A Journey of Jewish Awakening: How Camp Revealed the Beauty of Torah Life
When her family arrived in America from the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, being Jewish was an identity they knew but didn’t actively practice. Like so many others, they were the “once-a-year” Jews, attending shul only on the High Holidays. Judaism was a thread in their history but not yet a vibrant part of their lives.
In the early 2010s, her family began exploring their faith, attending conservative synagogues until, eventually, they found Chabad. In 2013, she took a leap into something new—attending Camp Gan Israel Poconos. This was her first real exposure to Orthodox Judaism and the first time she experienced an immersive Jewish environment.
That summer changed everything. From the blessings on food to the beauty of davening on Shabbos, she soaked up every moment, realizing how much she had never known. Camp was a revelation—a place where Judaism wasn’t just a set of rules but a way of life, filled with joy, friendship, and deep meaning.
Beyond the knowledge she gained, camp gave her something even more valuable: a community. She met Jewish friends who, like her, were navigating their own journeys of discovery. She saw firsthand that Judaism wasn’t just something of the past—it was alive, personal, and hers to embrace.
By the time she returned home, something had shifted. Still in public school, she quietly committed to dressing modestly—a powerful reflection of the transformation within her.
Her growth sparked change in her family. Her younger brothers became more involved in Jewish life, and their home slowly embraced Shabbos and kosher observance.
Determined to continue her Jewish education, she chose a high school that required a long commute. For two years, she traveled two hours each way to immerse herself in the environment she had come to love. Eventually, her family moved closer, solidifying their commitment to a Torah-observant life.
Her passion only grew. She became a CTeen leader, channeling the inspiration she first found at CGI Poconos into guiding others. After three summers at camp, she was now helping others on their journeys.
In August 2021, her story came full circle—she met her husband Allen, built a Jewish home, and recently graduated from nursing school. Looking back, she credits CGI Poconos as the place where it all began.
Karina’s journey shows the lasting impact of camp. It’s more than just a summer experience—it’s a foundation for life. The lessons learned at CGI Poconos continue to shape her path, guiding her toward a future rooted in Jewish values.
