A Wellspring program
“I really liked the sources we used and I plan to bring them to camp. I also liked the idea of first starting with conversations about our relationships with Israel and peoplehood before even talking about conflict. Since most campers have no real education on the conflict or Israeli politics, it never made sense to me why we should subject them to debates and such when they have no true background.” – Leadership Seminar Participant
Summer 2024 is just around the corner. Camps are hiring staff and making plans to create another fun and joyous summer. At the same time, camps are navigating how best to meet this challenging moment and educate about Israel in a supportive way with their counselors and campers. We invite camp directors to nominate senior counselors and camp educators to the Leadership Seminar for Camp Staff at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem.
The Leadership Seminar for Camp Staff offers participants an intensive learning and leadership program with Hartman faculty in a pluralistic environment, rooted in the Hartman iEngage curriculum. The week-long seminar in Jerusalem will integrate learning about Israel with exploring Jewish identity, and help counselors navigate their own questions about Israel and Jewish peoplehood.
In addition to faculty-led learning, the seminar will include hevruta study, tiyul-based learning, and time for participants to reflect on applying what they learn to their camp setting. The program welcomes participants of all Jewish backgrounds and learning levels. Participants will gain confidence, inspiration, and ideas for planning and leading conversations and learning experiences at their camp related to Israel and Jewish peoplehood.
When and where is the program?
The program runs from May 16-22, 2024 at the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem.
Who should camp directors nominate for the program?
Directors should nominate 19-25 year old counselors, unit heads, shlichim, or camp educators who will play a key role in Israel education at your camp.
How many participants may camp directors nominate for the program?
Each camp should expect to send one participant. Program size will be around forty participants total. If a camp would like to send more than one participant, they should contact Jonathan Golden, Director of Wellspring Leadership Initiatives.
I am thinking of an outstanding counselor/staff member. How should I nominate them?
Contact Jonathan Golden, Director of Wellspring Leadership Initiatives, and he can guide you through the next steps.
What are examples of the content and modes of learning that happens in the program?
In this program, we will explore Hartman Torah lenses such as “Power and Vulnerability” and “Being and Becoming” to guide Israel education in the aftermath of October 7th. Other classes are developed based upon the Hartman iEngage curriculum and focus on themes that include “The Israel We Imagine,” “Israel as a Jewish Story,” and “The Possibilities of Jewish Peoplehood.”
In addition to discussions and text study, the program will include experiential learning such as a cooking class, graffiti tour in Tel Aviv, and neighborhood tours in Jerusalem.
How will Shabbat work during the program?
Participants will have the opportunity to have a shared Shabbat experience with other program participants or coordinate an experience in partnership with their camp. For more details, please contact Jonathan Golden, Director of Wellspring Leadership Initiatives, at [email protected].
What are the costs of the program?
Hartman will cover on-the-ground costs, including hotels, food, and trips. Hartman will also provide a travel reimbursement based on the location of the counselor, ranging from $850 from east coast locations to $1100 from west coast locations. Additional financial assistance is available on a case-by-case basis.
Will the program run in Israel?
As of this time, we are planning to run this program in Israel. If that changes at any point, we will send you updated information.
Who should I contact with questions?
If you have any additional questions, please contact Jonathan Golden, Director of Wellspring Leadership Initiatives, at [email protected].
