URJ Camp Newman, nestled in the picturesque hills of Santa Rosa, California, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and enriching Jewish experiences. Located in the vibrant region of Northern California, the camp is surrounded by the rich landscapes and cultural landmarks that define this area, making it a perfect setting for a summer camp experience.

Founded with the vision of creating a space where young people can explore their Jewish identity, URJ Camp Newman has a storied history of fostering community, faith, and personal growth. Over the years, it has evolved into a cherished destination for campers seeking to connect with their heritage, nature, and each other in meaningful ways.

At the heart of URJ Camp Newman is a mission to provide a fun, safe, and immersive Jewish environment where campers can learn, grow, and create lasting friendships. The camp’s philosophy emphasizes the development of strong character, Jewish values, and a sense of communal responsibility, all within the context of an engaging and supportive camp community.

Catering to a diverse group of campers, URJ Camp Newman is a co-educational camp welcoming boys and girls across a wide range of ages. With programs designed to meet the needs and interests of different age groups, the camp ensures that every camper has the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable summer filled with adventure, learning, and personal development. Through its inclusive and dynamic environment, URJ Camp Newman continues to be a beacon of Jewish camping in California, inspiring generations of young people to embrace their culture, faith, and the natural world around them.

Programs Offered by URJ Camp Newman

URJ Camp Newman offers a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the interests and developmental stages of its campers, ranging from the arts and sports to science and outdoor adventure. These programs are carefully crafted to ensure a balance of fun, learning, and personal growth, all within a Jewish cultural and spiritual framework. Below is a generalized overview of the types of programs you might find at Camp Newman, including session lengths, specialty programs, and a glimpse into a typical daily schedule.

Description of Programs

General Camp Programs: These are traditional camp programs that include a wide range of activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, sports, and nature hikes. These programs are designed to give campers a well-rounded experience.

Specialty Programs: URJ Camp Newman may offer specialty tracks that allow campers to delve deeper into specific areas of interest. These could include:

Arts: Programs focusing on visual arts, performing arts, music, and dance, allowing campers to explore their creativity.
Sports: Camps might offer intensives in specific sports, providing campers the chance to improve their skills under the guidance of experienced coaches.
Science and Environment: Programs that engage campers in hands-on science experiments, environmental education, and sustainability practices.
Adventure and Outdoor Education: Focused on outdoor skills, leadership, and teamwork through activities like hiking, climbing, and overnight camping trips.

Length of Sessions

URJ Camp Newman’s sessions can vary in length to accommodate the preferences and schedules of different families. They might include:

One-week sessions for younger campers or those trying camp for the first time.
Two-week sessions that provide a deeper dive into camp life and more opportunities for skill development.
Full summer options for the most immersive experience, often with opportunities for leadership development for older campers.

Typical Daily Schedule

A day at Camp Newman is structured to provide a balanced mix of activities, free time, and community gatherings. While the exact schedule can vary, a typical day might look like this:

Morning: Wake up and participate in a flag-raising ceremony, followed by breakfast and a morning activity block where campers engage in one of their chosen programs.
Midday: Lunch followed by some downtime or rest hour, allowing campers to recharge.
Afternoon: Campers partake in another set of activities, which could be a continuation of the morning session or something entirely different. This might be followed by a free swim or another all-camp activity.
Evening: Dinner and then evening programs, which could range from campfires and talent shows to night hikes and special Shabbat celebrations.
Night: Bedtime routines vary by age group, with younger campers heading to bed earlier to ensure they get enough rest for the next day’s adventures.

The specific offerings, session lengths, and daily schedules at URJ Camp Newman are designed with the goal of fostering a sense of independence, community, and Jewish identity. Campers leave with a strengthened sense of self, lifelong friendships, and memories that last a lifetime.

Accommodations in URJ Camp Newman

URJ Camp Newman, like many residential camps, is designed to provide a comfortable and communal living experience for campers, ensuring their stay is both enjoyable and in line with a home-like environment as much as possible. The accommodations, dining options, and facilities reflect a commitment to safety, comfort, and inclusivity. Here’s an overview based on common practices in similar camps:

Sleeping Arrangements

Camp Newman typically offers cabin-style accommodations, which are the most common setup in residential camps. These cabins are designed to house a specific number of campers along with one or more counselors who live in the cabin to supervise and support the campers. The cabins are usually equipped with bunk beds, storage space for personal items, and lighting. Depending on the camp’s facilities, there may also be options like dormitory-style accommodations for older campers or special programs, offering a different living experience.

