Camp Shelanu FAQs
What is Jewish about Camp Shelanu?
Camp Shelanu means “Our Camp” in Hebrew, and we proudly welcome campers and staff of all backgrounds and traditions.
While Camp Shelanu is rooted in Jewish values and culture, there is no religious instruction or theology taught at camp. Campers are introduced to Hebrew words, Jewish traditions, and cultural practices in an inclusive, age-appropriate way that is always explained and accessible.
Our program emphasizes universal values such as kindness, empathy, respect, inclusion, listening, bravery, and curiosity — values that are deeply connected to Jewish tradition and meaningful to all families.
Each week, campers are recognized for living out these values, and we end the week with a brief Kabbalat Shabbat celebration that includes grape juice, camper-made challah, and short, welcoming blessings.
How large is camp SHELANU? How big are the groups?
Camp Shelanu serves approximately 200–250 campers per week. We have 14-16 campers per group.
Classic Camp campers are grouped by grade level:
· Rising K–1
· Rising 2nd–3rd
· Rising 4th–5th
· Rising 6th–8th (Camp Sabra)
Specialty Camp groups are formed based on the grade ranges listed for each specialty.
All groups have two or more staff members and never exceed a 9:1 camper-to-staff ratio, with additional support staff added as needed.
What are Camp Shelanu’s age requirements?
Campers must be at least 5 years old by August 31 and entering kindergarten to be eligible for Camp Shelanu.
What is the difference between Classic Camp and Specialty Camp?
Camp Shelanu offers two types of camp experiences:
Classic Camp provides a well-rounded daily schedule that includes art, sports, nature, drama, games, swim, and free play.
Specialty Camps allow campers to spend part of each day focused on a specific interest (such as LEGO engineering, sewing, or circus skills), while still participating in Classic Camp activities for the rest of the day.
Classic Camp includes swim lessons three times per week for red and yellow swim bands. Specialty campers and campers with a green swim band do not receive lessons.
All campers participate in daily free swim, with safety and ability level always prioritized.
Are there benefits to being a Jewish for Good member or a Lerner School family?
Yes! Jewish for Good members receive:
· Early registration access
· Discounted camp tuition
To qualify, families must have an All-Inclusive Family Membership with campers listed on the account. Membership must remain active through the final day of camp.
Families committed to The Lerner School for the upcoming school year are also eligible for early registration.
What opportunities are available for tweens and teens?
We offer Sabra Camp for rising 6th-8th grade and Counselors in Training (CIT) for rising 9th–10th graders.
CIT Program
- For rising 9th & 10th graders
- An application-based program
- Participants serve as responsible team members and develop job-readiness skills
- The CIT program provides valuable leadership experience and skill development for future employment and academic success.
Applications for the CIT program are online now.
My camper has a disability, IEP, 504 plan, or additional support needs. What accommodations are available?
Camp Shelanu has an award-winning Inclusion Program that supports campers within their assigned camp groups. This is not a separate program, and there is no additional fee.
If your camper has physical, developmental, social-emotional, or behavioral needs, we encourage you to reach out. Many campers benefit from accommodations or supports families didn’t realize were available.
Campers with an IEP, 504 plan, Functional Behavior Assessment, or Behavior Intervention Plan are generally part of the Inclusion Program.
Families interested in learning more should review the Inclusion at Shelanu Summary and submit an Inclusion Program application.
Do you have Israeli counselors (Shlichim)?
Yes! Camp Shelanu welcomes Israeli Shlichim each summer, a tradition that has been part of our camp culture since 2011.
Our Israeli staff lead cultural activities throughout the summer, sharing Israeli music, games, food, and traditions. Once per summer, they also host a special Israel Day, transforming camp spaces into locations across Israel for an immersive experience.
This program is made possible through the generosity of host families in our community. Families interested in hosting Shlichim are encouraged to contact camp@jewishforgood.org
Is financial assistance available?
Yes. Camp Shelanu offers need-based financial aid. As a general guideline, households earning below the Durham County median household income ($82,916) are likely to qualify for assistance. If you’re unsure, we encourage you to apply.
All financial aid applications and documentation are submitted directly through the online application form.
What does a typical camp day look like?
Each day includes a balance of:
· Structured activities (art, sports, specialty blocks)
· Outdoor play and nature time
· Lunch and snack breaks
· Swim and water play
· Rest, choice time, and community building
· Daily schedules vary by age group and camp type, but all are designed to support engagement, movement, creativity, and fun.
How do I register FOR CAMP?
Registration is completed online through the Jewish for Good registration portal. Registration opens for Jewish for Good member in late January and for the public in early February.
Payment options include paying in full or paying a deposit per registration with the final balance due May 1st.
You can register at any time. A registration made less than seven days before the start of a camp session is subject to a $15 late registration fee.
Can I switch camps after registering?
Changes are subject to availability. If switching to a higher-priced session, families are responsible for the price difference. To request a change, please email email camp@jewishforgood.org.
Can I access my payment history for tax purposes?
Yes. Families can view and download tax statements by logging into their account at jewishforgood.org/register.
Our Tax ID number is 58-1384316.