S'more Fun with PJA!
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![a large group of PJA Staff and families smiling posing for a picture while at their family camp activities.]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1734659590/portland/r093xiwzogxxngvpuusy/familycamp.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1734659590/portland/r093xiwzogxxngvpuusy/familycamp.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1734659590/portland/r093xiwzogxxngvpuusy/familycamp.jpg","width":800}])
S'more Fun with PJA!
Written by Emily Yeomans, a Portland Jewish Academy 1st Grade Parent.
A few weeks after settling into the new school year, 30 PJA families + several staff headed to Camp Solomon Schechter for a weekend packed with fun, friendship, and a festive Shabbat celebration. The mild weather and beautiful 175-acre forest welcomed us into the meaningful weekend ahead.
We ran around, hiked to the bog and beyond, paddled boats, and spent hours jumping on Clark, the giant inflatable waterpark on the lake. Shabbat felt extra special and was filled with joyful songs (thanks Amy!). Delicious family-style meals were shared (the matzo ball soup was epic). On Saturday night, we gathered under the stars for a magical Havdalah service, followed by a memorable, marshmallow-y bonfire.
Perhaps most importantly, we bonded with friends, old and new. The children formed new friendships as they explored the campgrounds, while parents enjoyed engaging conversations, lots of laughs, and even a few moments of sheer relaxation.
The weekend was a refreshing reminder of the joy that comes from slowing down, reconnecting with nature and with each other. When it was time to pack up and leave, we carried home not just memories, but the warmth of a stronger PJA community.
We hope you will join us next year at our 2025 PJA Family Camp! Help us choose the best weekend for your family to join us. Click Here to Vote!