Camp Gan Israel

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Dear potential CGI Detroit Teen camper,

We are excited that you are considering joining us for the summer of 5784. We are gearing up for a successful summer filled with Yiddishe and Chassidishe ruach, inspiration, growth and excitement. We understand that not every camp is for everyone. Please take a moment to look over the details below to see if CGI Detroit Teen Camp is right for you. We trust that any girl who chooses to attend our camp is committed to respecting all the camp guidelines outlined below.
MINDSET

At Detroit Teen Camp we are dedicated to cultivating an atmosphere of maturity and responsibility. We see our campers as young adults – capable of making mature and right choices. We live with a “Chossid Mindset,” focused on growth and avodah - hard work
“יגעתי ומצאתי תאמין“ and viewing life through the lens of Torah and Chassidus. Guided by the Rebbe, our source of inspiration, we strive for excellence in all we do b’gashmius u’bruchnius.

RESPECT
Staff

We expect our campers to speak with kavod and deference to those who are older and in positions of authority. Following instructions without challenging or arguing is the expected manner of communication at Detroit Teen Camp.

Property

Campers are expected to help us maintain and uphold our camp’s physical cleanliness and overall tidiness.

Bunkmates

One of the defining trademarks of a Chossid is the way in which they show Ahavas Yisroel and selflessness towards others. We expect our campers to show care, concern and respect towards their fellow campmates. It may be as small as pouring a drink for a friend before you pour your own, or congratulating your bunkmate when something good happens to them – respect and kindness must always be on the forefront of our minds. It goes without saying that our campers will never touch what doesn’t belong to them and will respect the personal space of others.

Self

Each of you is a Yid – a child of Hashem with a holy Neshama, a Chossid and future
Shlucha representing our Rebbe wherever you go. Keeping this in mind ensures your
behavior and choices will reflect the essence of who you are.

ORDER

In Detroit Teen Camp, we strongly adhere to "א חסיד איז מסודר"
Respecting the camp schedule is imperative. Campers are expected to be punctual and attend all designated activities, at all times, on time.

ATTITUDE

At Detroit Teen Camp, we emphasize Hakaras Hatov—expressing gratitude and acknowledging the efforts of everyone who contributes to the camp, from the cook to the office manager, your counselor, the HCs, and everyone in between. While simply saying "thank you" is important, we are taught that “המעשה הוא העיקר“ actions speak louder than words. Displaying a positive attitude, making the best of every situation, and offering help are all powerful ways to demonstrate genuine appreciation.

MEDIA
Bunkmates

We trust that our campers will only bring items to camp that contribute positively to the camp atmosphere. Magazines, books, and music should align with the values fitting of the Rebbe’s camp. It goes without saying that any book, magazine or song must have strictly Jewish content and be 100% appropriate.

Technology

At CGI Detroit Teen Camp, our goal is for everyone to actively participate in fun activities, grow and be inspired, and enjoy meaningful connections with friends. As such, no devices with WiFi capability will be needed or allowed. This includes but is not limited to iPods, iPads, MP3s, smart watches, laptops or phones.

TZNIUS

As Bnos Chabad, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of Tznius, fostering an environment where these standards are maintained to the utmost degree, both within the greater camp premises and in the privacy of your bunkhouses.
We know that “א אחסיד מאכט א אסביבה“ a Chassid creates an environment. The environment we envision for our camp is one of respect and value for Torah and Halacha, and going “above the letter of the law” to fulfill Hashem’s mitzvos.

Mode of Speech

Our speech, language, and conversation must mirror the refinement and dignity
of a “ בת מלך “- a daughter of Hashem.

Dress

● We love our CGI Detroit Teen Camp t-shirts! Please keep all 9 of them in the
condition they were given, without cutting or tampering with them in any way.
● Skirts must cover the knees at all times, including when sitting.
● Short skirts should be worn with tights.
● To guarantee complete coverage of legs and feet, if you choose to wear socks
with your tights, only crew socks or higher are permitted.
● Fishnet or lace tights with holes that leave the skin uncovered are not allowed in
camp.
● No slits or holes are permitted in skirts, regardless of size.
● Our bunkhouses are our personal “sevivahs”. In that spirit, we follow Tznius
standards in the bunkhouse at all times.
● No nail polish, acrylic nails, or makeup are allowed in camp.
● Even in a pool setting we maintain a sensitivity to Tznius. No bikinis or tankinis
allowed.
● Hair beading, cornrows, and hair dyeing is not allowed.

SHABBOS

Shabbos is a gift from Hashem to us. There's a saying: "More than the Jews have kept Shabbos, Shabbos has kept us." Thankfully, in our times, we don't have to sacrifice our lives or livelihoods to keep Shabbos, but there may be a perceived sacrifice of some "comfort." In Detroit Teen Camp, the holiness of Shabbos permeates all aspects of our activities, especially in our attire. We dress in a way that is Shabbosdik and fitting for this holy day. In the outside world, they would refer to Shabbos clothing as formal attire.
● Throughout Shabbos formal footwear and clothing must be worn. No sneakers or casual wear (ex. sweatshirts) will be permitted.

Everyone is welcome to join, have a great time, and grow together with us at CGI Detroit Teen Camp, regardless of level or background, as long as these guidelines are respected. With warm wishes for much hatzlacha in preparing for “ זומער געזונטע א “,   Mrs. Gillie Shanowitz Detroit Teen Camp Director Phone: (646) 573-6773 Email: dtcdirector@cgidetroit.com