Learn who we are at JCC Abrams Camps, a values-based nonprofit summer camp serving Princeton, Mercer County, and Lower Bucks County with a focus on community, growth, and belonging. JCC ABRAMS camps Our Mission The mission of JCC Abrams Camps has always been, since 1960, to create a nurturing, inclusive environment that inspires children to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build friendships. We blend Jewish values, enriching activities, and the spirit of adventure to create unforgettable experiences, ensuring campers grow in confidence, character, and community. our CAMPERSHIP values Our values reflect the heart of JCC Abrams Camps: belonging, creativity, and adventure. Rooted in Jewish traditions and values, we embrace diversity and celebrate each camper's unique potential. We strive to create a space where all families feel welcome and children are encouraged to learn, grow, and make lifelong memories. (Yes, it spells ABRAMS!) A dventure Exploring our curiosities, taking chances, and trying new experiences. A ccountability Taking ownership and responsibility for our actions. B elonging Creating a welcoming environment for all. M itzvot Creating opportunities to do good and perform acts of kindness . Tikkun Olam. R espect Treating others, ourselves, and our world with care and kindness. S pirit Bringing a positive attitude and enthusiasm. OUR STRUCTURE At JCC Abrams Camps, we’re committed to providing a personalized and enriching experience for every camper. Our unit and bunk structure ensures that children are grouped in a way that promotes growth, friendship, and fun, while maintaining a camper-to-staff ratio that exceeds state requirements for optimal care and support. OUR STAFFING MODEL Each unit is led by a dedicated Unit Director, who ensures the smooth operation of the unit and provides support to both campers and staff. In addition to the Unit Director, each group is staffed with a Senior Counselor and a Junior Counselor. This team ensures that each camper receives personalized attention, guidance, and care throughout the camp day. We take pride in maintaining a camper-to-staff ratio that exceeds state requirements, ensuring that every child has the attention they need to thrive in a safe and supportive environment. Our group sizes are based on the number of campers in each grade, allowing us to provide an engaging, tailored experience for all. Unit Breakdown: Garinim: Our youngest, pre-school campers. Shorashim: Early elementary-age campers. Anafim: Middle elementary-age campers. Gozalim Travel: Tweens embracing adventure. Teen Travel: Energetic teens in their prime. Madrichim: 10th-grade camp leaders in training. Learn more about our programs by age and our units here. OUR leadership TEAM The People Who Bring Camp to Life Our leadership team brings together years of camp experience, thoughtful leadership, and a genuine love for working with children. Their dedication helps create the safe, joyful, and welcoming environment that makes JCC Abrams Camps so special. Samantha Eichert seichert@jccpmb.org Senior Director of Camps Samantha grew up at day camp and later built her career working at overnight camps, developing a lifelong love of the camp experience. She brings a deep understanding of camp and the community it creates, and loves getting to know campers, staff, and families across camp. You’ll likely spot her cruising around on the golf cart checking in on activities and joining in on the fun. She believes the best part of camp is watching campers grow in confidence, friendships, and independence over the course of the summer. Favorite Camp Activity : Gaga or Color War Fun Fact: Samantha loves ring-tailed lemurs. Kim Sussman ksussman@jccpmb.org Program Director Kim has been part of JCC Abrams Camps since 2023 and believes camp is the perfect place to lean into adventure, silliness, and friendship. A lifelong camper and current middle school teacher, she is passionate about creating joyful, meaningful experiences where every camper can try new things, make friends, and feel like they belong. At camp, you’ll often find Kim running from place to place, checking in on activities, making jokes, singing on stage, jumping into muddy puddles on rainy days, or celebrating Shabbat with lots of ruach. Favorite Camp Activity : Gaga, Swim, Shabbat, and Boker Tov Fun Fact: Kim is the Punny Joke Master...try to out-cheese her and she’ll leave you feeling blue… she’s just too gouda. 🧀 Debra Radin dradin@jccpmb.org Director of Camper & Staff Wellness Debra has been part of the JCC PMB community since 1998, first as a teacher at the JCC Ring Nursery School and joining camp that same summer with her children, Jared and Erica. Over the years, she has served in many camp leadership roles and remains a trusted, caring presence for campers, staff, and families. With decades of experience in early childhood development, bullying prevention, and peer mediation, Deb helps foster a camp culture rooted in kindness and emotional safety. Around camp, you’ll often find her greeting campers as they step off the bus or checking in to make sure everyone feels supported. Favorite Camp Activity: Making pink cotton candy for 300 campers and staff! Fun Fact: Deb has a special talent for helping picky petunias try new foods and nervous swimmers find their confidence in the pool. Matt Strober mstrober@jccpmb.org Teen Travel Director Matt has been part of JCC Abrams Camps for more than 12 summers. What started as a love of working with kids quickly grew into a passion for helping teens build confidence, independence, and