A Message from the Executive Director
Since its founding, Camp Ramah in the Poconos has remained steadfast in its mission: creating lifelong Jewish connections, one happy camper at a time. An environment shaped by intention and joy, Ramah has immersed generations of Jewish youth in fun, meaningful experiences that instill pride, passion, and a lasting commitment to Jewish life. It is a place where Jewish values are lived, Israel is cherished, and lifelong friendships are forged.
For more than 75 years, Ramah has also served as a catalyst for Jewish leadership. Our alumni lead in education, community service, and synagogue life, bringing the spirit and values of camp into their homes and communities.
Just over one year ago, our senior team, board of directors, and stakeholders came together to begin the work of implementing a bold, forward-thinking strategic plan that honors our proud legacy, while charting a course for a vibrant and sustainable future. Our mission remains steadfast as we clarified the vision and values that guide our organization in this pivotal time.
As we look past this milestone year, our focus areas include:
- Strengthening Jewish educational content and programming
- Expanding accessibility and affordability
- Modernizing and enhancing our facilities
- Launching a Major Gifts Campaign to secure Ramah’s impact for generations to come
This vision—and the vibrant reality of Camp Ramah in the Poconos today—is made possible by the unwavering support of our alumni, families, and broader community. Your partnership ensures that each camper continues to thrive in an environment rooted in tradition, joy, and belonging.
In the following report, you will see how our strategic values—wellbeing (briyut), personal growth (hitkadmut ishit), acts of loving kindness (gemilut chasadim), love of Israel and the Jewish people (ahavat Yisrael), and a deep sense of community (kehillah)—were brought to life each day at Ramah, and are woven into the core of our program.
With profound gratitude for all that you have made possible—and with great anticipation for all that lies ahead—we invite you to join us in shaping Ramah’s next chapter. Together, we will ensure that Ramah continues to inspire, empower, and nurture Jewish youth m’dor l’dor, from generation to generation, for decades to come.
Enjoy this look back on 2024,
Miryam Seid
Executive Director, Camp Ramah in the Poconos and Ramah Day Camp
Table of Contents
Click below to explore how the values of our strategic plan were lived at our Day Camp, Overnight Camp, and in our Alumni community.
Personal Growth
Acts of Lovingkindness
Wellbeing
Love of Israel and Jewish Peoplehood
Community
גמילות חסדים
Personal Growth
At Camp Ramah in the Poconos, the Tikvah program helps chanichim with disabilities grow in meaningful ways. This past kayitz, chanichim found themselves reaching new milestones, both in public settings and through individual achievement. Yedidim chanichim took to the stage, finding their voices as they took on a new role in the edah play "Encanto," or leading Shabbat blessings in front of the whole machaneh for the first time. In quieter moments, they pushed themselves to try things they never thought they could do — like climbing the Etgar challenge course or living more independently in their bunk. With the right support and a strong community around them, Tikvah chanichim leave camp more confident, more connected, and proud of how far they've come. These experiences not only shape their camp journey but lay a foundation for continued personal development beyond camp.
With the addition of our Tochnit Avodah vocational education program in 2021, Yedidim chanichim have a new opportunity for growth as they graduate into a more independent living space, and new responsibilities with camp, including working in the mailroom or chadar ochel, teaching movement and dance, or leading story time. In 2024, we saw the inaugural summer of Tochnit Avodah's Yedibake program, where participants, baked and sold goods to staff out of the new Mercaz. Job coaches and staff play an integral role in providing mentorship in setting and reaching the goals of each participant.
"Before Tikvah, we struggled to find a place where our son truly belonged. Camp Ramah not only welcomed him with open arms, but also celebrated all the things that make him unique. We watched him grow into a more confident, independent young man — singing Hebrew songs, making lifelong friends, and proudly trying things we never imagined possible. Tikvah gave our son a true community."
- 2025 Yedidim Parent
גמילות חסדים
Acts of Lovingkindness
At Machane Ramah Yomi, gemilut chasadim–acts of lovingkindness–are woven into every part of our day. Whether it's cheering on a bunkmate who tackled a new skill in the pool, sitting with a new friend during lunch, or writing a Shabbat-o-gram for a fellow counselor who provided extra special support that week, it is part of the culture to celebrate the small and meaningful ways our community comes together, lifts one another up, and spreads joy. These acts and moments are what create a community of compassion and connection that lasts not only throughout the summer, but beyond.
