Kerem (Counselors in Training)

Kerem, our oldest Ayda (division) in camp for rising 11th graders, is the culminating experience of a camper’s Camp Yavneh journey.  Our Kerem chanichim (campers) hold a unique position in our camp, as the leaders of many special programs and activities, and as role models for the rest of the camper community.  

Kerem is:

• An incredible learning opportunity
• A chance for personal growth and leadership development
• A way to begin making the transition from being a chanich/a (camper) to being a madrich/a (counselor)
• A special experience that gives participants a chance to form deep and meaningful relationships with our younger campers
• A way for participants to make an important impact and leave a positive legacy at Camp Yavneh
• An amazing summer of bonding and fun with the rest of the Kerem ayda

In addition to the CIT experience, Kerem campers have the opportunity to:

• Delve deeply into learning about Israeli culture and community in preparation for their Na’aleh summer (for Camp Yavneh’s rising 12th grade campers)
• Design and execution of a Kerem chesed project
• Experience special Kerem trips and “Yemei Achla” including a two-day whitewater rafting excursion and a day trip to Boston
• Play special leadership roles on Shabbat, including leading Friday night Z'mirot, giving a Shabbat morning Dvar Torah, and leading Kiddush.

In order to be accepted into the Kerem program, you must demonstrate maturity, responsibility, good behavior, good peer relations, a commitment to Klal Yisrael, and the ability to supervise younger children independently for short periods of time.

Kerem requires a full summer commitment.

Kerem 2027 Dates: Monday, June 21 – Tuesday, August 10, 2026

If you have any questions about the Kerem experience, please contact Camp Yavneh Director Josh Micley ([email protected]).

Next: Na'aleh