Breaking Out as One in Gesher

by Rokki Parrinello

This year I have been gifted the opportunity to work as a member of  Segel (faculty) for Gesher Aleph. This is the first time in the history of OSRUI that Gesher has been a unit during the first two weeks of the summer. Each Eidah (unit) has its own unique style and focus. Gesher focus is on developing leadership and developing a strong sense of community. This morning the Chanichim participated in a breakout learning session. The Gesher Campers were given a box that contained 6 Word Locks. Each of the six Va’adot, or groups, had to work collaboratively within their group and within their Eidah as whole to unlock each of the locks to find out what was inside the box. The clues were tied to the concepts of relationships found within the T’filot in our siddurim.

Even though this was the first time that our unit had the opportunity to learn together, it was amazing to watch the campers collaborate together to problem solve, think critically, troubleshoot, and just have fun as they did their best to open all six locks to get inside the box. Since all of the chanichim (camper) in Gesher were aiming toward the same goal, they listened together, were open to helping each other and were extremely supportive. Through this experience, they learned and utilized all the skills necessary to form a strong a strong and supportive community. I can’t wait to see how the chanichim in Gesher will put their community and leadership skills to work over the next two weeks as we continue to work towards becoming one.

Kol Tuv,

Rokki Parrinello

Co-Principal

Beth Tikvah Congregation

Hoffman Estates, Illinois