Florida Camp Pairs Fun with Heritage

Campers at Camp Gan Israel got down and dirty Friday as little fingers sifted through dark, moist soil looking for and analyzing worms.

As part of the “Going Green” theme, Lynn Grimes of the Linders Foundation was invited to teach the children about worm composting.

“They totally understand how to use reusable bags, recycle our plastic bottles, but they don’t always get the connection of where our soil comes from,” Grimes said. “The idea of recycling food into beautiful soil where we grow plants is fascinating.”

The children learned about upward migration bins, which contain shredded paper, and other biodegradable bedding for worms and talked about recycling.

Each child received a magnifying glass and examined plates filled with dark compost and worms.

“Worms are so easy to use; they are not contaminated with any problematic bacteria, and they will clean up toxic situations,” she said. “And kids love worms.”

The three-week camp is geared for children ages 2 to 12 and sponsored by Chabad of Venice and North Port. Camp Director Rivka Schmerling and a group of community volunteers lead the activities.

The camp’s goal is to enrich the lives of children from diverse Jewish backgrounds. It incorporates Jewish education with activities that include sports, exercise, cooking and weekly field trips.

“They have the opportunity to learn about their heritage in a fun way,” Schmerling said.