Reflections on Kayitz 2026 as of July 31: Ramah Canada, our Tikvah disabilities inclusion programs, and Ramah Galim.

During Shabbat Tikvah tefillot at Camp Ramah in Canada, campers share moments of gratitude during Birkot Hashachar. This exercise in blessing is easily one of the most heartwarming experiences each summer. Deep friendships, Shabbat brownies, swimming, and an eagerly anticipated birthday for a veteran Tikvah camper were all framed beautifully and authentically.

Magshimim & Tikvah Shabbat at Camp Ramah in Canada

Spending time with Tikvah campers across our camps is truly a blessing of gratitude in itself. These programs are a cornerstone of the Ramah experience, providing a unique, inclusive, and inspirational Jewish home for children, teens, and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

This summer, there are more than 650 campers and young adults enrolled in our Tikvah and vocational programs. A special blessing of gratitude goes to the counselors, rashei edot, and Tikvah directors who staff these programs—their warmth, empathy, dedication, and tireless work are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Shabbat Tikvah '26 Rikud & Shir at Camp Ramah New England

**Atzmayim Vocational Program at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin**

Graduating Tikvah campers continue their Ramah journeys in many of our camps’ vocational skills programs. They gain valuable experience in customer service, food preparation, and being part of a business. Our vocational program participants develop essential skills and greater independence. Many build on their Ramah work experiences to gain competitive employment in those same fields later on.

Camp Ramah in Northern California (Ramah Galim)—situated right on the shores of the Pacific Ocean—is a majestic setting where the beach and ocean take center stage in camp life and offer quiet moments of gratitude. Tefillot Afloat on boogie boards, Havdalah on the beach, and Jewish learning circles nestled along the cliffs are all part of this stunning environment. A favorite highlight of Ramah Galim’s B’toch Hayam program is "Tuesday Choose-day." This past week, campers chose from morning hikes, squid printing, surfing in Santa Cruz, and hands-on recycling projects.

Whether we are gathered along the rocky cliffs of the Pacific or sitting together in a makom tefillah, these moments remind us of what makes Ramah so extraordinary. Seeing our campers embrace gratitude, build deep connections, and find joy in the world around them fills us with immense hope. As we cling to the last weeks of summer, we carry these blessings with us—thankful for the vibrant, inclusive communities we have built together.

Gratitude and Hope, From Tikvah to the Sea