Jewish Pride in Action: Camp L’man Achai’s Unforgettable New York Trip

It has been an action-packed start to the second half of the summer at Camp L’man Achai, where campers recently embarked on their highly anticipated annual trip to New York City and the Ohel following an energetic Color War. Waking up before dawn to board coach buses, the boys’ first stop was the Ohel, where they davened and reflected with panim they had prepared during learning class the night before.

The group then traveled to Crown Heights for an immersive tour featuring stops at local Judaica stores, a kosher supermarket, and a sofer’s workshop to view vintage tefillin and mezuzahs. After visiting the Rebbe’s room, the camp gathered at 770 for a rally, Mincha, and a camp photo, followed by delicious ice cream at Sweet Expressions.

From there, the campers set out to explore the rest of the city through tailored activities. The younger boys took in the New York skyline and the Statue of Liberty aboard the Staten Island Ferry, walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, and explored Lower Manhattan. Meanwhile, the teen division toured Midtown, visiting Times Square, the 9/11 Memorial, and taking in a live baseball game at Yankee Stadium. Throughout their time in Manhattan, campers proudly engaged in mivtzoim, putting on tefillin with Jewish passersby—a first-time experience of open Jewish pride for several boys.

Just days after returning to camp, the momentum continued as the campers observed a meaningful Tisha B’Av. While many boys experienced fasting for the first time, staff kept the day inspiring through hands-on educational activities, including an interactive Shofar Factory, Havdalah candle making, and crafting custom leather Challah covers and Tzedaka pouches using materials generously donated by Prestige Embroidery. Between high-energy excursions and deep spiritual growth, Camp L’man Achai continues to deliver an unforgettable summer of proud Jewish connection.