Ramah L’Kulam

Dear Ramah New England Community,

When Jon and I got engaged, we compromised on some things, like most couples do. Ramah was a no-compromise issue. It was a given that camp would be part of our lives for the long haul. My grandparents and mother worked at Ramah, beginning in the 1960s, to make it possible for my entire family to have life-changing experiences at Ramah. Ramah is foundational to my Jewish life and to how I see the world.

I can see the full range of Ramah’s profound long-term impacts. We joined a chavurah with local like-minded Jews based on our love of shira (singing) and Kabbalat Shabbat. My sisters kept in touch with their camp friends on FaceTime during the pandemic. I’ve witnessed the incredible ruach of campers who have traveled far to be with their friends as they become B’nai Mitzvah. I see the tight relationships that have been forged with Ramah’s shlichim (Israeli emissaries).

The tight, lifelong friendships and memories that are forged at Ramah spring from Ramah’s ability to hear the voices of our young people – something I saw with my own eyes in the 1980s when my extraordinary yoetzim inspired me to become a psychotherapist. Our young people want to be seen and understood for who they are. Ramah strives to listen to them to address their needs and nurture their personal growth, spirituality, and connectedness to community.

Ramah needs your help to hear the voices of our youth. Your support will provide them with the scholarship aid and individual support that they need. Your help will deliver high-level activities that build personal confidence. Your generosity will ensure that every day is filled with joyous Judaism.

Our lives have been remarkably enriched by our connection to Ramah. With your help, Ramah can continue to provide a place where the voices of our youth can be heard.

Wishing you and your family a Hanukkah Sameach!

Aliza Yellin Lerner and Jon Lerner
2024 Ramah L’Kulam Co-chairs