Hila Reichman and Josh Podietz (Gesher '92)

In the summer of 1986, I received my first Bracha B’Ramah. I had never been away from home, and arrived at Camp not knowing anyone. Thanks to an amazing bunk mate who taught me everything I needed to know, Camp became a place I called home all the way through Gesher, Seminar in Israel, and two years as a tzevet (staff) member.

Through the years, I experienced many Ramah blessings. Looking back, I now know that it was Ramah that instilled my strong love for and connection to Israel. It was Ramah that taught me how to be comfortable davening kiyachid (alone) or biyachad (together). And it was Ramah that taught me the importance of living a meaningful Jewish life as an example to others.

In 2003, I met my future wife, Hila Reichman, in Philadelphia. Though she had not experienced Ramah herself, Hila could tell what a formative experience it had been for me, and was excited to send our two boys, Oren (Gesher ‘25) and Ilan (Gesher ‘27), to Ramah Poconos. It is incredible to see how they have found a home in Lakewood. The stories they tell, the songs they sing, and the skills they learn have helped to shape them into young Jewish leaders focused on Tzedakah, Community, Israel, and their own Jewish identity.

Our blessing for Camp Ramah in the Poconos and the Day Camp is to continue to thrive, be a long-lasting and sustainable part of our communal kehillah (Community) for generations, and provide an amazing environment for our children to learn, grow, and go from strength to strength.

Please join us and make a generous donation to the 2023 Chai Campaign. In doing so, you will be providing an opportunity for even more Brachot B’Ramah.

- Hila Reichman and Josh Podietz (Gesher '92)