Hundreds of Camp Simcha alumni and their families, current campers and staff, volunteers, and Chai Lifeline supporters gathered on the beautiful grounds of Camp Simcha in Glen Spey, NY, on Sunday, August 9, for Alumni Day — a celebration of the friendships, memories, and lifelong bonds that endure long after summer ends. The highlight was a joyous Hachnasas Sefer Torah, part of Eternal Simcha, an alumni-led initiative to dedicate a Torah at Camp Simcha. The Torah was generously dedicated by Bari and Daniel Erber as a lasting gift to the entire Camp Simcha community.
The celebration began with family activities throughout camp, including a petting zoo, laffa making, and opportunities for alumni to reconnect while introducing their spouses, children, and friends to the place that has meant so much to them. Guests also had the opportunity to participate in Kesivas Osiyos, adding letters to the Sefer Torah before joining the joyous procession that welcomed it into camp.
The Sefer Torah represents a lasting symbol of emunah, resilience, and unity for the thousands of children and families whose lives have been touched by Camp Simcha. For campers today and generations to come, it will serve as a meaningful part of camp life, accompanying countless tefillos, celebrations, and moments of inspiration.
“Camp Simcha has always been about creating joy in the face of unimaginable challenges,” said Daniel Erber. “It is an incredible privilege for our family to dedicate this Sefer Torah to a place that has given so much hope to so many children and families. Seeing generations of campers, alumni, and supporters celebrate together made this day even more meaningful. We hope this Torah will inspire every child who comes through Camp Simcha for years to come.”
“Today’s celebration was about much more than welcoming a Sefer Torah,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “It was a beautiful reminder that the Camp Simcha family continues to grow long after campers leave for the summer. We are deeply grateful to Bari and Dani Erber and their family for this extraordinary gift, which will inspire children and families and strengthen this community for generations.”
Since 1987, Camp Simcha, Chai Lifeline’s medically supervised overnight camp for children living with serious illness, has created unforgettable summers for thousands of children. Alumni Day serves as a celebration of that lasting impact, bringing generations of staff, volunteers, families and supporters together while reaffirming Chai Lifeline’s commitment to providing hope, joy, and community to children and families facing serious illness.
To learn more about Chai Lifeline, visit www.chailifeline.org.