Dining Options

Meal Plans: Camp Newman likely operates on a fixed meal plan system, providing three balanced meals a day in a communal dining hall setting. The meals are designed to be nutritious, kid-friendly, and varied to cater to a wide range of tastes.
Dietary Accommodations: Understanding the importance of accommodating dietary needs, Camp Newman typically offers options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with specific food allergies or kosher dietary requirements. The camp kitchen is equipped to handle these needs with care to avoid cross-contamination and ensure every camper enjoys healthy, delicious meals.
Shabbat and Special Meals: In keeping with Jewish traditions, special meals for Shabbat and other Jewish holidays are prepared, offering an opportunity to celebrate these occasions together as a camp community.

Bathroom and Shower Facilities

Bathroom and shower facilities at Camp Newman are designed with camper comfort and convenience in mind. They are typically centrally located near the cabins or dorms and are separated by gender. These facilities include multiple stalls, sinks, and shower areas to accommodate the campers’ needs, ensuring privacy and cleanliness. Regular maintenance and cleaning are performed to uphold hygiene standards and provide a comfortable environment for all campers.

Accessibility and Comfort

Camp Newman strives to ensure that its facilities are accessible to all campers, including those with mobility challenges. This includes accommodations and modifications to sleeping quarters, dining facilities, and bathroom and shower areas as necessary.

The accommodations at URJ Camp Newman are thoughtfully designed to create a sense of community, comfort, and safety, allowing campers to focus on enjoying their camp experience to the fullest. For specific details about accommodations, it’s best to contact the camp directly, as facilities and offerings may evolve to better serve the camp community.

Activities in URJ Camp Newman

URJ Camp Newman provides a vibrant and enriching camping experience, offering a wide range of activities that cater to the interests and developmental needs of campers. The camp is designed to not only entertain but also to foster skills, friendships, and a deeper connection to the Jewish faith and values. Here is an overview of the activities, special events, and skill development opportunities available at Camp Newman:

List of Activities Offered

Swimming: Summer camps enjoy supervised swim time in the camp’s pool, which includes free swimming and instructional swim to improve techniques.
Hiking: Taking advantage of its beautiful Northern California location, Camp Newman offers guided hikes around the surrounding areas, allowing campers to explore the natural beauty and learn about the environment.
Crafts: A variety of crafting activities are available, from traditional arts and crafts to specialized workshops in pottery, painting, and more, encouraging creativity and self-expression.
Sports: A wide range of sports activities, including basketball, soccer, tennis, and ultimate Frisbee, promote physical health, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Science and Nature Programs: These programs allow campers to engage in hands-on learning about the environment, sustainability, and the sciences, fostering curiosity and a love for learning.
Jewish Life and Learning: Activities and programs that explore Jewish heritage, traditions, and values are integral, including Shabbat celebrations, Hebrew songs, and storytelling.

Special Events or Traditions

Shabbat Celebrations: Weekly Shabbat services and dinners bring the camp community together in reflection, prayer, and celebration, highlighting the camp’s commitment to Jewish traditions.
Color Wars: An exciting camp-wide competition that splits campers into teams for a series of fun and spirited challenges.
Talent Shows: Campers have the opportunity to showcase their talents and creativity in front of their peers, whether it be through music, dance, comedy, or other performance arts.
Campfires: Regular campfire gatherings for storytelling, singing, and marshmallow roasting are a staple, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Skill Development Opportunities

Leadership Training: Older campers can participate in leadership programs designed to develop their skills in communication, problem-solving, and community building.
Outdoor Adventures: Through activities like rock climbing, kayaking, and camping expeditions, campers learn about teamwork, resilience, and self-reliance.
Artistic Expression: Specialized art programs encourage campers to explore their creative talents in various mediums, offering a platform for personal expression and artistic development.
Environmental Stewardship: Programs focused on sustainability and environmental awareness educate campers on the importance of conserving nature and inspire them to take action in their communities.

URJ Camp Newman is dedicated to providing a safe, inclusive, and dynamic environment where campers can explore their interests, develop new skills, and form lasting friendships. Through its wide range of activities and programs, the camp fulfills its mission to enrich the lives of young people by offering experiences that promote growth, learning, and fun.

The staff of URJ Camp Newman

URJ Camp Newman is committed to maintaining a high standard of care and excellence in its programming, which is reflected in its approach to staffing. The camp prides itself on a dedicated and skilled team of staff members who are pivotal in creating a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment for campers. Here’s an overview of the staff structure, including the staff-to-camper ratio, hiring process, qualifications, and training.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio

URJ Camp Newman adheres to a favorable staff-to-camper ratio to ensure personalized attention and care for each camper. While the exact ratio may vary depending on the age group and specific needs of the campers, the camp typically aims for a ratio that meets or exceeds industry standards and best practices for residential camps. This ensures that every camper receives the support and guidance they need to have a fulfilling and enjoyable camp experience.

