How the Orange County Camp Initiative is making camp more accessible and more meaningful than ever.
At a pivotal moment for Jewish life, Jewish camp is thriving. Last summer, nearly 200,000 young people across North America experienced Jewish camp—a record-breaking number and a powerful reminder of its lasting impact. But for many Orange County families, the question hasn’t been why camp matters, but how to make it possible.
A new investment is changing that.
Through a landmark partnership between Foundation for Jewish Camp (FJC) and the Samueli Foundation, the Orange County Camp Initiative is helping make Jewish camp more accessible, affordable, and welcoming for local families.
A Local Initiative with Real Impact
At its core, the Orange County Camp Initiative is about removing barriers so more children can experience the magic of Jewish camp. First-time campers who live in Orange County are eligible for our signature One Happy Camper® (OHC) need-blind incentive grants up to $1,500 per summer for their first three summers. In addition, Middle Income Access Grants are available for families earning under $350,000 annually, and significant need-based scholarships are available through participating California camps.
For many families, this support is transformative.
“I am deeply grateful for the financial assistance [the Orange County Camp Initiative] continues to provide to our family,” shares Orange County parent Margo Marcus. “The cost of Jewish sleepaway camp can be overwhelming, and this support has truly been a game changer. It made it possible for my daughter to attend camp, where she has deepened her connection to Judaism, Jewish values, and her identity. She often says she feels like she’s with her ‘people’ at camp and as a parent, I couldn’t ask for more.”
Why Camp, Why Now?
Jewish camp offers something increasingly rare: A space where kids can fully be themselves while building independence, confidence, and lifelong friendships.
“Jewish overnight camp is really important to me because I’ve made friendships that will last a lifetime and grown closer to my religion,” says camper Brooklyn Marcus. “I love Israeli dancing and celebrating Shabbat with so many other Jewish kids like me. I can’t wait to go back this summer.”
Across denominations and styles—from shorter sessions to full summers, arts-focused programs to outdoor adventure—there is truly a camp for every child. What unites them is a shared focus on belonging, growth, and joyful Jewish life.
For camper Sydney King, it’s the everyday moments that make camp unforgettable. “My favorite part of camp is the song sessions,” she says. “Singing all our favorite songs together is the best feeling because everyone joins in, and it makes camp feel really special and fun.”
And for parents, the impact goes far beyond the summer months.
“Camp isn’t just a summer experience, it’s where our children learn to love being Jewish,” say Orange County parents Heidi and Fred King. “Through [this Initiative], Jewish values come to life in a way that feels authentic, joyful, and lasting.”
Getting Started
Applications for One Happy Camper and the Orange County Camp Initiative are open now. Families can explore camp options, learn about available grants, scholarships, and receive personalized guidance at jewishcamp.org/oc. For questions or one-on-one support, contact the Orange County team at orangecountyohc@jewishcamp.org.
Families also have access to a dedicated, local expert, FJC’s Orange County Program Manager, Amanda Silverman, who helps parents navigate options and find the right fit for their child. Because for every child, there is a Jewish camp waiting—and now, more Orange County families can say yes.
Families residing outside of Orange County may be eligible for One Happy Camper grants through other OHC partners at The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, PJ Library, or their camp. Visit onehappycamper.org for details.
About Foundation for Jewish Camp
Foundation for Jewish Camp (FJC) serves as a hub and support system for over 300 nonprofit day and overnight camps across the U.S. and Canada, including 15 overnight camps in California. We partner with camps on professional development, program funding, facility improvements, and more.
Margalit Rosenthal, Foundation for Jewish Camp West Coast Regional Director is a contributing writer to Jlife magazine.