This week about 40 students from Nazareth Illit, Migdal HaEmek, and Jezreel Valley returned from Camp Tamarack after a month of fun, enjoyment, new experiences, and making new friends.  This cycle of campers marks the seventh year of impressive cooperation between the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit and Partnership 2000.

In the first days of camp, one could see by the looks on their faces that the Israeli kids were going through the adjustment phase of the camp experience—they kept quiet, were introverted, and observed exemplary silence when eating their meals in the communal dining room.  But as days went, by the Israelis loosened up and even stood out by taking top places in tournaments (distinguishing themselves especially in horse-related events). 

On the last day of camp, while actively participating in session of group singing in the dining room, the youths expressed their desire to stay longer and spend time with their new friends.  Camp counselors described how, at one stage, the groups had mixed so wonderfully that you couldn't tell who was Israeli or who was American.

"I can't believe how I wasted those first days by not mixing with others – this is an amazing place and I can't wait for the next time we all meet," declared one of the kids with tears in his eyes.

The number of campers who have taken part in the Tamarack project through its first seven years stands at about 800.  Beginning last year, two cycles of Israeli campers have left for Tamarack during the summer, dividing up into groups based on age when arriving at the camp.  Activities at Camp Tamarack include: swimming in the lake, waterskiing, horse riding, go-carting, arts & crafts, excursions outside of camp (combining walking and canoeing), and a host of other activities.  The Israeli campers talk only in English during the activities with their American friends; they describe their lives in Israel and particularly in their local region.

Aside from the meaningful experience they undergo at camp, Israeli kids are hosted by families in the Jewish community, who open up their houses and hearts to the Israelis after having anticipated their visit all year.  Camp Tamarack spawns a great number of cooperative relationships and friendships that continue for years.  These friendships doubtlessly contribute to both sides, Americans and Israelis, in terms of general knowledge about each other, memorable experiences, and a place to hope for and dream about visiting in the future.

It should be noted that upon their return to Israel, the Israeli campers displayed an intensified sense of Jewish identity, with increased understanding of Jewish culture.  The kids have already begun staying in touch with their new overseas friends!              

For further information/ comments please feel free contacting me at the following address:

 Hila Shaham

P.R & Communication Coordinator

Partnership 2000, Central Galilee

050-9854311

 Or visit our web site at:

www.partner.org.il/exchange