For Itamar, 14, from Moshav Ein HaBesor in southern Israel, life since October 7th, like for many others, has been a complicated and overwhelming experience; something always there in the back of his mind.
“After October 7, we made a deep bond between the Israelis and Jews around the world,” explained Itamar. “And it’s not something that everyone gets. It’s something really special.”
Coming to Sababa Beachaway Camp in Virginia as a Campers2Gether participant has given Itamar a chance to make new friends with North American Jewish teens and have a break from his daily reality. Launched by The Jewish Agency in 2024, Campers2Gether brings hundreds of Israeli teens affected by October 7 and the ensuing war to Jewish summer camps primarily in North America for a transformative camp experience. Over the course of their weeks together, Israeli and non-Israeli campers discover the power of Jewish peoplehood and foster genuine bonds that extend far beyond the summer.
“My new American friends are super nice. When I came here, I didn’t know anyone except my Israeli friends, but the Americans were very kind and welcoming, and they made it easy for me to talk with them,” Itamar said. “Before coming here, I didn’t have a lot of self-confidence; I’m a quiet kid… But now I’m so much more confident and feeling that way is really amazing.”
With its unique beach setting, Sababa campers get to take part in fun activities like surfing during the week, something Itamar got to experience for the first time. Itamar also enjoyed the Israeli vibes of Shabbat at camp, and just hanging out and talking with old Israeli friends and new American friends.
“We don’t have phones here, and it’s really great not having a phone, staying away from the internet and social media, because the only way to talk with people here is face-to-face, panim al panim,” shared Itamar. “And obviously, once I’m back home, I’m going to stay in contact with my new American friends; I love them all.”
“Thank you so much to the Jewish Agency for making Campers2Gether happen,” Itamar added. “This is probably some of the best weeks I’ve ever had in my life, and I really appreciate it.”
