Reflections – SAC CIT Program 2019
Our SAC CIT Program this year included 14 participants from Vancouver BC, Los Angeles, CA, Seattle, WA, Boca Raton, Fl, Rochester, NY and Riverdale, NY. The team was lead by staff members Roxanna Sikavi, Raphael Alcabes and Quinn Rose. Here are some reflections of the program:
Bodhi Zick, Seattle, WA. Last year was my first year at Sephardic Adventure Camp, and it was absolutely amazing. I met a bunch of new people, really enjoyed the programming, and learned a lot about Sephardic Judaism. Last year I was in B4; the last bunk before campers start making the transition to becoming counselors. When I finished camp last year, even though it had been my first year, I knew that I just had to be a counselor. So this year, I signed up for the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program. This program has given me not only valuable management and leadership resources and opportunities, but also the chance to participate in some really fun recreational activities as well. These experiences also helped to bond me and my friends, and show us our strengths and weaknesses.
One of the first responsibilities we were tasked with as CITs was to run Color War, a friendly competition between two teams. During Color War, the counselors take a step back, and the competition is almost completely run by us. This forces the CITs to work together to make sure their team is on top of every category there is, and actively gain experience working with the younger bunks at the camp. I think my Co-CIT’s and I have learned a lot about ourselves through this experience including how to navigate the logistics of running a program while managing a group of campers, and representing the camp as role models.
Anna Jacoby, Seattle, WA This year we were able to do so many fun and interesting things off-site. For starters we went to the historical town of Astoria, Or where we visited the Columbia River Maritime Museum which is the official state maritime museum of Oregon. I highly recommend a visit to this quality museum if you’re anywhere near Astoria. We also walked up all 164 spiral steps of the Astor Column. Once we made it to the top, we gazed out at the 360 degree panoramic view and flew our little toy airplanes off.
Our white water rafting experience was also very fun! It took place in Mill City, OR. on the Santiam River and it was super adventurous experience as we went down some pretty big rapids in 3 rafts. It was a little scary in an exhilarating way!
Mid-way through camp we were lucky enough to have the opportunity to go surfing in Longbeach, WA! We had to wake up very early to go, so we were a little slow to get excited, but the weather was sunny and we kept an open mind. First we had a lesson, then we hit the waves! In the end it was an amazing experience! We all made it up on our boards which was a gratifying bonus!
Odi Sawdayi, Beverly Hills, CA One of my favorite highlights was the overnight in Portland, OR. We got so much closer on that trip and did so many fun things. Being a part of the CIT program really made my summer. I loved the kayayking, surfing, go-carting, bumper cars and much more!
Leiana Kahlon, Vancouver, BC The last few days of Sephardic Adventure Camp the CIT’s got the privilege of experiencing what it really feels like to be part of the SAC staff. Some got to be counselors and others helped in operations. I was able to work in the kitchen. It was hard work but it was such a fun experience and I really enjoyed helping out. I can’t wait for next year!