Hiring Process and Staff Qualifications

The camp employs a rigorous hiring process to select staff members who are not only qualified but also passionate about working with children and embody the camp’s values. This process includes:

Detailed Application: Prospective staff members must submit a comprehensive application detailing their experience, skills, and motivations for working at the camp.
Background Checks: All candidates undergo thorough background checks to ensure the safety and security of campers.
Interviews: Candidates participate in interviews to assess their suitability for the role, their ability to work as part of a team, and their commitment to the camp’s mission.
References: The camp requires candidates to provide references which are carefully checked to corroborate their qualifications and character.

Training and Certifications

URJ Camp Newman ensures that all staff members are adequately trained and hold the necessary certifications to provide a safe and high-quality camp experience. This includes:

CPR and First Aid Certification: All staff members are required to be certified in CPR and First Aid, ensuring they are prepared to handle any emergencies that may arise.
Specialized Training: Staff members leading specific activities, such as swimming or outdoor adventures, have additional certifications in their areas of expertise (e.g., lifeguarding, rock climbing instruction).
Pre-Camp Training: Before the camp season begins, staff undergo an intensive training program that covers child development, behavior management, safety protocols, program planning, and the implementation of the camp’s values and educational objectives.
Ongoing Professional Development: The camp provides ongoing training and professional development opportunities throughout the camp season to ensure staff skills and knowledge remain current and effective.

By upholding high standards in its staff selection, training, and development, URJ Camp Newman ensures that campers not only enjoy a fun and enriching camp experience but also do so in an environment that prioritizes their well-being, safety, and personal growth.

Safety and Health in URJ Camp Newman

URJ Camp Newman places the highest priority on the safety and health of all campers and staff, implementing comprehensive protocols and maintaining on-site health facilities to ensure a secure and nurturing environment. The camp’s approach to safety and health is designed to address a wide range of needs and scenarios, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a worry-free camp experience.

Safety Protocols and Procedures

Emergency Preparedness: URJ Camp Newman has well-established emergency procedures for a variety of situations, including natural disasters, medical emergencies, and security incidents. These protocols are regularly reviewed and updated in consultation with safety experts and local authorities.
Safety Training: All staff members receive extensive training in emergency procedures, safety protocols, and risk management strategies. This ensures that every staff member is prepared to respond effectively in case of an emergency.
Activity Safety: The camp enforces strict safety guidelines for all activities, especially those that involve higher levels of risk, such as swimming, climbing, or hiking. Equipment is regularly inspected, and activities are supervised by staff members with specific training and certifications relevant to the activity.
Security Measures: The campsite is equipped with security measures to protect campers and staff, including controlled access points and security personnel. The camp also maintains a policy of open communication with parents and guardians regarding any safety concerns or incidents.

On-Site Health Facilities and Staff

Health Center: URJ Camp Newman has an on-site health center staffed by qualified medical professionals, including nurses and, at times, visiting doctors. The health center is equipped to handle minor injuries and illnesses and is prepared to act as the first point of contact in case of a health emergency.
Medication Management: The health center staff manages and dispenses all camper medications according to physician instructions, ensuring that campers’ medical needs are met safely and effectively.
Health Screenings: Upon arrival, campers undergo health screenings to identify any immediate health concerns and to ensure that the camp can accommodate their medical needs during their stay.

Policies on Handling Emergencies

Immediate Response: In the event of an emergency, camp staff are trained to respond immediately, providing first aid and stabilizing the situation while the camp’s emergency protocols are activated.
External Medical Services: For emergencies requiring more advanced medical attention, the camp has arrangements with nearby medical facilities to ensure rapid transport and treatment. Parents and guardians are notified as soon as possible in such cases.
Communication: The camp maintains clear communication policies to inform parents and guardians about any significant health or safety incidents affecting their children. This includes providing updates on the situation and outlining the steps being taken in response.

URJ Camp Newman’s comprehensive approach to safety and health underscores its commitment to providing a secure and supportive environment where campers can thrive. By prioritizing preparedness, prevention, and prompt response, the camp ensures that campers and staff have the resources and support they need to address health and safety concerns effectively.

Cost and Registration in URJ Camp Newman

Cost of Attendance and What It Includes

The cost of attending URJ Camp Newman varies depending on the length of the session and the specific program chosen. Generally, the fees cover:

All lodging and meals
Program materials and activities
Supervision and instruction by trained staff
Any special events or outings that are part of the camp experience

Prices may vary significantly, so it’s essential to check the specific session or program of interest for accurate pricing.

Registration Process and Deadlines

Early Registration: Camps often offer early registration discounts for those who sign up by a certain date.
Online Registration: Most camps, including URJ Camp Newman, likely have an online registration system where parents can fill out necessary forms, select sessions, and submit payment.
Deadlines: Specific registration deadlines are set for each camp session, and it’s important to be aware of these dates to secure a spot. Camps may fill up quickly, so early registration is encouraged.