lasting friendships through camp. He oversees the planning of daily trips and overnight adventures, coordinating logistics and working closely with staff to make sure every experience is safe, exciting, and memorable. From amusement parks and beaches to hotel overnights, Matt loves creating experiences that campers talk about long after summer ends. Favorite Camp Activity: Color War and Teen Travel overnights Fun Fact: Matt is a Rangers, Giants, and Mets superfan and loves traveling to visit new stadiums, ballparks, and arenas. Robin Smolarz rsmolarz@jccpmb.org Early Childhood Director Robin’s connection to JCC Abrams Camps began in 1981 when she begged her parents to let her join her six older siblings at camp. She grew up through every stage of the program, from camper to counselor to unit director, and later returned with her own children when they were old enough to attend. With a background in psychology and early childhood education, Robin brings decades of experience working with young children. She loves helping our youngest campers adjust to their first outdoor camp experience and can often be found singing, dancing, playing, and sharing hugs and high fives throughout the day. Favorite Camp Activity : Shabbat Fun Fact: Robin loves hugs, pretzels, warm cookies, and mensches! staff roles & RESPONSIBILITIES Joy. Commitment. Compassion. At JCC Abrams Camps, we are proud to have a dedicated and dynamic team that works together to create a safe, fun, and enriching environment for our campers. From experienced leadership to passionate counselors, our team is committed to ensuring each child’s growth and success. Leadership Our leadership team is responsible for guiding camp operations, supporting staff, and shaping the overall camp experience. They work behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly and that our values are upheld. Unit Directors Unit Directors are experienced camp staff with a background in education. They oversee the daily camp experience within their units, working closely with counselors to create a fun and enriching environment. Senior Staff Our senior staff plays a key role in overseeing specific areas of camper care and safety. Medical Health Director: Ensuring the health and safety of our campers and staff. Behavioral Health Director: Supporting campers' emotional well-being and addressing any behavioral needs. Aquatics Director: Managing all water-related activities and ensuring safety in aquatic environments. Specialists Specialists are experts in specific fields, such as arts, sports, or outdoor activities. They lead specialized programs and work closely with counselors to ensure a well-rounded and engaging experience for all campers. Counselors The heart of our camp, our counselors provide daily guidance and support to campers, leading activities, encouraging friendships, and creating a positive camp environment. They are passionate, caring, and dedicated to helping each camper have a memorable summer. Support Staff Our support staff ensures the smooth running of camp operations, handling everything from food service to maintenance, and providing essential behind-the-scenes support to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all. our ROOTS Founded in 1960, JCC Abrams Camps has been a cornerstone of the Greater Delaware Valley for over six decades. Our camp has always been dedicated to enriching the lives of children through Jewish values and community. Throughout our history we’ve touched hundreds of thousands of lives, shaping campers who forge lifelong connections, embrace their heritage, and carry the spirit of our camp with them beyond the summer, from generation to generation. 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s While deeply rooted in tradition, we are constantly evolving to meet the needs of each new generation. Our ultimate goal is growth starting with the individual and extending to the wider community; ensuring that each camper leaves with the tools to thrive both personally and collectively. 2011 2014 2016 2018 At JCC Abrams Camps, we’re proud of our rich history and the lasting impact we’ve had on generations of families. But the story doesn’t stop here—each new family adds a unique chapter to our camp's legacy . Whether you’re familiar with us or just discovering the magic of our community, we invite you to join us this summer and create your own unforgettable memories. 2021 2022 2023 2024 Be a part of something truly special. 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JCC Abrams Camps is a nonprofit summer camp serving Princeton, Mercer County, and Lower Bucks County with joyful day camp and travel programs for PreK through 10th grade. Where every day is a new adventure rooted in tradition . JCC Abrams Camps brings together the classic fun of summer camp with the deeper purpose of instilling Jewish values and fostering community . It’s where children and teens come together for a transformative experience that fosters personal growth, friendships, and a connection to Jewish identity. At camp, every day is an opportunity to learn, explore, and grow in a fun, supportive, and nurturing environment. From learning to climb the rockwall to passing the deep water test, our campers grow in confidence and character. The friendships formed here last long after the summer ends, and the lessons learned stay with them for life. Take a look at what the best summer ever looks like... We've been a trusted choice for campers, families, and staff since 1960. Why JCC Abrams Camps? Hear it directly from our camp family.

