Blogging from Brooklyn

Bobbee and I have been visiting friends and family in Brooklyn this weekend as we prepare for our second Incubator Workshop in Teaneck this week. We thought we'd share some of the materials that we'll be presenting to the Foundation for Jewish Camp. We'd love to hear your thoughts and suggestions on the following:

MISSION

Teva Treks challenges teenagers to increase their self-confidence, independence, and sense of adventure, while building a strong Jewish community focused on environmental awareness and outdoor living.

VISION

Over the next five years, Teva Treks will quickly grow from 50 campers in its inaugural summer, to 200 campers in its fourth summer. These teens will see the value in a multi-summer experience. As they return year after year, they will show increased self-confidence, independence, connection to Judaism, and environmental awareness. The community of Teva Treks alumni will be strong and active; campers and staff will continue their relationships both formally and informally throughout the year. Teva Treks campers will begin each summer at a base camp outside of Atlanta. In the first summer, treks will be offered to Northeast Georgia and to Moab. New treks and activities will be added each summer as we grow. As Teva Treks succeeds in the Southeast, it will look to expand and duplicate its program in other parts of the country.

CORE JEWISH VALUES: As a result of their experience, campers and staff will learn the following values:

• Jewish Peoplehood (Am Yisrael): We are connected to all Jews across time and space with a familial bond based on shared heritage, history, language, rituals, and culture.
• Communal Responsibility (Kol Yisrael Aravim Zeh B’zeh): We have a responsibility to take care of each other and Jews everywhere.
• Spirituality (Ruach v’kavannah): We experience awe, wonder, and amazement in that which is greater than ourselves through the exploration of faith, belief, and life's 'big' questions.
• Guardianship of the Earth (Shomrei Adamah): We have a special responsibility to take care of the earth.

SPECIALTY SKILLS: As a result of their experience, campers and staff will gain the following skills:

• Rock climbing & Mountain biking: Personal challenges lead to self-confidence and independence.
• Whitewater rafting, Tandem canoeing, & Hiking: Group challenges lead to teamwork, friendships, and a strong community.
• Outdoor communal living: Living outdoors teaches us to push beyond our comfort zone.