Payment Plans, Refunds, and Cancellation Policies

Payment Plans: Many camps offer payment plan options to spread the cost of attendance over several months, making it more manageable for families.
Refunds and Cancellation: Policies regarding refunds and cancellations vary by camp. Typically, there may be a non-refundable deposit at the time of registration, with partial refunds available if cancellation occurs by a specific date. For cancellations close to the start date of the session, refunds may not be available, or only a partial refund may be offered.
Insurance: Some camps offer or recommend insurance that can cover the cost of camp in the event of cancellation for medical reasons or emergencies.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Scholarships: URJ Camp Newman may offer scholarships based on need, merit, or other criteria. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost for families requiring financial assistance.
Financial Aid: Additional financial aid may be available through the camp or affiliated organizations. This aid is often need-based, requiring families to submit an application detailing their financial situation.
Jewish Federation and Community Scholarships: Many Jewish federations and community organizations offer scholarships for children attending Jewish summer camps. Families are encouraged to explore these options as well.

Cost:

Mechina (Taste of Camp) Experience: This program is for children entering grades 2-4 and has two session options. Prices range from $695 to $1095.
2-Week Sessions: These sessions are for campers entering grades 3-11 and there are four session options throughout the summer. Prices range from $3545 to $4295 for URJ members and an additional $150 for non-members.

Parent and Camper Preparation in URJ Camp Newman

Preparing for a stay at URJ Camp Newman involves thoughtful planning to ensure campers are equipped with everything they need for a fulfilling camp experience. Here’s a general guide on what to pack, understand the camp’s rules and policies, and some tips for first-time campers and their parents.

Packing List

To ensure campers have a comfortable and enjoyable time, here’s a basic packing list:

Clothing: Pack enough for the session length, considering the activities (sports, swimming, arts) and weather (day/night temperature shifts). Include items like T-shirts, shorts, jeans, sweatshirts, a jacket, pajamas, underwear, socks, swimwear, and a nicer outfit for Shabbat or special occasions.
Footwear: Sneakers, sandals/flip-flops, and possibly waterproof boots.
Bedding: Sleeping bag or sheets and blankets, pillow.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sunscreen, bug repellent, and any personal hygiene items.
Other Essentials: Towels (bath and pool), flashlight, water bottle, hat, sunglasses, and reusable bag for laundry.
Special Items: Judaica for services (if applicable), stationery for writing home, and any required medication.

Rules and Policies

Familiarizing with and adhering to camp rules is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience:

Technology Use: Camps often limit or prohibit the use of smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices to encourage engagement and interaction. Check Camp Newman’s policy.
Visitation: Understand the camp’s guidelines on visitation days, if offered, to ensure smooth visits that comply with camp schedules.
Behavior Expectations: Respect for peers, staff, and camp property is a must. Bullying, violence, or other negative behaviors typically result in disciplinary action.

Tips for First-Time Campers and Parents

Discuss Expectations: Talk about camp life, focusing on the exciting aspects and the normalcy of feeling homesick.
Practice Independence: Encourage your child to practice self-care skills, like making the bed or managing personal hygiene, before camp starts.
Stay Positive: Focus on the positive experiences awaiting at camp and express confidence in your child’s ability to adapt and enjoy.
Communication: Explain how you’ll communicate (e.g., letters, emails) during their time at camp, and reassure them of your support.
Pack Together: Involve your child in packing to ensure they’re familiar with what they’re bringing and to teach responsibility.

Preparing for camp is an exciting time for both campers and their families. By following these guidelines and tips, first-time campers can set the stage for a memorable and enriching experience at URJ Camp Newman, filled with new friendships, learning, and fun.

URJ Camp Newman stands as a vibrant beacon in the heart of Santa Rosa, California, offering an enriching summer experience rooted in Jewish values and traditions. With its picturesque setting, a diverse range of programs, and commitment to safety, growth, and community, Camp Newman provides an ideal backdrop for children and teens to explore their identities, develop new skills, and forge lifelong friendships. From the moment campers step onto the campus, they are immersed in a nurturing environment designed to inspire confidence, leadership, and a deep connection to their cultural heritage.

The camp’s carefully crafted activities, from outdoor adventures and creative arts to spiritual learning and communal Shabbat celebrations, ensure that every camper finds pathways to personal growth and joy. The dedicated staff, rigorous safety protocols, and supportive community atmosphere underscore a commitment to each camper’s well-being and success. Moreover, with considerations for financial accessibility and a focus on inclusivity, URJ Camp Newman makes the transformative camp experience accessible to a broad range of families.