Q? WHAT IS YOUR CAMPER/COUNSELOR RATIO?
A. We strive to provide the best possible experience for your child. We carefully recruit and screen to cultivate the most adept counselor staff possible. We have a 5:1 camper to counselor ratio. Mini Gan Izzy has 4:1 camper to counselor ratio. This allows us to create a meaningful experience and maximize the time campers get to spend with their role models in small groups.
Q? HOW DO YOU ACCOMMODATE CHILDREN WITH ALLERGIES?
A. The safety of your children is our first priority. We need to know any allergies your child has. Please provide these details on your application and be as specific as possible with the information to allow us to be as prepared as possible to accommodate your camper’s allergy.
If your child has gluten allergies please indicate this in your camp application, or call the camp office to let us know. Parents are required to pack gluten free lunches and snacks. In addition, kindly provide camp with microwave so your child can eat a hot meal.
Q? DO YOU ALLOW IPODS, CELL PHONES OR IPADS?
A. Kids spend on average 20 hours a week in front of an electronic screen. We believe in teaching kids how to be extraordinary without being tied to electronic screens, so we do not allow iPods, ipads, cell phones, or video games. However, on Wednesday – trip days, camera’s are allowed to be brought to camp.
This policy gives children the gift of a technology free environment — a place where campers, counselors and directors are fully present with each other, transporting them to a place where we can forge relationships that last a lifetime.
Q? HOW OFTEN DOES MY CHILD DRINK WATER AT CAMP EACH DAY?
A. Parents are advised to send a water bottle with their campers every day. There are water fountains/coolers in every camp area for campers to refill their own water bottle. Campers are encouraged and reminded to drink throughout the day.
Q? WHAT DOES MY CAMPER NEED TO BRING EACH DAY?
A. Campers only need a bathing suit, sunscreen and towel each day, regardless of the weather. We supply all sports equipment, lunch and snacks. Please apply sunscreen at home.
Q? CAN MY CAMPER BRING A PRECIOUS ITEM TO CAMP?
A. We do not permit your camper to bring jewelry, expensive toys, etc. to camp. Camp Gan Israel supplies everything campers may need.
Q? HOW RELIGIOUS IS CAMP GAN ISRAEL?
A. CGI is a totally non-judgemental environment made up of campers from all Jewish backgrounds. An individual’s level of observance is not stressed. All children enjoy a shared Jewish spirit through songs and projects.
Q? WHAT IS THE FASTEST WAY TO REACH THE DIRECTOR?
A. The quickest way to reach the director is by emailing Rabbi Mendy Katzman at [email protected]. During the camp day, you can call the office. During the off summer season, he can be reached at 718-370-8953.
Q? MUST CAMPERS WEAR A CAMP T-SHIRT EVERY DAY?
A. No, we don’t require that campers wear a Camp Gan Israel T-Shirt each day. However, we do require campers to wear a camp T-shirt on trip days (Wednesday.) Camp shirts are available for purchase through the camp office. Since all camp staff and campers wear camp shirts, we are instantly recognizable to each other. While on field trips camp shirts distinguish our campers and staff from other visitors. Camp shirts will be available for purchase before the start of camp.
Q? HOW DOES MY CAMPER FIND A LOST ITEM?
A. Please mark all belongings with your camper’s name and group. This is very important since shirts, backpacks, etc. are identical and individual items are difficult to identify without a label. Lost & Found items are available each day in the office. Please contact us in writing or by phone regarding specific items.
Q? HOW DOES THE TRIP DAY - TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM WORK?
A. Camp Gan Israel uses modern buses from a local Bus Company. Campers must remain seated at all times. Seat belts are provided and their use is mandatory at all times.
Q? HOW DO I ARRANGE TO PICK UP MY CAMPER DURING THE CAMP DAY?
A. If you have to pick up your camper during the day, please notify our office. Once we are aware of your arrival time, we can arrange to have your camper ready for you. Please note that no camper will be released to ANYONE without written permission.
Q? WHAT IF MY CHILD DOES NOT WANT TO PARTICIPATE IN A PARTICULAR ACTIVITY?
A. No camper will be forced to participate in any activity. However, we do urge campers to try all activities and take advantage of the complete program offered at Camp Gan Israel.
