Request info package
For children who have experienced displacement, uncertainty, and the ongoing impact of conflict, summer camp can offer something incredibly meaningful: the chance to simply be a kid again.
For several summers, Camp Zeke has welcomed children and teens from communities across Israel that have been deeply affected by the events of October 7 and the ongoing conflict. For a few precious weeks, they swim, dance, cook, sing, play sports, make friends, celebrate Shabbat, and experience the simple joy of being part of a community.
At camp, uncertainty can give way to laughter. Isolation can become connection. And children who have had to cope with far more than any child should can have the opportunity to play, explore, make friends, and enjoy being themselves.
For many of these children, camp is about much more than a summer vacation. It provides a sense of normalcy, belonging, friendship, and joy during a time when those things can be difficult to find.
As one parent shared:
“The camp allowed my son to be a child again—to laugh, to play, and to enjoy life—basic experiences that every child deserves.”
Another parent told us:
“It was the highlight of their summer, and a bright moment in a tough and emotionally draining year.”
And another wrote:
“Camp Zeke gave them moments of joy, connection, and healing—things they desperately needed.”
The children we welcome come from communities that have experienced tremendous disruption and uncertainty. Many have been displaced from their homes, separated from friends and familiar routines, and have lived through experiences no child should have to endure.
While circumstances continue to change, the need for community, connection, and joyful childhood experiences remains.
That is why we are committed to continuing this program and welcoming children who can benefit from time at Camp Zeke.
Here, they can swim in the lake, cheer on their friends, try something new, sing around a campfire, celebrate Shabbat, and build friendships that can last a lifetime.
For a few weeks, they can step away from the uncertainty around them and enjoy the freedom, friendship, and fun of camp.
They can just be kids.
Every child deserves the opportunity to experience the joy, friendship, and sense of belonging that summer camp can provide.
Your support helps make it possible for more children and teens from communities affected by conflict to experience Camp Zeke—to find connection, community, confidence, and a little bit of normalcy during a difficult time.
Together, we can give children something they deserve: a summer filled with friendship, joy, laughter, and the freedom to just be kids.
We are deeply grateful to have generous returning support from UJA-Federation of New York, Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ, the Give Camp Fund, and a growing network of committed Camp Zeke families and friends. Their partnership is helping to lay the foundation for another unforgettable summer.
But we cannot do it without you. This is your opportunity to have a direct impact on a teen’s life.
If you’d like to discuss this campaign and how you can make a difference, you can reach our founders directly by emailing lisa.and.isaac@campzeke.org or calling 212-913-9783.
Your generosity offers stability in a time of uncertainty. It gives children who have faced fear and displacement the chance to experience joy, connection, and the magic of Camp Zeke. And it reminds these Israeli families that they are not alone—that the Camp Zeke community stands beside them with care and support.
