Staff Appreciation Bank of Ideas

Created by Amanda Leventhal and Hannah Via

Counselors say that the number one reason they don’t return to camp is internships, but focus groups run by Foundation for Jewish Camp have discovered that the actual leading issue in regards to staff retention is staff feeling undervalued. This problem can be addressed by camps implementing various staff appreciation efforts and programs. Making Mensches: A Periodic Table lists the Middot (values) of Areyvut – Community Mindedness and Achrayut – Social Responsibility as important Jewish values. These are particularly relevant to this issue because the summer camp experience begins with staff. When staff feel appreciated, the resulting boost in morale benefits the camp community as a whole.