Since 1952, J Camp has been one of our favorite things here at The J. Along with the opening of the outdoor pool, it marks the start of summer and brings a new energy to our campus as we fill up with joyful campers every day.
Noah Adams, our new youth and camps director, has been busy these last couple of weeks (and months!) getting ready for this year’s session. We know y’all are curious, so we managed to slow him down long enough to answer a few questions about where he comes from and what this summer will be like for this year’s campers…
LJCC: How did you end up here at The J?
NA: Before graduating from Alabama in December, I worked as a counselor at the Tuscaloosa County Para day camp, and as an assistant director for their after-school care program. So when searching for a job after graduating, I saw this position and thought it would be a great fit.
What are some highlights that campers can look forward to this year?
What can’t they expect?! The regular J Camp will include swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, archery, sports and games — like smash ball and the gaga pit. And on what we call “the waterfront,” we’ll enhance all that pool time with Corcl boats (just wait until you see them in action) and ginormous inflatables, plus the new basketball hoop and climbing wall.
And then the specialty camps will offer chess, basketball, flag football — ROLL TIDE!, fencing, ultimate (that’s a Frisbee game), and lots more.
What are you most excited about for J Camp?
After being here for only a couple of months I’ve really come to love The J and the people here. For J Camp I’m simply looking forward to getting into my first summer and making it a great experience for everyone.
What field trips are you planning for this year?
This summer’s trips will include 3-7 graders going to Alabama Splash Adventure on July 17, and all campers will be going to Oak Mountain Park July 31.
How do you plan to incorporate Jewish values and traditions into the camp experience?
Each group will meet once a week with The J’s Director of Jewish LIfe Tzlil McDonald to learn about tarbut, which is the Hebrew word for culture. And through our “making mensches” program we’ll focus on a different Jewish value each week of camp. Every Friday the camp will have a Shabbat program featuring various visitors from the Birmingham Jewish Community.
Did you attend summer camp as a kid?
I actually never attended a summer camp as a kid, but I wish I would have gotten the chance to do so.
How can camp parents best support J Camp?
It will be most helpful if parents can simply make sure their child is prepared and ready for the day.
Is it too late to sign up for J Camp?
No! Registration will close two weeks prior to the final week of camp.
We’ve noticed that you seem to have a lot of Alabama gear…
I grew up in a family of diehard ‘Bama fans, and am one myself. And having just graduated, I have many, many ‘Bama shirts and plenty of gear.