I just wanted to drop you a line to tell you how wonderful it was for me to be at camp for the first Shabbat of the summer...the ruach, the singing, the dancing, and also the "calm". It was beautiful! Also, things have come full circle for me. It was such a treat to sit with my granddaughter and her bunkmates and see the joy in their faces as they experienced Shabbat together. She was so proud to share the dance she had learned in front of the entire camp. She has really enjoyed her first experience of "real" camp and to be at RDC is a thrill for me!!! I wish you a wonderful summer filled with lots of happy, joyful moments...that's what makes camp so special.
- RDC Grandparent, 2024
ברעות
Wellbeing
The Ramah Poconos community is powered by nearly 300 dedicated tzevet (staff) members who bring their time, talent, and deep love for camp to create meaningful experiences for every camper. Over the last few summers, it has been this organization's focus to expand the ways that we recognize and support this group as they work hard to make a lasting impact on our chanichim and camp community.
The addition of our brand-new Mercaz we were able to provide new spaces for relaxation, workouts, private calls, and of course, coffee and snacks that prioritized the experience and wellbeing of our dedicated tzevet. With that knowledge that a supported and fulfilled tzevet is essential to a successful summer for our entire community, our staff programming calendar was built to foster connection and support the variety of interests and outlets. Including wing nights, trivia competitions, Shabbat Onegs, yoga on the new lake-side platform, a silent disco and, of course ligot (our classic Ramah basketball league).
אהבת ישראל
Love of Israel and Jewish Peoplehood
A community rooted in Conservative Jewish Values and Zionism, Ramah creates a bridge that sustains lifelong connections to rich Jewish traditions as well as the Land, People, and the State of Israel. Israel education takes many forms at camp, whether it be through traditional teaching, daily conversation with our expansive and diverse group of dedicated shilichim (Israeli emissaries), or via Israel themed programming centered around relationship building.
In the aftermath of October 7th, our senior team and educators approached the summer planning with renewed energy to strive to chanichim and tzevet to the ancient history, modern realities, and cultural experiences of Israel. Our commitment to Ahavat Yisrael, a love of and connection with Israel, was solidified prior to the summer through the development of guiding principles, Ikarim, that outlined an intentional and thoughtful approach to Israel education.
Throughout the kayitz chanichim and tzevet–American and Israeli–lived together in tzrifim (bunks), providing the opportunity to learn about each other's experiences and perspectives, developing authentic relationships and entry points into the others' experience. Our Israel educators used new tools and resources, specifically the "David Cards," to open up conversations about Israel and how it feels to be Jewish in the aftermath of October 7th. Camp was the place for chanichim and tzevet to explore questions about what Israel means to them and their Jewish identity, all while surrounded with feeling of security and home.
“The entirety of our daughter’s character and confidence in her Judaism increased through the camp community. I just think it’s the one place in the world she feels entirely her best self, totally part of a community she belongs to and thrives in.”
“Our son expanded his Jewish knowledge and practices in many ways due to Camp Ramah. He loves reading Torah and now reads monthly at our home synagogue after reading at Camp Ramah. He is also tutoring Bar Mitzvah students at our synagogue and is an assistant teacher.”
“My child was able to live in an environment where she could embrace her Judaism to the fullest extent without any hesitation. It's the only place where she was not in the minority and it was so welcome after such a difficult year.”
- 2024 Camper Parents
קהילת קדושת
Our Sacred Community
Our commitment to fostering meaningful, lifelong relationships extends far beyond the summer months. Ramah is a journey that spans generations, embracing campers, staff, alumni, parents, and all who are connected to our community.
In 2024, we proudly expanded our alumni programming, deepening the bonds that last well beyond the years spent at camp. Highlights included the continuation of our beloved annual Thanksgiving gathering, our first-ever Washington, D.C.–based happy hour, and the long-awaited return of Alumni Weekend. Over 50 young alumni reunited at camp for a ruach filled Shabbat, rekindling friendships and reigniting their deep connection to Ramah and to Judaism.
“Alumni Weekend was really important for everyone to be together and make Ramah a lifelong commitment/journey. I had a fantastic time seeing everyone and it furthered my relationship with camp, reminding me how important camp has been to me and throughout my Jewish journey.”
“This was the highlight of my year, and I can't wait to come back again next summer. There is nothing better than being back in your favorite place, with your favorite people, doing all of your favorite things.”
– 2024 Alumni Weekend Attendees
The New Mercaz
Another major milestone in 2024 was the unveiling of our beautiful new Mercaz. On Visiting Day, over 1,000 parents, family members, and friends gathered to experience this new hub of camp life. Guests enjoyed tours of the facility, sipped MOKA coffee, and sampled delicious baked goods prepared by our Tochnit Avodah participants, while browsing a special selection of 75th anniversary merchandise. The day culminated in a joyous ribbon-cutting ceremony, celebrating not only the physical space but the spirit of community it represents.
