June 12, 2026
Camp. It’s Experiential. Relational. Deeply lasting.
As someone who had the privilege of serving as a Children, Youth, and Camp Director early in my career at the Tucson JCC, I learned firsthand the extraordinary power of camp. I saw the friendships it sparked. The confidence it built. The sense of belonging it created. Camp is never just a summer activity. It is sacred space where community is formed across a spectrum of identities.
What became especially clear to me is that camp is one of the most powerful environments for identity formation. Through informal education, morning circle, arts, Jewish culture, and Shabbat, children begin exploring who they are and who they are becoming. They try on leadership. Wrestle with values. Discover their place in a larger story. It is learning in its most human form. Experiential. Relational. Deeply lasting.
In just a couple of weeks, we will once again open that sacred space for children and families here at Jewish Long Beach. We will welcome nearly 170 campers each week along with 50 counselors and staff who will help make this summer unforgettable.
At a time when so many young people feel isolated or disconnected, camp creates a place to belong. A place where every child has the opportunity to build friendships that can last a lifetime.
For many of us, camp was where Jewish life came alive. It was where Shabbat songs felt a little louder. Where Jewish values were lived rather than simply taught. Where Jewish identity was strengthened through joy, friendship, and shared experience. For our children today, camp remains one of the strongest gateways into living Jewishly.
This summer, we are also honored to welcome Shani Ben Harrous, our shlicha (youth cultural ambassador) from Israel. She brings with her the ruach (spirit) of Israel, connecting Long Beach to Israel and to the global Jewish people.
“I’m super energetic and always looking for my next adventure. I love meeting new people, and I am beyond excited for camp and can’t wait to meet your community and create an unforgettable summer for everyone!”
Shani, 2026 Camp Komaroff Shlicha
As we enter Shabbat, I ask for your help. Help us fund the Jewish identity-building experiences that make Camp Komaroff so meaningful. Help us provide scholarships so that every child has the opportunity to participate regardless of financial circumstances. Your generosity creates moments of belonging. It strengthens Jewish identity. It invests in the future of our community, one camper at a time. Click here to give today.
May it be a summer of fun and friendships to last a lifetime.
Shabbat Shalom,
Erik Ludwig, PhD
Chief Executive Officer