Case Study: Aligning Camp Food with Jewish Values
Whether we remember our own summers at camp or now send our children off to create memories of their own, Jewish summer camp holds a special place in our hearts. It’s an exercise in kehillah—building community. For many, it’s where friendships are forged, identities are shaped, and Jewish values move from ideas into action.
Over the years, Jewish camps have emphasized to our team the unique power of the dining hall: often the one place where hundreds of campers regularly come together to recite blessings, share meals, and nourish themselves for the day's adventures.
In many ways, the dining hall sits at the heart of camp community. That's why we're excited to share a new case study developed in partnership with Eden Village West.
Long recognized as a leader in values-driven Jewish camping, Eden Village West demonstrates how food practices can reflect deeply held commitments to environmental stewardship, animal welfare, and inclusive Jewish eating.
Through CJFE's institutional training, the camp strengthened its approach to plant-based defaults and ethical food decision-making, creating a model that can inspire and support camps across the country.
We invite you to explore how Eden Village West is translating Jewish values into daily practice and helping chart a path forward for the broader field of Jewish camp.
Ready to bring values-aligned practices to your Jewish community?
Sign up today for our new Sustainable Dining Training E-course!
