At Camp Tevya, belonging isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live. It’s at the core of our values system, shaping how we connect with one another and how each camper and staff member feels part of something larger than themselves. This summer, thanks to the generosity of Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP), we had the privilege of bringing that value to life in a truly meaningful and lasting way.
Through a grant provided by CJP, we welcomed the Jewish Studio Project to camp for an afternoon unlike any other. Facilitated by Annie Fortnow and Josh Conescu from The Jewish Studio Project, the day was filled with joyous connection, grounding practices, and a deep dive into Jewish text that helped us reflect on the power of belonging. Our rising ninth grade campers were trained to lead this experience for the rest of camp, giving them the opportunity to model leadership and guide their peers through the creative process.
Together, as one community, every camper contributed to a collaborative art project—an expression of what it means to belong at Tevya. For Camp Tevya’s director Lauren Fishman, this project exemplifies the message she tries to deliver on a daily basis: “Everyone needs a place where they feel a genuine sense of belonging. A place where they can be themselves, a place to grow, a place where they can find their people and lifelong connections. For so many individuals, that place is camp.” The result is a stunning piece of art now proudly displayed in our newly renovated El Bess gymnasium. Featuring the words We Belong in both Hebrew and English, the artwork is a daily reminder to all who walk through our doors.
“Jewish camp is a place where campers and staff develop a strong sense of belonging, connection, and identity—essential to increasing resilience and well-being,” said Brett Lubarsky, director of Jewish communal life at CJP, which provided the grant for the project. “CJP is proud to support this partnership between Camp Tevya and Jewish Studio Project and a project that is a powerful visual representation of some of the core values that are central to the camp experience.” The project also offers a meaningful model for how Jewish Studio Project’s creative process can promote wellness through belonging.
Annie Fortnow, Jewish Studio Project’s Boston regional director, shared: “The Tevya mural project is a clear example of how creative practice can support individual well-being and communal resilience—pointing toward the potential of broader engagement with camps to foster wellness, leadership, and a deepened sense of community across the Jewish world.”
We are deeply grateful to Annie and Josh from the Jewish Studio Project for bringing their expertise, energy, and spirit to Tevya, and for helping us execute this vision with such care. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to CJP for making this possible through their generous support. This project is more than art—it’s a symbol of who we are as a camp community and the values we hold dear. At Camp Tevya, belonging isn’t just what we feel—it’s who we are.
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