About

About Camp Gan Israel

Welcome to The Finder Family Camp Gan Israel, part of the largest and fastest growing network of Jewish day camps in the world. Our camp enjoys a well-earned reputation as a trendsetter with innovative ideas, creative programs and new activities being introduced continuously. Many a child has been known to wait all year to come back to Gan Israel! Our campers will enjoy a wide range of age appropriate, exciting activities and field trips, in a warm and vivacious atmosphere.

Information

Information about our program: Our camp is located at Emek Hebrew Academy in in the Encino/Sherman Oaks Area. Camp hours are Monday - Thursday from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. & Friday 9:00 am -1:30 pm . Transportation is available from local pick up points throughout the S. Fernando Valley . Our 5 divisions accommodate children ages 5 - 13. For additional information please call 1-866-GAN-IZZY 1-866-426-4999.

Safety

Safety and security are the number one concerns. Counselors to camper ratios are structured to maintain the highest levels of supervision. Staff members go through extensive training including CPR and first aid. Buses are well maintained and safety inspections are done daily. Our spacious 7 acre campsite is fully enclosed with a security guard at the front gate.

Staff

Staff are handpicked from our international network of teacher’s colleges and seminaries throughout the world. From Australia to Israel to London to New York, our highly trained staff bring a unique flavor and lively spirit. Counselors at Gan Israel do more than just supervise activities and maintain order. Through songs, cheers and original games and activities, the counselors form a bond with the campers that often lasts well beyond the summer experience.

Sports

Sports activities are an exciting element of our program. Supervised by our experienced counselors and instructors, campers will develop sportsmanship and confidence. They will also learn the fundamentals of sports such as baseball, basketball, soccer, hockey, volleyball, football, kickball and dodge-ball as they engage in individual and team competition. Our league sports program, held twice per week, adds an element of competitiveness with trophies, an “All Star Game” and a “World Series” competition.

Arts & Crafts

Arts and Crafts are a real highlight at Gan Israel. Under the professional guidance of our full time Arts & Crafts director, campers are taught to develop their creativity and imagination. Projects incorporate various themes in Jewish life as well as items of practical and artistic value.

Indoor Activities

Indoor activities take place in our fully air conditioned auditorium and activity rooms. Drama, Dance, Robotics and Martial Arts offer opportunities for our campers to develop their talents and self confidence. Our 3 fully equipped, game rooms, include the latest state-of-the-art full size video games, as well as more traditional games such as ski-ball and foosball.

Jewish Culture

Jewish Culture is brought to life at Gan Israel. Our campers are imbued with a deep sense of pride in their religious heritage and a love for Israel. Our group discussions and educational programs are designed to meet the individual needs of each child, from beginner lessons for first time Hebrew readers to advanced Torah learning for yeshiva students.

Trips

Trips are a specialty at Gan Israel. From local attractions such as bowling, roller skating, ice skating, Sherman Oaks Castle, the beach, Mulligans, Scooters Jungle, Go Kart World, Under the Sea, hiking, boating, and golfing, to major trips to Knotts Berry Farm, the Science Center, Overnight camping and Magic Mountain, Gan Israel is always on the go! Counselors receive specialized training to ensure they have the skills to properly supervise campers on off-campus excursions.

Fundays

Fundays are the heart and soul of Camp Gan Israel. Memorable events such as Rock Climbing, Carnival Day, Talent Show, Color War, Bean Hunt, Prize Auction, and Water Day are just part of the unique and innovative programming that help create the special Gan Izzy Spirit that lingers well beyond the summer.

Pioneers

Pioneers are what we call our oldest division; of boys & girls age 12 - 13. This program which is completely independent from the rest of camp, is geared to the advanced interests of campers in their early teens. The program features organized sports, special field trips, overnight camping and reserved privileges. Pioneer groups are supervised by competent senior counselors, qualified to lead teenagers.