Getting Ready For Camp

The new boardwalk is under construction.

When the snow clears in Glen Spey, and the leaves on trees begin to bud, the Camp Simcha season begins with a rush of activity. Cottages and buildings are cleaned, stocks of supplies are laid for the summer months, and the lawns are reseeded for the summer.
This Spring Camp Simcha is getting a whole new look and makeover in addition to its annual maintenance. While the camp will look beautiful, the changes are intended to enhance functioning for campers of all abilities.

“We’re very grateful for the extraordinary generosity of supporters and friends who understand how important it is for Camp Simcha to remain a state-of-the-art summer camp program for children and teens living with serious illnesses,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar.

Some of the changes are purely functional, like the doors to the “spa,” the floor that contains six roomy fully accessible bath and shower facilities for our most compromised campers. Camp director Nachman Maimon explained that changing the direction of one of the entrance doors and adding an electric opener will facilitate entry and egress for campers in wheelchairs. Additionally, the gym is getting a new endoskeleton: wall supports that will extend the life of the structure.

The new canteen features furniture that’s both fun and functional.

Other additions and renovations are a mix of practical and beautiful. Campers will be agog at the new canteen, which was stripped to its studs and totally remade. In addition to a candy-themed mural, the canteen features tables created from gumballs and benches painted to look like ice cream sandwiches. The top to bottom makeover is a gift from the campers of Camp Morasha, who raised the money through Chai-a-Thon campaigns.

This colorful logo will adorn the gym floor.

A new boardwalk now abuts the camp lake and increases camp’s “WOW” factor. The beautiful structure is fully accessible and contains seating, LED lighting and magnificent views of both the lake and the residential portion of the campus. At the other side of the campus, the gym floor is getting a handsome makeover from the foundation up, including a painted logo that rivals any professional sports team’s home turf. Finally, a new cottage in memory of Daniella Moffson, a’h, perpetuates her dedication to chesed as it optimizes Camp Simcha’s ability to care for very sick children and teens.