Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Home Away From Home Summer Experience
Camp Young Judaea Midwest has been creating transformative summer experiences since 1969. Our mission focuses on individualized camper development while fostering group collaboration rooted in mutual respect, leadership, and personal growth. We maintain a pluralistic environment where campers and staff explore Jewish identity, deepen Israel connections, and make informed choices about their heritage. Our inclusive community welcomes participants of all backgrounds, races, gender identities, and sexual orientations. Situated on 80 acres of Lake Stratton's shoreline in Wisconsin, our facility features gravel pathways connecting activity areas.We prioritize accessibility and encourage families to consult with us about navigation needs. With a diverse staff including Israeli emissaries, we create meaningful connections between generations of campers and counselors. Our programming balances structured activities with free exploration, ensuring each child discovers their unique potential. The camp's legacy of building lifelong friendships and Jewish community leaders continues through our commitment to tikun olam (world repair).
Services
Summer Camp Programs
Staff Training
Virtual Programming
Alumni Engagement
Fundraising Events
Community Outreach
Israel Education
Leadership Development
Family Camp Experiences
Accessibility Consultation
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We've specialized in Jewish summer programming since 1969
- Our pluralistic approach respects diverse Jewish identities
- Inclusive environment welcoming all backgrounds and identities
- Experienced staff includes Israeli emissaries and veteran counselors
- Beautiful 80-acre Wisconsin lakeside facility with modern amenities
What people say
Home away from home
Lifelong friendships formed
Best version of themselves
Meaningful Jewish connections
Skilled international staff
Services
Summer Camp Programs
Our immersive summer programs combine Jewish education with outdoor adventure for ages 7-18. Campers develop leadership skills while exploring Jewish identity through pluralistic programming. The Wisconsin lakeside setting offers water sports, arts, and team-building activities.
Staff Training
We train counselors in child development, Jewish education, and outdoor safety. Our program develops leadership skills through mentorship and practical experience. Staff gain expertise in creating inclusive environments for diverse camper populations.
Virtual Programming
Year-round virtual programs maintain community connections through Jewish learning and cultural activities. Our digital platform offers holiday celebrations, educational workshops, and interactive events for all ages.
Alumni Engagement
We maintain lifelong connections with over 50 years of alumni through events and networking opportunities. Our graduate community shares experiences and supports current campers through mentorship programs.
Fundraising Events
Annual fundraising initiatives sustain our programs through community donations and corporate partnerships. Events include tribute dinners and targeted campaigns that directly support camper scholarships and facility improvements.
People
Dan Ravitch
Camp Director
Dan leads Camp Young Judaea Midwest with over 20 years of experience in Jewish education and youth programming. He develops strategic initiatives that strengthen Jewish identity and community building. Dan oversees staff training and camper experience programs.
Questions
What makes CYJ Midwest unique?
Our combination of Jewish education, Israeli cultural exchange, and outdoor adventure creates a distinctive experience. The pluralistic environment respects diverse backgrounds while building Jewish community.
How do you support different Jewish identities?
We offer multiple prayer options and Jewish learning tracks that respect varying levels of observance. Our staff includes educators from diverse Jewish backgrounds to support individual exploration.
What activities are available?
Campers choose from water sports, arts, sports, and adventure activities including climbing walls and challenge courses. Evening programs feature themed events and community-building activities.
How can I donate?
Donate through our website, Amazon Smile, or mail checks to our Chicago office. We offer tribute donations and corporate matching gift programs for increased impact.
How do you ensure accessibility?
Our facility features gravel pathways connecting activity areas. We work individually with families to accommodate mobility needs and ensure full participation.
Reviews (1)
Corey Stern
Jul 06, 2020
Report
I sent both my kids to CYJ for over 4 years and they both loved. They enjoyed the activities and meeting new friends each year. They learned about life in ways that would not be possible if they stayed home. Also, the kids became more independent after each year at camp. The entire organization showed that they cared about the kids safety and enjoyment from the very beginning to the end.