Throughout the summer, the Mercaz became a vibrant gathering place, hosting programs for every member of our community and embodying our core value of kehillah — bringing people together in joy, learning, and shared purpose.
Enrollment and Staffing
In the wake of October 7th, the impact of the war in Israel and antisemitism in the United States made a profound impact on our camper and staff population. In our enrollment and hiring process, we saw a significant increase of families looking for a Jewish communal experience, a place where they could celebrate their Judaism and love for Israel, in a safe, welcoming, and zionist environment.
Kayitz 2024 marked a milestone for Camp Ramah in the Poconos. We experienced our highest number of unique camper enrollments, with a significant portion of new campers coming from Israel to seek an uplifting experience after the challenges of the past year.
Financial Overview
We completed our largest capital project to date, the Mercaz, made possible by a lead gift and strong community support. The new space opened in Kayitz 2024.
Enrollment surpassed expectations, and we awarded $350,000 in scholarships to support 215 families across both overnight and day camp.
We continued vital partnerships with the National Ramah Commission, Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, Foundation for Jewish Camp, and JCamp180, and received several generous grants this year.
With 96 members in our Legacy Society and a growing endowment, we remain focused on sustainability and long-term growth. Kayitz 2024—our 75th summer—also marked the launch of our next capital project, the Quad, funded in part by our annual Chai Campaign.
Revenue |
2024 |
2023 |
|---|---|---|
Tuition & Fees |
$5,575,898 |
$5,002,706 |
Contributions |
$1,627,575 |
$2,739,012 |
Other Revenue |
$718,287 |
$419,595 |
Expenses |
2024 |
2023 |
|---|---|---|
Programming |
$6,684,518 |
$6,132,492 |
Scholarships |
$346,813 |
$387,693 |
Fundraising |
$36,157 |
$47,562 |
Total Expenses |
$7,067,488 |
$6,567,747 |
Net Increases in Assets |
$854,272 |
$1,593,566 |
Todah Rabbah
Thank you to all those who supported the 2024 summer! From donors and partners, and to our lay and professional leadership, the successes of 2024 would not have been possible without the strength of this community, and your love for Camp Ramah in the Poconos.
The 2023 Chai Society
Todah Rabbah to our 2023 Chai Society, whose generosity supported the Kayitz 2024.
$18,000+ (G'milut Hasadim)
Heather Bogdanoff Baker and Felix Baker
Vivian and Andrew Barnett**
Dr. Amy Goldberg
Debbie Albert** and Glen Feinberg
Drs. Arthur* and Ella Feldman and the Sitchin Foundation
Donna Goldblum Haas and David I. Haas
Harold Grinspoon Foundation
Terri Hartman* and Bruce Goldberg
Rachel and Charles* Korman
Cindy and Avrum Lapin
Mary and Nathan Relles
Lauren and Matt Tanzer
$7,200+ (Avodah)
Dr. Rachel and Avi Abel
Dr. Nancy Rothbard* and Dr. Brian Bushee
Rabbi Gary and Laya Charlestein
David and Pearl Graub Goldstein and Family
Marlene and Jonathon Graub
Emily and Michael Landsburg
Eve Coulson and Nelson Obus
Hila Reichman and Josh Podietz***
Dr. Gerald and Nancy Reed
Ali and Lee Sussman and Family
Diane and Michael* Wachs and Family
$3,600+ (Torah)
Dr. Beth Etra and Jonathan Adler*
Rachel Gross* and H.P. Baker
Estate of Aaron Jack Belitsky
Abigail and Reuben Berman
Amy Brewstein
Sara Bucholtz*
Drs. Sherri* and Daniel Cohen
Debra and Harris Devor
Door-va-Door Trucking, LLC
Julie and Daniel Fein
Dr. Leonard and Judy Galler
Rachel and Jeremy Goldberg
Rob Grimm Diane and Gary Katz
Michael and Julie Lippmann
Joyce and Frank Podietz
Susan Sherr-Seitz and Brett Seitz
Rifki Zable and Jonathan Slonim
Susan Ganz and Howard Sugarman
Jessalyn Zeigler
$1,800+
Seyna and Larry Abel
Rachael and Joshua Abrams
