Across British Columbia, wildfires are once again affecting many regions of our province. Like many of you, I have been following the updates closely and thinking of the communities, firefighters, emergency personnel, and volunteers working tirelessly to protect people and property. As we have seen time and again, British Columbians come together in moments of challenge, supporting neighbours and communities in need. If you would like to contribute to relief efforts, you can do so through our BC Wildfire Relief Fund.

Where Connection Comes to Life
Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to spend time with Jewish communities across British Columbia. Last Friday, I was in Nelson, where community members gathered for a Shabbat potluck. As I looked around the room, I was struck by the warmth, generosity, and sense of belonging that people had created together.

This time of year, many of those same opportunities for connection are happening through camps and youth programs.

Some of my fondest memories as a Jewish kid are from summers at camp. There is something special about being surrounded by friends, singing around a campfire, celebrating Shabbat outdoors, and spending weeks immersed in Jewish life in a way that feels joyful, natural, and unforgettable. Today, as I watch my own children create their own camp memories, I see again how powerful those experiences can be, and how deeply they shape our connection to community, identity, and one another.

That is why camps and youth programs remain such an important part of Jewish life in British Columbia. Whether on a lake in the Okanagan, overlooking the ocean, or in the heart of our city, hundreds of young people are spending this summer strengthening their connection to Jewish life and to one another. That investment in our youth is also an investment in the future of our community. I am grateful for the camps, educators, counsellors, and community leaders who make these experiences possible.

Different Settings, Shared Purpose
This summer, Camp Hatikvah is welcoming 407 unique campers and more than 725 participants overall, including counsellors and family camp participants.

A Community Investment in Our Future
At Jewish Federation, we are proud to partner with Camp Hatikvah, Camp Miriam, and organizations across our community to help make these experiences possible. Through the support of our donors and the Annual Campaign, we invest in programs that bring Jewish values, friendships, and community to life for the next generation.

While each of these experiences is unique, they share a common goal: helping young people build meaningful connections to one another, to Jewish values, and to their community. Behind every registration is a young person discovering confidence, deepening friendships, and developing a stronger sense of Jewish identity.

Together, we are helping ensure that every young person has opportunities to connect, belong, and thrive.

It is an opportunity to reconnect after the summer, hear a fascinating conversation with one of Canada’s most recognizable media personalities, and celebrate what we can accomplish as a community. If you haven’t yet reserved your spot, I encourage you to do so and help us launch this year’s campaign. Register here.

A Time for Reflection
Next week, we will observe Tisha B’Av, beginning on the evening of July 22 and ending on July 23. This solemn day invites us to reflect on the losses and challenges that have shaped Jewish history while reminding us of the resilience and continuity of the Jewish people. Learn more here.

As I think about the young people creating Jewish memories at camp this summer, I am reminded that even in our moments of mourning, we remain focused on ensuring a strong and vibrant future for generations to come.

Shabbat shalom,