Explore upcoming camp and community events at JCC Abrams Camps in East Windsor NJ, including family programs, open houses, and special gatherings. EVENT calendar We hope you'll join us for all the fun we have to offer. Don't Miss A Thing! Add our calendar to your phone by subscribing to our Google Calendar or iCal feed. It’s an easy way to stay updated with all our upcoming events right at your fingertips. Google Calendar Subscribe Here Apple iCal Subscribe Here

From Jacey, Our Teva (Science & Nature) Specialist When the snow starts falling, we cannot help but think about all the ways camp kids would turn it into something magical. Snow days are made for building. For experimenting. For getting a little messy. For trying something new. Our Teva specialist, Jacey, put together a simple guide so your family can build a Quinzee  right at home. It is hands-on, a little bit science, a little bit teamwork, and a whole lot of winter fun. A quinzee is different from an igloo. Instead of stacking snow blocks, you pile up snow into a big mound and then hollow it out. Here is how to do it. Step 1: Choose Your Spot Pick a safe space in your yard that is: Flat or gently sloped Away from roads or heavy tree branches Easy for adults to supervise If you have a slight hill, even better. You will dig the entrance on the downhill side. Step 2: Build Your Snow Mound Pile snow into a large mound. Bigger really is better here. As you build: Pack the snow down. If the snow is very powdery, sprinkle a little water to help it stick. Let the mound sit for at least 1 to 2 hours before digging. This helps the snow bond together and become stronger. This waiting part is hard. We know. But it makes a big difference. Step 3: Add Measuring Sticks Jacey’s biggest pro tip Poke measuring sticks straight into the mound from the outside. Push them in about one foot deep . When you start hollowing out the inside, you will stop digging when you see the ends of the sticks. That means your walls will stay about one foot thick, which is strong and safe. Walls can be 1 to 2 feet thick, but one foot is great. Like the sticks. Step 4: Dig the Entrance Dig a small entrance on the downhill side of the mound. Keep it small at first. You can always widen it later. If the inside floor is slightly higher than the entrance, that helps trap warmer air inside. Cold air sinks, so this simple trick actually makes it more comfortable. Step 5: Hollow It Out Now the fun part. One person can dig from the inside while another helps from the outside. Scoop snow out slowly and carefully. Stop when you see the ends of the measuring sticks. Keep the ceiling rounded like a dome. Rounded shapes are much stronger than flat ones. Step 6: Smooth the Inside Once it is hollowed out: Smooth the walls and ceiling with gloved hands. Fill in cracks. Keep everything curved. This helps strengthen the structure and keeps loose snow from falling. Teva Tips for Success Pack first, dig later. The stronger your mound, the stronger your shelter. Keep the ceiling rounded, never flat. Poke a small air hole through the top with a stick for ventilation. Always have an adult supervising. No climbing on top. It is not built for jumping. And remember, quinzes are for playing and exploring. Not for sleeping overnight. Building a quinzee is not just a snow day activity. It is problem solving. It is teamwork. It is outdoor learning without even realizing you are learning. It is the kind of hands-on adventure we love at camp. If you build one, tag us. We would love to see your winter creations and celebrate your snow day magic right along with you. ❄️

Missing camp already? Same. That’s why we’re launching Camp-to-Go , a mini menu of camp-inspired, screen-free activities you can do right at home. Each idea below is quick to set up, easy to repeat, and kid-approved. Try one (or all four), snap a pic, and tag us  so we can cheer on your living-room Gaga champions, bracelet designers, dancers, and tiny chefs. Camp Dance Lessons: Ba Kalil Camp dances are basically joy in a reusable format. This one is simple: press play, follow along, and let your living room become the stage. Video instructions:   https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oKnxk17pj3tH2zBHsK-mzU-NbVYBwuwe/view?usp=sharing   (We know this video isn't our fabulous dance specialist, Brittany, but this is almost as good. Time:  10–25 minutes Best for:  Any age You’ll need: A little open space Water (dance breaks are real) Optional: a flashlight for “stage lights” The song Ba Kalil - Here's a link to our Spotify! https://open.spotify.com/user/plkpqaj82wmu5nci7yzl0jvpv?si=fc74ab9d31154a1d How to Run a Camp Dance Session Warm-up (2 minutes):  march in place, big arm circles, gentle stretches. Learn it:  watch once, then do it again. Practice it:  run it 2 more times with “performance energy.” Make it a show:  someone announces, someone performs, someone cheers. Add a challenge round: Do it in slow motion Do it with MOSTLY WACKY KNEES ! Do it super tiny Do it with “camp faces” only (no words, just expressions) Tag-us moment Record a 5–10 second clip of your best part and tag us  so we can share and celebrate.

