This past week, our very own director Jerry Kaye was quoted in the Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle, talking about our one-of-a-kind Chalutzim program.

“If you’ve ever been to a Jewish summer camp, you probably have memories of lifelong friendships, campfire sing-a-longs and the excitement of getting a package from home.  But did you get a chance to … speak nothing but Hebrew for an entire summer? … Tenth graders at Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI) have their own special program, chalutzim”

… “The entire program: sports, art, swimming, a three-day canoe trip, everything except for a one-hour daily discussion period, is presented in Hebrew,” [Jerry Kaye, camp director,] explains. OSRUI hires Israelis and Americans who speak fluent Hebrew to staff this unit and teach Hebrew classes.

“You have to pass a written test and demonstrate a basic ability to speak Hebrew (to be accepted),” Kaye adds. Chalutzim has become a popular choice for teens. “This summer over 80 youngsters were in the program. It’s the only program of its kind in North America,” he says, adding, that “it’s not Hebrew school.”

OSRUI also offers unique primitive camp programs for all age groups. Campers can spend the day hiking, biking, canoeing or rock climbing, then sleep in tents. Fun is incorporated into every program OSRUI offers because, Kaye adds, “If camp isn’t fun, it isn’t anything.”

Read the entire article in the Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle.

Register for Chalutzim today!  Read more about Chalutzim and other programs on our website.

As a Chalutzim camper you will live and learn in a dynamic and unique intensive Hebrew-speaking environment. You’ll have the chance to assume real responsibility for the development of the program activities. You’ll explore your connection with the land and language of the Jewish people. The Chalutzim program is a total immersion Hebrew program. In one summer, campers typically achieve the equivalent of an entire semester of public high school language ability.