decades ago, were recognized including longtime camp supporter Paula Gottesman who was honored for her contribution to the Gottesman Gesher campaign. This campaign involves a $2 million matching grant that will help the camps thrive and continue their mission.
Her support of NJY Camps has allowed the organization to improve its facilities, expand its programs, and provide scholarships to children who may not have had the opportunity to experience the magic of summer camp otherwise. Her contribution has enabled NJY Camps to reach a wider audience, ensuring that children from diverse backgrounds can benefit from the transformative power of camp.
“The impact of Paula Gottesman’s philanthropy extends beyond the physical improvements made to NJY Camps. By investing in the development of young minds and providing a safe and supportive environment, she has helped shape the future leaders of tomorrow. The experiences and friendships formed at NJY Camps have a lasting impact on campers’ lives, instilling values and skills that will serve them well,” said NJY Camps CEO, Michael Schlank.
He further stated that Gottesman has created a “legacy of empowerment and opportunity, exemplifying the Jewish community’s commitment to continuity during these challenging times, particularly with respect to rising levels of antisemitism throughout the United States.”
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Preceding provided by NJY Camps