Preparations towards FJC’s unique summer experience are now in full swing, aiming to create a beautiful positive summer experience for thousands of Jewish children across the former Soviet Union. The ‘Gan Israel’ JSummer UNIVERSAL initiative will focus on enhancing their Jewish identity and developing their talents and social skills.

Thousands of Jewish children, living in dozens of cities and regions across the former Soviet Union, in countries such as Russia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Latvia, Belarus, and even Ukraine, will enjoy an informal educational program this summer, specially adapted to their contemporary use of language and mentality. The program will enrich their personalities and give them a summer to remember for life.

The program, developed by a leading staff of professional experts on behalf of the Federation of Jewish Communities of the CIS (FSU), will include a wide variety of social games, quests, enhancing experiences, informal Jewish study sessions, arts and crafts, sports, swimming, amusements, dancing, trips, attractions, as well as kosher nutritious meals, and much more. The program will be led by a warm and dedicated team of experienced counselors and coordinators.

Special emphasis will be given this year to developing the campers’ social and life skills, including time management, self-confidence, family relationships, financial skills, decision making, communication skills, teamwork, and emotional intelligence. In addition, the campers will enjoy Jewish heritage classes and will become acquainted with Jewish values and ideals.