We are so excited to welcome Samantha Eichert  as our new Senior Director of Camps  at JCC Abrams Camps! Sam joins our community with a deep love of Jewish camping, a passion for hands-on learning, and a strong belief in the power of camp to help children grow into confident, curious, and connected individuals. As we look ahead to summer, we couldn’t be more thrilled to have her stepping into this role. A Camp Leader Through and Through Samantha comes to JCC Abrams Camps from URJ 6 Points Creative Arts Academy, where she most recently served as Senior Assistant Director. She brings years of experience in overnight Jewish camping, along with leadership roles throughout New Jersey’s Jewish community. Her academic background reflects her deep commitment to education and Jewish life. Samantha earned a BA in Judaic Studies and Sociology, with a minor in History, from the University of Hartford. She also holds a Master’s degree in Religious Education from Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion and is a graduate of the Union for Reform Judaism’s Youth Professional 101 Program. Why Camp Matters to Sam At the heart of Samantha’s work is a belief in experiential, hands-on learning. She sees camp as a place where young people can explore who they are, try new things, build meaningful friendships, and develop a strong sense of belonging. To her, camp is not just a summer experience. It is a foundation for lifelong confidence and connection. A Little More About Sam When she’s not talking about camp, which is often, Samantha is a proud Philadelphia native and devoted Philly sports fan. She lives in Lumberton, New Jersey with her husband, Matt, and their two dogs, Woody and Ariel. A self-proclaimed Disney super fan, she brings enthusiasm, warmth, and a whole lot of camp spirit wherever she goes. What’s Next Samantha will officially be joining us in mid-February and is already looking ahead to a summer filled with fun, friendship, and meaningful experiences for our campers. We’ll be sharing opportunities soon for families to meet her in person, and we hope you’ll join us at our upcoming S’mores & Tours Open House on February 22 to say hello and get excited for the summer ahead. We’re thrilled to welcome Samantha to the JCC Abrams Camps family and can’t wait for all that’s to come. Get to Know Sam: Camp Q&A What was your favorite camp activity growing up? Arts and crafts, especially ceramics, and soccer. I would alternate between the two whenever I could! If you could design your perfect camp day, what would it include? We’d start the day with singing and dancing, maybe Zumba. My day would definitely include arts and crafts, soccer, and the pool, even better if I got a double swim period. Gaga is a MUST. Is it even camp without Gaga? Lunch would be pizza, snack would be chocolate chip cookies or Rita’s water ice, and my water bottle would have friendship bracelet string tied on it so I could make bracelets with friends. Ice cream or popsicles? I’m a Philly girl, so Rita’s water ice, specifically gelati. But if I have to choose, mint chocolate chip ice cream. Pool day or Gaga day? Half and half. The pool is great for cooling off, and Gaga is my favorite way to hang out with friends and get a little competitive. Boker Tov or End of Day? Boker Tov. Let’s start our day in community! What song instantly puts you in “camp mode”? Any Israeli dancing song or line dancing song. Cotton Eyed Joe, Cha Cha Slide, Macarena. I love when we can be silly together. What’s one camp tradition you hope never disappears? Color War. I haven’t been part of a Color War in about 10 years and I am SO excited to be back at a camp where we get to have friendly competition with friends and dress in team colors. If you had to lead a camp cheer, what would it be about? My love for camp, of course! When is Color War? Sometime this summer 😉 What’s one fun fact about you that might surprise our camp families? My favorite animal is a ring-tailed lemur. I also love a good golf cart ride and taking campers and staff on “Carts & Conversations with Sam.” What’s your favorite way to recharge after a busy day? If the weather is nice, sitting by the beach or pool with a good audiobook. And snuggling with my dogs, always. What’s one hobby or interest you love outside of camp? I’m a crafter. Painting with diamonds projects are everywhere in my home. And I’m very passionate about the Flyers. I love you, Gritty! Why JCC Abrams Camps? What drew you to JCC Abrams Camps? I was a day-camp kid all the way. Day-camp campers and families are my people. Getting to be part of a Jewish day camp is really special. I believe camp is a place for identity building and connection, and Abrams Camps already has an incredible foundation for that. What excites you most about joining our camp community? The people. I’ve loved meeting folks already and can’t wait to spend more time getting to know everyone. What do you hope campers feel when they walk through our gates each morning? Joy and a sense of belonging. Camp should be a place where everyone feels most like themselves and loved for exactly who they are. What’s one skill camp teaches better than anywhere else? Relationship building. Camp is where kids learn to navigate friendships, compromise, and resilience. Silly answer: how to make all kinds of friendship bracelets. What’s something every child deserves from their camp experience? To feel loved and held by their community. Camp should be a safe place to try new things, to fail and try again, and to know there are people who support you no matter what. Which of our values is your favorite? Belonging. That’s what camp is all about to me. Finding a place where you’re part of something special and bigger than yourself. Camp becomes better because you’re here.