690 Campers and a Whole Lot of Coffee Cake: Why This Summer’s More Than Just Big Numbers

We’re entering Summer 2025 with the largest enrollment in CYJ history—690 campers! That’s more than we had in 2022 when we ran two Segels. So yes, it’s going to be full. It’s going to be loud. And it’s going to be unforgettable.

Now, while we’re thrilled about the record numbers and all the campers who will be swimming, singing, and somehow losing three water bottles before day five—let’s not forget what really makes camp magical.

Everyone knows the real magic of camp isn’t just the pool, the ruach (camp spirit), or how mysteriously fast lost-and-found grows. It’s the relationships. The deep camper friendships that form during bunk nights and whispered convos after lights out—and yes—the beautifully chaotic, often hilarious, always life-altering bonds. Camp success? 80% relationships, 20% coffee cake.

We spend a lot of time celebrating how GREAT camp is for the campers (and it absolutely is!). They grow, they laugh, they do things their parents wouldn’t believe without photographic evidence. But what about the Tzevet (staff)? You know, those young adults who lead programs, settle bunk disputes like tiny UN diplomats, and somehow have more energy on day 30 than day 3?

Let’s be honest—our staff is at that magical age where they’re still deciding who they want to be, and camp sneaks in like a values ninja. Camp doesn’t just shape kids—it transforms young adults. They arrive with duffels full of sunscreen and leave with a stronger sense of purpose, identity, and maybe a few extra pairs of someone else’s socks.

And sure, we’ve had 15–20 CYJ weddings over the years, but the real legacy? It’s watching our staff evolve into thoughtful leaders—people who care more about mission than money, who value the process over just the outcome, and who think deeply about how to make the world just a little bit better, even if their current job is refereeing a gaga game with ever-changing rules.

Staff don’t just see themselves as glorified babysitters or tie-dye technicians—they see themselves as educators, changemakers, people thinking about the future of the Jewish people while making up ridiculous cheers for Maccabiah and trying to remember which laundry bag is theirs. I’m proud. Not just of one person, but of every single Tzevet member who comes to camp for a summer and ends up walking away with a new lens on life, a deeper connection to community, and yes—an unexplainable craving for coffee cake year-round.

Can’t wait for the Summer to start,

Frank the Tank