One Happy Camper
One Happy Camper is a program of the Foundation for Jewish Camp (FJC), in partnership with Jewish Federations, foundations, and camps across North America. In Rochester, the program is administered by the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester and funded by the Max and Marian Charitable Foundation. The Rochester One Happy Camper program provides incentive grants of up to $1800 to children attending nonprofit, Jewish overnight camp for the first time. The grant works to introduce more children to the magic of Jewish camp.
We know that for children, Jewish camp is just plain fun. But it’s also much more than that—it’s camp with a soul. At camp, kids get the chance to explore who they are—and who they want to become—in an inspiring, fun-filled environment. Whether they’re playing basketball, ziplining or dancing with their friends, Jewish camp creates a community of campers—and young leaders—who feel sure of themselves and proud of their heritage. Click here for the eligible camp list. There are over 190 camps to choose from, including camps specializing in sports, arts, science, outdoor adventures, waterfront and special needs.
Our Two Tiered Approach
First-Year Campers: A Jewish Overnight Camping Incentive Program
Is your child a first time camper? Give your child an unforgettable Jewish summer camp experience. Incentive grants of $1,800 are available to campers attending an approved Jewish overnight camp for 19 or more consecutive days.
Not going to camp for a whole 19 days? We still want to help you. A $1000 grant is available for first time campers enrolled in camp for 12-18 consecutive days.
Second-Year Campers: Craving More after Year One? Come Back for Year Two!
The Rochester community is unique in that it offers needs-based grants of $1,000 to second-year campers attending an approved Jewish overnight camp for 19 or more consecutive days. A $500 needs- based grant is available for second time campers enrolled in camp for 12-18 consecutive days.
To be eligible for a second year grant, annual household income must be less than $100,000.
Is My Child Eligible?
To be eligible for a One Happy Camper grant, typically your child must:
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Be registered for an overnight camp listed on the Foundation for Jewish Camp’s website
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Be attending an approved overnight camp for the first time for at least 12 consecutive days
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Consider himself/herself Jewish
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Live in the Greater Rochester Area
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive financial aid from the camp in addition to a One Happy Camper grant?
Yes. Camps also maintain their own lists of scholarships and can provide additional assistance. Some synagogues may also provide grants or financial aid.
My child has previously been to a Jewish summer camp for less than 12 days. Is my child still eligible to receive the One Happy Camper grant?
Yes! Your child is still eligible for the grant.
Can I apply for a One Happy Camper Grant for more than one of my children?
Yes. The number of One Happy Camper grants per family is not limited.
When is the application deadline?
There is no deadline for the One Happy Camper grant but grants are provided on a first-come first-served basis.
How long will it take to be notified that my grant application has been approved?
Please allow four to eight weeks for your child’s camp to receive confirmation of the grant approval. Once your child’s camp registration has been confirmed, funding will be sent directly to the camp starting in late spring and continuing through the summer.