This month we are spotlighting several awardees of Buffalo Jewish Federation’s First-Time Camper Incentive grants, Taste of Centerland and One Happy Camper. Today, we are delighted to spotlight Adina Bluestein who attended Camp Havaya for the first time last summer.

Adina is currently a 9th grader in Amherst. “Camp made me feel like I was part of a community,” she said about her first summer camp experience. “I connected with many people who became close friends because of our common religious bond.” Adina’s parents, Paul & Roberta, were thrilled that Adina loved camp so much: “Our child found a new connection to Judaism in a wonderful month long experience with camp staff, and new friends.” And, Adina is eagerly looking forward to the opportunity to experience Israel with her Camp Havaya friends this summer!

Camp Havaya, affiliated with the Reconstructionist movement, is all about the joy of summer camp with the freedom to be who you truly are. In their incredibly diverse and accepting community, all kids—no matter their race, sexual orientation, gender identity, family structure, or Jewish background—are more than welcome. They are celebrated! Camp Havaya is located in South Sterling, PA, just a 4 ½-hour drive from Buffalo. For more information about Camp Havaya, click HERE.

For more information on the First-Time Camper Incentive Grants offered through the Buffalo Jewish Federation, Taste of Centerland and One Happy Camper, click HERE. If you have any questions, click here to email Mandy Weiss.