A Gift That Will Shape Generations
We are thrilled to announce an incredible opportunity for Jewish families across Greater Kansas City: The Bushman Gift of Camp!
For generations, Jewish overnight camp has helped children build lifelong friendships, discover their independence, strengthen their Jewish identity and create memories that stay with them for years to come. Thanks to an incredible gift to our community, we are making that experience accessible to more Kansas City children and families than ever before.
The Bushman Gift of Camp covers 75% of overnight camp tuition, up to $4,000 per child, for first-time and returning campers at eligible Jewish overnight camps.
This remarkable gift represents an investment in the future of our Jewish community, giving children the opportunity to grow, connect and discover what it means to be part of something special.
National studies by the Foundation for Jewish Camp and Brandeis University found that nearly two-thirds of young adults who attended Jewish overnight camp credit it with their continued involvement in Jewish life.
We know camp builds four things that last:
belonging · leadership · joy · identity
And through the Bushman Gift of Camp, we are excited to bring these experiences within reach for families throughout Greater Kansas City.
Who can apply
Jewish children who identify as Jewish and permanently reside in the Greater Kansas City area, including Topeka and Lawrence, Kansas and St. Joseph, Missouri.
First-time and returning overnight campers of any camp-eligible age. Every eligible child in a family may receive the gift.
Campers attending a Foundation for Jewish Camp-affiliated overnight summer camp.
Learn more about the program, eligibility, and how to apply at bushmangiftofcamp.org.
Questions? Please contact Jessica Kroll, Manager, Bushman Camp and Community Experiences, via email or at (913) 327-8163.
A 12-step, step study group for the Jewish community is meeting at 5:00pm on Wednesdays at Congregation Beth Shalom. It follows an Al-Anon step-study format but is meant to be an “all recovery” meeting for Jewish people and people who are part of our Jewish community. It is for those who are curious about the 12 steps and those who are already familiar with them. To get location information, email kcjewish12step@gmail.com.
Thank you to the following coffee shops for hosting our coffee-themed Small Group! We are grateful for your generosity, and the inclusive, community feel that pervades your shops. They do a wonderful job of bringing community together!
Marwan Chebaro of Nour’s Coffee at 3855 Warwick
Amante Domingo of Le Champion Coffee at 4140 Pennsylvania
Shelly Grahm of Summer Moon Coffee at 9127 Metcalf
Travis of Odyssey Coffee at 5247 W 95th
David Bedasso of Revocup at 11822 W. 135th
JFS is here for our community
Whether it’s everyday needs or a crisis, JFS is working to bring additional resources and support services to members of our community. If you need support, please contact the JFS Navigator at (913) 730-1433. For a list of services JFS provides, visit us at www.jfskc.org.
GIVE BACK! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED IN VARIOUS JEWISH FAMILY SERVICES EFFORTS
Looking to give back to your community? Jewish Family Services has lots of volunteer opportunities and will work with your schedule. Volunteer opportunities include:
- KesherKC Food Pantries Shopper: The Food Pantry Shopper Volunteer will work with the Food Pantry Coordinator to serve the needs of our guests/clients through weekly food distribution. This volunteer will be helping guest/client identify and select items for their households according to food distribution guidelines.
- KS Food Pantry Delivery Drivers: The KS Food Pantry Delivery Driver will work with the KS Food Pantry Coordinator to serve the needs of our guests/clients through monthly food distribution. Many homebound individuals in the Kansas City Metro region rely on JFS to provide food and our delivery drivers help make this happen! If you have two hours a month to serve others and make a real impact—we have a job for you!
- JET Express Drivers: Jet Express drivers utilize their personal vehicle to provide rides for older adults and other community members. Volunteers provide safe and reliable transportation ensuring members of our community remain active, healthy, and connected to their community.
- Spiritual Care Volunteers: These volunteers work with the Jewish Community Chaplain to extend care to those in need. These volunteers visit people in the Jewish community who are experiencing health and healing challenges. After receiving training, volunteers visit people in area hospitals and eldercare facilities and sometime home visits.
For more information visit https://www.jfskc.org/volunteer/ or email volunteer@jfskc.org or call (913) 730-1410
