Planting the Seeds for an Unforgettable Summer

Dear Tel Yehudah Community,

As Tu B’Shevat approaches, I find myself reflecting deeply on the meaning of growth, renewal, and resilience—not just in nature, but in our own lives and in the world around us.

I recently returned from Israel, where I experienced this moment of renewal firsthand. It was a visit filled with contradictions—hope and heartbreak, despair and determination. I attended a Tu B’Shevat gathering on the moshav where I lived over 40 years ago on Young Judaea Year Course. I watched children planting trees, taking part in a tradition that has long symbolized investing in the future, even when the present is uncertain. I also saw these same children painting yellow rocks in honor of the hostages still held in captivity—just as the world was witnessing the release of three hostages, returned in unimaginable condition.

I also had the opportunity to visit Netiv Ha’asara, a moshav on the Gaza border that was devastated on October 7th. Last summer, we were fortunate to welcome 26 chanichim from the moshav to TY, forging deep and meaningful connections between them and our broader community. I am heartened to share that 30 teens from Netiv Ha’asara hope to join us at TY this summer—and with your help, we will make it happen.

This moment we are in—so full of both pain and purpose—feels deeply connected to the time we are in at Tel Yehudah. We are planting, building, and preparing for a new season. Like the trees in Israel, whose roots stretch deeper as they prepare to bloom, we are in a time of intense preparation—hiring incredible staff, designing transformative programs, and ensuring that this summer at TY will be an experience of growth, connection, and renewal for our chanichim and tzevet.

With that spirit of planting for the future, we are thrilled to share with you our February edition of BaMachaneh, filled with exciting updates about the unforgettable summer ahead:

🌿 New & Innovative Second Session Programs – This summer, we are launching fresh opportunities for teens to explore, learn, and lead at TY. Even better? You may be eligible for a $2,000 RootOne voucher toward these unique programs!

🛠 Toranut at TY in May – Help Us Get Camp Ready! – This spring, we’re inviting anyone who wants to come help us prepare for the summer! Join us in May to be part of Toranut in the Hadar Ochel and around camp, ensuring that everything is in place for an incredible season ahead.

🎶 A New Shiron Honoring Yuval Halivni z”l – This summer, our Shira Shketa sessions will feature a new shiron, dedicated in memory of Yuval Halivni, who was tragically killed following October 7th. Yuval’s love of music and community will live on through the songs we sing together.

📢 From Our Camp Director, Noah Gallagher – Hear directly from Noah Gallagher as he shares his vision for the summer, the exciting plans underway, and what’s in store for our campers and staff.

📬 Get Cool New TY Cards! – Stay connected with your friends and family by sending them exclusive TY postcards this summer—designed just for our community!

🏕 The Road to 100: Our Long-Term Vision – As we continue building toward Tel Yehudah’s 100th summer, learn about the exciting plans and investments shaping our camp’s future for generations to come.

As we celebrate Tu B’Shevat this year, let’s embrace this season of renewal—knowing that the seeds we plant now, in Israel, at TY, and in our own lives, will grow into something beautiful.

Chag Sameach, and see you at camp!

David Weinstein
Executive Director, Camp Tel Yehudah