Each summer, Keshet hosts Zoom calls to help families prepare for camp. They’re meant to cover the basics—what to pack, how transportation works and what a typical day looks like.
The recent call for Gesher, Keshet’s overnight camp program for teens and young adults with disabilities, started just like that. Polly Cheeseman, Keshet’s Overnight Camp Manager, walked families through everything they needed to feel confident and ready.
She wrapped up the logistics quickly. The call could have ended there. But it didn’t.
Instead, families began un-muting themselves and talking to one another. They shared favorite sensory-friendly items, labeling tips, even recommendations for ensuring campers in wheelchairs have all the equipment they need to be successful at camp.
What followed was nearly an hour of connection. Some families were new to Gesher and nervous about sending their child to overnight camp for the first time. Others had years of experience and offered reassurance, practical advice and a warm welcome. One parent even recognized another: “I think we met when our girls were little. I can’t wait for them to be at camp together this summer!”
It became more than an information session. It became a reflection of what Keshet is at its core—a strong, supportive community where families show up for each other in real and meaningful ways. For families raising kids with disabilities, it’s rare to find a space where you don’t have to explain, where other parents just get it. But at Keshet, that sense of understanding and belonging starts early. By the time camp begins, many families already feel like they’re part of something bigger.
Now that summer is underway, our Gesher staff—who have come from all over the world—have spent the past week training, bonding and preparing for the summer ahead. They’re ready. The families are ready. And the first group of Gesher overnight campers begins this week!
Camp is just beginning. The community is already here.
And it keeps growing! Inspired by moments like this, a Keshet parent recently started a Facebook group to help families connect, share tips and support each other all year long.
