“Camp Gave Me Life”, Final Week at Camp Lman Achai
The final week of Camp L’man Achai was an unforgettable experience. On Tisha B’Av night, the boys gathered around the fireplace to listen to a captivating story about the Beis Hamikdash. Throughout the day, they enjoyed various activities, including Shofar making, candle making, leather, and wallet crafting.
On Wednesday, the teens embarked on a two-day adventure. Their first stop was a thrilling boat tour of the Thousand Islands, followed by lunch and a fun-filled bowling session. Afterwards, they headed to Star Lake, where they set up tents and enjoyed a beautiful bonfire.
The next morning, after davening and breakfast, the group went on a wild trip to white water rafting. The staff were impressed with the boys’ conduct and teamwork. Following the rafting trip, they visited the Fort Drum Museum, and started their trip back to camp.
Meanwhile, back in camp, the main camp woke up early on Thursday to head to New York City. They visited the Rebbe’s Ohel, where they sang Nigunim, recited Pesukim, and read the Panim they had written. Many campers became very emotional during their first experience at the Ohel.
Next, they headed to Crown Heights, where they enjoyed a treasure hunt, exploring Judaica stores, Kosher bakeries, and Hasofer, where they saw how Torahs are written. They also visited the Rebbe’s library and the Rebbe’s room. After a pizza party lunch, they participated in a rally in 770, featuring guest speaker Rabbi Shimmy Weinbaum. The day concluded with Mincha, ice cream at Sweet Expressions, and a train ride to Manhattan.
In Manhattan, the campers proudly sang Jewish songs and offered many Jews the opportunity to put on Tefilin. They took cable cars to Roosevelt Island, then ferried to lower Manhattan, and walked across the Brooklyn Bridge. Supper was served at Chabad of Brooklyn Heights, courtesy of the Raskin family.
The final Erev Shabbos in camp was filled with excitement, especially during Chalah baking and Shabbos preparations. Shabbos was extra special, with plenty of singing, camp songs, and Farbrengens with staff. On Sunday, camp championships took place, followed by the camp banquet. During the banquet, campers had an opportunity to share their camp experience. Ethan L. shared how camp helped transform his life, and Galor M. spoke about the positive impact camp has on him and his family.
The staff is keeping in touch with their campers and their families to help bring the camp spirit to their homes and communities.
