B’TZELEM ELOKIM
One of Judaism’s most important values is the idea that each human being is
created “b’tzelem elokim - in the image of God." At Ramah, this value is
expressed in the way we dress, and in the way we speak and act toward one
another. Sensitivity, patience, respect and compassion are expected of
every member of the Ramah community.
Certain norms in secular society challenge the notion that we are created
“in the image of God." Societal trends such as tattoos and body piercing
negate the underlying Jewish value that our bodies are to be viewed as
vessels of holiness, entrusted to our care by God. Campers and staff members
are therefore reminded that tattoos are prohibited by halacha (Jewish law),
and therefore must be covered at camp at all times.
While earrings may be acceptable halachically, excessive body piercing is
not.
Similarly, the clothes we wear send a message. They transmit a sense of our
values and our self-respect. Clothing worn at camp should not be overly
revealing, especially clothing worn at t’filot. Additionally, designs on
shirts and jackets may not promote alcohol, drugs, sex, nudity or ethnic
hatred, nor should they contain profanity.
WITHDRAWAL OF CAMPER
If a child is to be withdrawn on an INVOLUNTARY basis, i.e. where the camp
requires the parents to withdraw the child, A REFUND OF THE TUITION FEES IS
MADE TO THE PARENTS ON A PRO-RATED BASIS, LESS THE ADMINISTRATIVE FEE OF
$600.00.
THERE ARE NO REFUNDS FOR VOLUNTARY WITHDRAWALS OF CAMPERS. Voluntary
withdrawals are, for example: child is homesick, bunk placement is
undesirable, parents miss the child, change in family plans, family
vacations, and promises made by parents to withdraw the child after a “trial
period at camp". We urge you not to make “deals" with your child to “try it
for a while". Such promises usually make it impossible for a child to adjust
to camp properly.
SPECIAL NOTE: Ramah is an ongoing educational experience. Please do not
interrupt or cut short your child's experience at camp by scheduling events
that will take him/her out of camp.
BAR/BAT MITZVAH TRAINING
Camp Ramah is happy to assign staff members to review Bar or Bat Mitzvah
preparations with those campers whose Bar or Bat Mitzvah falls in the months
of August-December 2008. If you are interested in this opportunity, please
fill out the enclosed form and send it to the camp office as soon as
possible.
Please be sure that your child brings all necessary books and/or tapes to
camp. The camp staff is happy to review what your child has already
learned, but cannot be responsible for teaching new material, which might
not be taught in the exact manner desired by your local synagogue.
Bunk1 | Visitors' Day| Parent Handbook 
