The Man Behind the Scenes: Meet Jordan Levy

When campers arrive at Sephardic Adventure Camp, they see an exciting schedule filled with activities, traditions, and unforgettable experiences. What many don't see is the incredible amount of planning that happens long before opening day. Behind much of that work is Jordan Levy.

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Jordan is now in his fourth year serving behind the scenes, managing scheduling and operations, one of the most demanding roles at camp. Months before campers unpack their bags, Jordan is already hard at work building schedules, coordinating logistics, and making sure every detail is in place.

The job isn't easy. In fact, after his first summer, Jordan wasn't sure he would return because of the workload. But something changed.

"The staff really took care of me," he shares. "They appreciated my efforts."

That appreciation, and the strong sense of community, kept him coming back. Over the years, Jordan has even brought family and friends to experience what makes SAC so special.

Last year, he had not planned on working at camp, but when circumstances surrounding the situation in Israel created unexpected challenges, Jordan answered the call once again, stepping in at the last minute to help wherever he was needed.

That willingness to serve is simply who he is. Jordan is the kind of person who notices what needs to be done and takes care of it without waiting to be asked. Whether it's scheduling, operations, or even helping younger bunks do Toranut, he is always ready to help the team.

Unlike many staff members, Jordan never experienced summer camp as a camper. Instead, he discovered camp from the other side, working behind the scenes to make each summer possible. Through that experience, he has developed a deep appreciation for SAC's traditions, built lasting friendships, and become an integral part of the camp community. What began as an opportunity to help with scheduling and operations has grown into a meaningful connection with the people and values that make SAC so special.

Jordan's own journey at SAC has also been one of discovery. As a proud Moroccan Jew with family roots in Casablanca and Marrakesh, camp introduced him to traditions outside his own community for the very first time. At SAC, he experienced the customs of the Turkish and Rhodesli Jewish communities and developed a deep appreciation for how closely they remain connected to their heritage.

At the same time, he has been touched by the way SAC celebrates his own Moroccan traditions as well, especially during Shabbat.

"It's a great opportunity to grow and learn about other customs," he says.

One tradition that especially surprised him was Shabbat lunch.

"I thought the light dairy lunch on Shabbat was just a camp thing, maybe even a budget decision," he laughs. "Moroccans usually have a very meat-heavy lunch. Then I learned it was actually a long-standing community custom."

For Jordan, experiences like these are what make SAC unique: preserving cherished traditions while creating meaningful opportunities to learn from one another.

Working alongside camp leadership has also shaped him personally. Watching the last two camp directors lead through both everyday challenges and difficult situations inspired Jordan to become more involved in his own community. Today, he serves on the board of his local synagogue and hopes to one day help build a camp experience for children in Toronto.

He also believes campers have an important responsibility beyond simply having fun.

Since SAC rents facilities from other camps, Jordan reminds everyone that every interaction is an opportunity to create a Kiddush Hashem—representing the Jewish community with kindness, respect, and integrity.

When asked what he would tell someone considering SAC, his answer is immediate.

"You need to come to Seattle for camp."

He believes the togetherness, traditions, and immersive experience are unlike anything else.

"It's one thing to visit a different synagogue for Shabbat," he says. "It's another thing to be immersed in a community for two or three weeks."

Jordan also believes that SAC's unique identity is one of its greatest strengths.

"SAC is a Turkish and Rhodesli camp, and it should stay like that. SAC knows what they're doing."

While most campers may never see the countless hours Jordan spends behind the scenes, every activity, every smooth transition, and every unforgettable camp day reflects his dedication. His quiet leadership, willingness to serve, and love for the SAC community help make camp possible, and for that, everyone has something to be grateful for.