What Makes us Unique?
What makes Camp Shomria so different from every other camp is the distinct sense of family that shows itself in all aspects of life at Shomria. Unlike some camps Shomria has chosen to stay small, with an average of 120 campers at a time. This means that all of the campers, from youngest to oldest have a chance to get to know one another.
Another advantage is that Camp Shomria attracts campers from all over Canada and the world, including Israel, France, Germany, Italy, Colombia, United States.
Finally, Shomria's concept of "youth leading youth" puts emphasis on self-realization and self-reliance. This shows itself in all the things we do, including our sports (in which all are encouraged to play, regardless of ability or skill), our discussions (a fundamental rule of which is respect for all points of view), and even kvutzah (group) names, which are chosen by each kvutzah to represent them all.
Hashomer Hatzair
Camp Shomria is a part of Hashomer Hatzair (the Young Guard), a leftist Socialist-Zionist Youth Movement.
The oldest of the Zionist youth groups Hashomer Hatzair has played a very active role in Jewish history. Shomrim (members of Hashomer Hatzair) were among the first pioneers of the State of Israel. Mordechai Anilewicz, the leader of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising was the head of the Warsaw chapter of Hashomer Hatzair in the Ghetto.
Throughout the year, members of Hashomer Hatzair take part in seminars, workshops, celebrations of Jewish holidays, including excursions and debates about their Jewish identity and their linkage to the State of Israel. There are also weekly activities held at the "ken".
Coming to the Ken is an excellent way to meet other campers and counselors, so that you can get a glimpse of what the coming summer has in store.
Ivrit - Hebrew
As a Zionist youth movement, we view Hebrew as one of the links that tie Jews everywhere to one another, and to the State of Israel.
Ivrit is integrated into all aspects of camp life. Rather than teaching through formal lectures, the campers learn by using the language. The mess hall is the Chadar Ochel, the beach is the Chof, and the singing is Shira. Not only does this help the chanichim (campers) develop their connection to their heritage, but also helps to build a tight-knit community of friends.
In fact, it is not unusual for campers to come home still using Hebrew in day-to-day conversation. Some may say "We had a sicha (discussion) today in class" or "I'm going to the Chadar ochel (dining room) for aruchat boker (breakfast)."
Another advantage is that Camp Shomria attracts campers from all over Canada and the world, including Israel, France, Germany, Italy, Colombia, United States.
Finally, Shomria's concept of "youth leading youth" puts emphasis on self-realization and self-reliance. This shows itself in all the things we do, including our sports (in which all are encouraged to play, regardless of ability or skill), our discussions (a fundamental rule of which is respect for all points of view), and even kvutzah (group) names, which are chosen by each kvutzah to represent them all.
Hashomer Hatzair
Camp Shomria is a part of Hashomer Hatzair (the Young Guard), a leftist Socialist-Zionist Youth Movement.
The oldest of the Zionist youth groups Hashomer Hatzair has played a very active role in Jewish history. Shomrim (members of Hashomer Hatzair) were among the first pioneers of the State of Israel. Mordechai Anilewicz, the leader of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising was the head of the Warsaw chapter of Hashomer Hatzair in the Ghetto.
Throughout the year, members of Hashomer Hatzair take part in seminars, workshops, celebrations of Jewish holidays, including excursions and debates about their Jewish identity and their linkage to the State of Israel. There are also weekly activities held at the "ken".
Coming to the Ken is an excellent way to meet other campers and counselors, so that you can get a glimpse of what the coming summer has in store.
Ivrit - Hebrew
As a Zionist youth movement, we view Hebrew as one of the links that tie Jews everywhere to one another, and to the State of Israel.
Ivrit is integrated into all aspects of camp life. Rather than teaching through formal lectures, the campers learn by using the language. The mess hall is the Chadar Ochel, the beach is the Chof, and the singing is Shira. Not only does this help the chanichim (campers) develop their connection to their heritage, but also helps to build a tight-knit community of friends.
In fact, it is not unusual for campers to come home still using Hebrew in day-to-day conversation. Some may say "We had a sicha (discussion) today in class" or "I'm going to the Chadar ochel (dining room) for aruchat boker (breakfast)."
 | The Chof - Otty Lake
Camp Shomria is located on beautiful Otty Lake and has a diverse and full waterfront program. Our sandy beach is fully equipped with canoes, sea kayaks, pool noodles, and a floating raft. It is guarded by our Rosh Chof (Head Lifeguard) and the rest of our qualified Chof staff. A "buddy system" is used and O.C.A. standards are adhered to strictly. Twice daily there is an opportunity for swimming, in addition to times when madrichim (counsellors) book the chof for extra time in the water. Please Note: Camp Shomria will never force a child to swim or water ski against his or her will. While we will encourage them to participate, we do not guarantee that each child will water ski or swim as the final decision is always left to them. |
