At Camp Coleman, our values aren’t just something we talk about—they’re something we live every day. On Yom Kehillah, campers spent the day bringing our core values of Shalom (Peace), Kavod (Respect), Kehillah (Community), and Chesed (Kindness) to life through meaningful service projects, learning opportunities, acts of gratitude, and community celebration.
The day began with campers gathering to explore how Jewish values can guide the way we care for one another and the world around us. From there, campers spread out across camp to participate in projects that strengthened both our community and our beloved home away from home. Many campers took part in beautification projects around camp, helping refresh the Hillman area, spread new mulch and soil, care for garden spaces, and clean plaques throughout camp. These projects reflected the value of Kavod (Respect), honoring the spaces that have welcomed generations of campers and continue to make Camp Coleman feel like home. Others focused on acts of kindness, gratitude, and encouragement. Some campers created welcome-back-to-school cards for campers who attend Camp Jenny, filling them with colorful artwork, uplifting messages, and words of support. Others wrote heartfelt thank-you cards to their parents, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to spend their summers at Camp Coleman and for the experiences, friendships, and memories that camp makes possible. Together, these projects embodied Chesed (Kindness), reminding us that simple acts of gratitude and encouragement can make a meaningful impact and strengthen the connections that make our community so special.
Throughout the day, campers also had the opportunity to learn from special guests who inspire others through service. Representatives from United Hatzalah shared stories about their lifesaving work and the importance of stepping up to help others in times of need. Campers also engaged with Repair the World, exploring how acts of service can create meaningful change in communities both locally and globally. As campers worked side by side, they experienced the true meaning of Kehillah (Community). Whether planting in the garden, caring for camp’s shared spaces, writing letters of appreciation, or learning how they can make a difference in the world, every camper contributed to something bigger than themselves.
After a morning dedicated to service, learning, and giving back, it was time to celebrate all that had been accomplished. The afternoon kicked off with the return of the beloved Machon Circus, planned and facilitated by our oldest camper unit, Machon. As campers entered the Brody, they were greeted by a space transformed into a colorful carnival of excitement. Laughter echoed throughout the building as campers raced through inflatable obstacle courses, tested their skills at circus arts and balancing challenges, and decorated cookies with friends. One of the biggest attractions of the afternoon was the opportunity to pie counselors and staff members in the face with shaving cream, creating plenty of hilarious moments that had campers and counselors laughing side by side. Throughout the event, Machon campers proudly ran each station, bringing energy, creativity, and leadership to an experience that delighted campers of every age.
The fun continued on the Lower Athletic Field, where campers embraced the sunshine and cooled off after an action-packed morning. The slip-and-slide quickly became a favorite destination as campers raced across the water, cheering each other on with every splash. Nearby, spirited games of Gaga kept campers on their toes, while soccer balls flew across the field and frisbees soared through the air. Friends gathered together to play, laugh, and enjoy the simple magic of a summer afternoon at Camp Coleman. No matter where you looked, campers were fully immersed in the joy of being together.
As the day came to a close, there was a special feeling throughout camp—a sense of accomplishment, connection, and pride. Yom Kehillah wasn’t just about the projects completed or the fun activities enjoyed. It was about coming together as a community to care for our home away from home, show gratitude to those who support us, learn from inspiring organizations, and celebrate alongside friends.
Perhaps most importantly, Yom Kehillah fostered a sense of Shalom (Peace)—a feeling of harmony, connection, and shared purpose. Through every service project, every shared laugh, and every moment of teamwork, campers brought Camp Coleman’s values of Shalom, Kavod, Kehillah, and Chesed to life. It was a day filled with purpose, joy, and meaningful connection—a true reflection of the Camp Coleman community and a reminder that when we work together, learn together, and celebrate together, we create something truly special.
