The overnight camp experience at Emma Kaufmann Camp promotes Jewish identity, continuity, and community in an informal and enjoyable atmosphere.  We strive to “think deeply” about the nature of the Israel experience in an important Jewish educational institution.  We do this by enhancing Jewish learning & creating meaningful cultural activities through important daily rituals and traditions, including

• Shabbat
• Singing and Dancing
• Ruach (spirit)
• Judaica/Jewish Art
• Usage of Hebrew words in daily schedule, activities and programs
• Prayer
  
• Kesher (connection) to Israel (Israel Education and Culture)

Living Jewishly at EKC encompasses the welcoming tradition of hachnasat orchim, inclusive of children of all backgrounds.   Values rooted in our Jewish heritage set the tone for daily life at camp which will shape a Jewish vision for the camp that inspires children, staff, parents and alumni.  Understanding Jewish values will offer our campers and staff the opportunity to live better lives and have stronger Jewish identities.  Examples of the values we instill are kovod (respect), derekh eretz (appropriate behavior) rachmanut (compassion) and tzedakah & gemilut chasadim (righteousness and acts of loving kindness). 

The camp community welcomes Shabbat with spirit and song and Israeli schlichim (emissaries) help campers build a connection to the people and land of Israel.   Last year, EKC became the first overnight camp in the JCC movement to develop a foundational leadership and experiential Israel seminar for all EKC Counselors in Training, and our goal is for every staff member at Emma Kaufmann Camp to have had a significant Israel experience.