Organized at the initiative of the Jewish community of Lugansk and under the leadership of Chief Rabbi of Lugansk Region Shalom Gopin and his wife Chana, the camp has gradually expanded from involving youngsters from this east Ukrainian region to also including kids from communities across the country.
Jewish Camp Unites Youngsters From Across Ukraine
Lugansk, Ukraine — The ‘Gan Israel’ Camp has wrapped up its 2007 season in Ukraine’s Lugansk Region. This is the seventh year in a row that children have had the opportunity to take part in this educational and spiritual health retreat.
Organized at the initiative of the Jewish community of Lugansk and under the leadership of Chief Rabbi of Lugansk Region Shalom Gopin and his wife Chana, the camp has gradually expanded from involving youngsters from this east Ukrainian region to also including kids from communities across the country.
Recruited from yeshivot and other institutions of higher education, Jewish youth from Ukraine and overseas volunteered to serve as counselors. Having undergone an intensive training seminar held by the ‘Avi Chai’ Foundation, they were even more prepared for this satisfying challenge.
This and dozens of other ‘Gan Israel’ Camps held throughout the Former Soviet Union give Jewish kids the chance to learn about, live and embrace their Jewish heritage. These golden opportunities are afforded through the sponsorship of the Avi Chai Foundation, the Ohr Avner Foundation and the generosity of Lev and Olga Leviev.
