Have some more questions? Check out our FAQ page to get some answers.
How does my camper find a lost item?
How do I arrange to pick up my camper during the camp day?
Can my camper bring a precious item to camp?
What if my child does not want to participate in a particular activity?
How religious is Camp Gan Israel?
What does my camper need to bring each day?
How often does my child drink water at camp each day?
How can I speak with my child's counselor?
How can I speak with a Camp Director?
Are we obligated to give a tip or gift to our child's counselor?
How can I become more involved with Camp Gan Israel?
When must a camper wear a camp t-shirt?
How much time do the campers spend outdoors?
How does my camper find a lost item?
Please mark all belongings with your camper's name and group. This is very important since shirts, backpacks, etc. are identical and individual items are difficult to identify without a label. Lost & Found items are available each day at pickup, outside on a table. Please contact us in writing or by phone regarding specific items.
How do I arrange to pick up my camper during the camp day?
If you have to pick up your camper during the day, please notify our office. Once we are aware of your arrival time, we can arrange to have your camper ready for you. Please note that no camper will be released to ANYONE without written permission.
Can my camper bring a precious item to camp?
We do not permit your camper to bring jewelry, phones or ipads, expensive toys, etc. to camp. Camp Gan Israel supplies everything campers may need.
What if my child does not want to participate in a particular activity?
No camper will be forced to participate in any activity. However, we do urge campers to try all activities and take advantage of the complete program offered at Camp Gan Israel. If any child does not want to participate, the parents and counselors must discuss a plan of action.
How religious is Camp Gan Israel?
CGI is a totally non-judgmental environment made up of campers from all Jewish backgrounds. An individual’s level of observance is not stressed. All children enjoy a shared Jewish spirit through songs and projects.
What does my camper need to bring each day?
Campers only need a bathing suit and towel each day, regardless of the weather. We suggest that campers bring long pants and high top riding shoes/boots for horseback riding day. We supply all sports and safety equipment such as tennis racquets, baseball mitts, riding helmets, etc. Please apply sun screen at home. If you would like more applied during the day, send in the sunscreen marked with your child's name and a note.
How often does my child drink water at camp each day?
Please send your child with their Camp Gan Israel water bottle every Monday. Water bottles will be kept at camp for the week and sent home with campers over the weekend to be cleaned. Water coolers are set up around the camp. They will be instructed to drink every hour. Bottles will be refilled as needed throughout the day.
How can I speak with my child's counselor?
A call to the camp office will answer most questions. Since counselors are constantly supervising groups and activities, messages will be taken at the camp office. You can also park and walk in to pick up your child to speak with their counselor at the end of the day.
How can I speak with a Camp Director?
The director is available to answer your questions and discuss your concerns during the day through the camp office at (617.630.4620). Please understand that the directors may be out and about during the time of your call making sure that everything is perfect for your children. If the director is unavailable at the time of your call, please leave a message with both your daytime and evening phone numbers and your call will be returned promptly.
Are we obligated to give a tip or gift to our child's counselor?
Although not required, tips or gifts are appreciated. If you wish to do so, here is a general guideline: $25-30 for a junior counselor and $40-50 for a counselor.
How can I become more involved with Camp Gan Israel?
The camp encourages the involvement of "bunk" parents (just like a class parent). If you are interested please inform the Director. We also have sponsorship opportunities to help sponsor a specific camp activity, counselor dinners, or camp for a child whose family needs financial assistance.
When must campers wear a camp shirt?
We require that all campers wear a Camp Gan Israel shirt on Wednesdays. While on field trips camp shirts distinguish our campers and staff from other visitors and we are instantly recognizable to each other.
How much time do the campers spend outdoors?
Weather permitting, campers will spend most of their time outdoors. A playground is available as well as all fields and courts. Please apply sunscreen at home prior to camp. In case of rain or extreme heat, campers will have the opportunity to be indoors.