Nona Abrams
Suzanne and James Aisenberg
Flossie Albert, z"l
Tami and David Astorino
Daniella and Matan Barnea
Jeremy Barnett
Dr. Arnold and Susan Baskies
Dr. Michael and Risa Baskies
Julia Sivitz and Matthew Bieber
Dr. Norma Blecker and David Blecker
Drs. Carole and Bruce Bogdanoff
Dr. Harvey and Joan Bucholtz
Judy and Jerry Caplan
Harriet and Mark Chertok
Karly Forman* and Elijah Cohen
Hannah S. and Samuel A. Cohn Memorial Foundation
Dr. Jesse and Mindy Civan
Bruce Engleman and Dr. Jo Ann Chalal Engleman
Deborah-Jo Essrog and Jay A. Dorsch
Dr. Steven and Anne Fassler
Dr. Sidney and Ellen Friedman
Abbey and David Gancz
Beth Gansky
The Garten Family
Ilene and Jonathan Gershen
Judy and David Gilberg
Dr. Gretchen Glaser and Simon Glaser
Michal Wachs and Daniel Gold
Peggy and Louis Gold
Micaela and Rick* Gold
Sandra and Michael Goldberg
Drs. Heidi and Jeffrey Gordon
Rabbi Josh and Elissa* Gruenberg
Liz and Harris Gubin, c/o The Katz Family Charitable Trust
Marci and Robert Hackel
Arnie Harris
Judith and Roger Hess
Anne and Aaron Hoffnung
Staci and Richard Julie
Rabbi Michael and Fran Katz
Santina Zanelli and Dr. David Kaufman
Leah Rosen and Peter Konwerski
Heather and Mark Kramer
Rabbi Aaron* and Helene Krupnick
Sandy Levin Sharon and Jonathan Levin
Rabbi Alan and Edy Lucas
Dr. Bruce and Shelley Menkowitz
Ivy and David Mermelstein
Roe and Don Miller
Rachel Zivic and Rabbi Micah Peltz
Missy* and Josh Present
Amy and Ben Relles
Tina and Michael Rettig
Jamie and Jesse Richman
Dr. Reuben and Diane Romirowsky
Susan and Eric Schwartzman
Miryam and Adam Seid
Rabbi Joel and Eliana Seltzer
Stacy and Matthew Seltzer
Susie and Ken Shear
The Skier Foundation
Susan Birenbaum Stone and Richard Stone
Elanah and Stewart* Uretsky
Sarah and Jeff Vogel
Jenifer and Martin Wachs
Ivy and Joshua* Weingram
Joan Wohl
Rabbi Lisa Malik and Dr. Abraham Wyner
Rabbi Eric and Dava Yanoff
Robin and Greg Zappin
Violet Zeitlin
Daniella Gold and Jonathan Zimmerman
*Member, Board of Directors
**Current or Immediate Past President, Board of Directors
*** Chairs, 2022 Annual Chai Campaign
Endowments
Endowments ensure that Camp Ramah in the Poconos and all of its programs can continue far and long after our lives and benefit generation in perpetuity. We are excited to share the establishment of the new Joel Seltzer Endowment this past year.
See all the endowments hereThe Legacy Society
Members of the Ramah Moreshet Legacy Society ensure the future of Camp Ramah in the Poconos and Ramah Day Camp by making a commitment in their estate plan to contribute to Camp Ramah's permanent endowment.
See our Legacy Society Members HereBoard of Directors
Jon Adler
Debbie Albert
Andrew Barnett Board President
Sara Bucholtz
Dr. Sherri Cohen
Karly Forman Cohen
Rick Gold
Elissa Gruenberg
Rachel Gross
Terri Hartman
Rabbi Aaron Krupnick
Dr. Charlie Korman
Josh Podietz
Missy Present
Dr. Nancy Rothbard
Sue Sherr-Seitz
Lauren Tanzer
Stewart Uretsky
Josh Weingram
Michael Wachs
Year Round Team
Miryam Seid Executive Director
Rachael Abrams Director, Overnight
Amy Shulz Director, Day Camp
Benjy Goldberg Director of Operations & Retreats
Tobi Afran Assistant Director, Overnight
Karyn (Haika) Salkin Assistant Director, Day Camp
Stephanie Amarnick Director of Advancement
Zack Walker Director of Finance
Orlee Krass Tikvah Director
Noah Averick Staff Experience Associate
Rachael Besser Camper Care Coordinator
Diana Epstein Development & Alumni Associate
Leanne Kaganovsky Enrollment & Engagement Associate
Alexis Lubianetsky Database & HR Associate
Yoni Shear Director of Jewish Education & T’Fillah
Deb Srulevich Office Manager
Jordanna Zimmer Ufberg Communications Associate
Sue Schwartzman Director of Medical Center
Adam Ehrlich Medical Director
Sherri Cohen, MD Medical Director, Day Camp
Harriet Caplan Head Nurse