With Keshet support, kids, teens and young adults thrive at day and overnight camps. Whether learning a new swim stroke or participating in a talent show, camp provides the ideal setting for campers to continue growing, learning, socializing and, of course, having fun. Keshet sets the stage for creating lifelong memories and friendships.
Registration for Summer 2024 will open in the fall.
Information will be available before October 10.
Keshet is a national leader in facilitating inclusive camp programs where campers with disabilities participate to the greatest possible extent in the full camp experience. Campers with and without disabilities do all camp activities together, eat together and, at overnight camp, live together.
Campers with developmental disabilities or other complex needs benefit from Keshet’s expertise in providing individualized accommodations, behavioral supports and one-on-one care. Each camp site has a Keshet site director and/or inclusion coordinator who works closely with staff to make sure each camper’s individual needs are met.
Keshet works with outstanding partner camps and organizations that are deeply committed to promoting inclusion. With 18 day and overnight camp locations, Keshet has a camp program that fits nearly any interest, special need and background. We are proud to partner with JCC Chicago day and overnight camps, Junior Gan Israel, Camp Nageela Midwest and Ramah Day Camp.
Keshet’s very own day camp for ages 12-21 provides a structured program, positive peer interaction and a nurturing environment.
Days are filled with camp activities–sports, art, music, fitness, drama, yoga, science, dance and more. Special events include community outings to go swimming, explore nature, play at parks and volunteer with community organizations.
A highlight each summer is the Teen & Tween Overnight Trip for 4 days/nights at a nearby overnight camp.
A TRADITION OF INCLUSION
For over 30 years, Keshet has fostered inclusion at JCC Chicago day camps. Hundreds and hundreds of families have relied on Keshet to ensure that their child has the individualized supports needed for a successful summer.
At Keshet, our sole mission is to make inclusion possible and then create experiences that allow for genuine belonging. Our experienced social workers, special education teachers, therapists and recreation professionals do this 365 days/year and bring their expertise to creating the best possible camp experiences for all.
Inclusive camp programming is made possible through the collaboration of Keshet, JCC Chicago and Jewish United Fund.
Keshet also provides inclusion support at other nearby Jewish overnight camps.
Keshet and JCC Camp Chi partner to provide a fully inclusive camp experience.
3rd-10th grade
Avodah is a vocational skill-building program at Camp Chi for 16-22 year-olds who are ready (or close to ready) for independent work. Through rotations and assigned job placements throughout camp, participants will gain life and job skills while also having opportunities for recreation. Support ratio 1:3.
16-22 years old
Gesher is designed especially for teens through age 22 who are seeking summer fun and a break from being at home. Gesher is a camp where “you can be you” with a choice of activities, structured free time and plenty of opportunities for fun. Support ratio of 1:1 or 1:2.
16-22 years old
Experience a summer’s worth of fun and adventure in 4 days/3 nights of overnight camp.
2nd-6th grade
Ramah Day Camp ensures that every camper feels at home, with a deep connection to Jewish values and traditions. Keshet provides 1:1 support for campers, fostering inclusion and belonging for campers of all abilities.
Pre-K-8th Grade
Complete the application to let us know your interest. Our staff will then be in touch with next steps.
Please contact us with any questions or to discuss which program option is best for you child.
Day Camp: Drew McNamara, Program Manager at dmcnamara@keshet.org or 630.566.9859
Overnight Camp: Polly Cheeseman, Program Manager at pcheeseman@keshet.org or 630.566.9391