Habonim Dror Southern Africa

Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010

9 - 29 December 2010 INFORMATION BOOKLET Contents

Welcome from the Rosh Machaneh...... 2 What is Habonim Dror?...... 3 The Educational Vision of Koach Le’Shanot- Power to Change...... 5 Clothes & Equipment...... 6 Machaneh Rules...... 8 Security Arrangements...... 8 Transport Information...... 9 Cape Town...... 9 Durban...... 10 Eastern Cape...... 10 Johannesburg...... 11 Shtilim 11 Day Camp...... 13 Garden Route (Plett) after camp...... 13 Other Centers...... 13 Why are cell phones strictly prohibited from machaneh?...... 14 Does my child have to attend camp for the full three weeks?...... 15 Visiting Channichim...... 16 Shtilim 11 Day Camp...... 17 Medical Information...... 18 Letter from the Camp Doctors to Channichim:...... 18 Letter from the Camp Doctors to Parents:...... 19 Contacting the Camp Office...... 20 During machaneh...... 20 Before machaneh...... 20 In an emergency...... 20 Contacting Channichim...... 20 Some General (but Important!) Information...... 21 Smoking Policy...... 21 What does Machaneh offer your Child?...... 22 Campsite Improvements and the Habonim Dror Foundation...... 24 Important Dates for 2011!!!...... 25

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 1 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Welcome from the Rosh Machaneh Shalom chaverim,

It is unbelievable that 2010 has flown by so quickly and it is time to once again be swept up in the Machaneh magic. Not too long ago, over 750 channichim left Machaneh Olam Chofshi with a heavy heart, ready to wait the seemingly endless days until they could return to Onrus.

It is with great excitement that I write this opening letter as I know that this year’s Machaneh will be bigger and better than ever before! With a fresh Va’ad Poel and Va’ad Machaneh, every channich and channicha can be sure to expect an outstanding Machaneh!

The theme of this year’s Machaneh is Koach Le’Shanot- Power to Change. This name adequately depicts the direction and conscience of the movement this year. It is only at Habonim where you can see young people creating real change in their communities and their own lives. Habonim channichim and madrichim learn to take responsibility for both themselves and those around them and these are the wheels upon which our Machanot run. HDSA is also celebrating its 80th anniversary and when one looks back over the years it is clear that Habonim truly is a youth ‘movement’ rather than a youth organization, we are constantly improving, renovating and reinventing ourselves.

2010 has been a year filled with successes and exciting adventures, from our 80 th anniversary celebrations in Israel, leadership tour to Israel as well as Shorashim, mini machanot and loads more, no one can say HDSA has not been buzzing! Every year we continue to grow and it is for this reason that we remain the largest Jewish Youth Movement in Southern Africa.

It has been a privilege working as the Rosh Machaneh for this December and I am truly excited to see the channichim’s exhilaration as they step foot on to our beautiful campsite. Although the Rosh Machaneh is seen as the face of the Machaneh, it is the combined efforts of the Va’ad Poel, Va’ad Machaneh and Bogrim that make Machaneh happen and I have been truly fortunate to have such a fine team to work with. No amount of explanation can really make one understand the hours of work that go into organizing our machanot and I would like to take this opportunity to say a huge ‘Kol Hakavod’ for all our hard work. We also rely on parents and members of the wider Habonim community who lend of their time and expertise over and over again- thank you!

Although we pride ourselves on being more than just a ‘Machaneh movement’, there is no doubt that our world famous December machanot are a pivotal part of the Habonim calendar and I say to every Jewish child- don’t miss out on the opportunity of a life time to experience the beauty and power of Habonim Dror Southern Africa!

Aleh Vehagshem- Rise Up and Fulfill

Jodi Wishnia Rosh Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 2010

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 2 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 What is Habonim Dror?

Habonim Dror is a worldwide Jewish Zionist youth movement. It exists to empower Jewish youth to take responsibility for their Jewish and Zionist identity, the Jewish people, Israeli society and the world at large.

A BRIEF HISTORY

Habonim (‘The Builders’) was founded in 1929 in Great Britain. The idea of a Jewish youth movement soon spread to other English-speaking countries and finally, throughout the world. In 1930, Norman Lourie brought Habonim to South Africa, with the first camp taking place at Parys in 1931. The movement began as a scouting organization for Jewish youth, with a strong emphasis on Jewish heritage and knowledge. It later evolved into a Zionist movement with a strong political platform, before merging with Dror in the 1980s.

Dror (‘Freedom’) was founded in Poland in 1915 from a wing of the Tze'irei Tziyon (Zion Youth) study circle. Members of Dror participated in the Warsaw Ghetto uprising, including Mordechai Tennenbaum and Emma Sobel, who famously organised two underground factions in the ghetto.

As both movements focussed their energies on Zionism, Dror aligned with the Kibbutz Me'Uchad network in Israel, while Habonim aligned with the Ichud Kibbutzim. When the two kibbutz movements merged in 1980 to form the United Kibbutz Movement (TaKa"M), so did their respective youth movements.

The movement was responsible for founding a number of kibbutzim, including Kfar Blum, Beit Haemek, Tuval and Gesher Haziv. Famous graduates of the two movements include Golda Meir, Stanley Fischer (Governor of the Israeli Reserve Bank), Chaim Herzog, comedian Sacha Baron Cohen and Mark Regev (spokesman for the Israeli PM), amongst others.

THE MOVEMENT IN SOUTHERN AFRICA TODAY

Habonim Dror Southern Africa (HDSA) operates across the Southern African region. We have educated over 70000 Jewish youth for 80 years and today remain the largest and most vibrant Jewish youth movement in Southern Africa.

We truly are a youth movement, as all our madrichim (councillors) are under the age of 23. These madrichim, all of whom serve as volunteers, have complete autonomy over the movement’s operation and define the movement's values and ideals at our ideological conference, the Veida, which is held every two years.

We run various programmes for both madrichim and channichim (members Grade 11 and younger) throughout the year in both Israel and South Africa, culminating in our famous annual summer camp (machaneh) during December.

The movement seeks to educate the next generation of Jewish South Africans into becoming tomorrow’s strong and courageous leaders. The informal and dynamic youth movement environment allows for their empowerment, self-realisation and ultimately, the moulding of critical and responsible leaders. We develop in our members a positive and rich Jewish identity, which enables them to understand and appreciate our Jewish heritage and culture. Both personal growth and group development are emphasised. Habonim Dror’s ideological direction is based around three pillars; Judaism, Zionism, and Service to Humanity & Equality. Habonim is pluralist in its Jewish religious outlook and provides a full spectrum of Jewish expression, including Orthodox, Egalitarian and Cultural.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 3 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010

We believe strongly in the protection and betterment of the State of Israel and strive for Israel to be an example in all that she does. We seek to ensure that Israel lives up to our 'Labour Zionist' vision – as a safe, morally strong, culturally diverse and religiously tolerant society, while we hope and strive for an Israel at peace with all her neighbours. The late Prime Minister Yitzchak Rabin, in a letter to HDSA in 1994, paid tribute to the movement “whose membership is committed to seeing a lasting peace established between Israel and her neighbours. Your support at this time is much appreciated. May you continue to represent the highest example of Jewish values.”

At the same time, Habonim Dror prides itself on being amongst the leading activists and educators within the Jewish community in South Africa. This is reflected in the enormous amount of time and effort that we give back to both our Jewish youth and the wider South African society. As echoed in a message Phillip Dexter of the Congress of the People (COPE) "The Jewish organisation Habonim which focuses, not only on Jewish interests but acts in the interests of South Africans as a whole, deserve credit. They display the perfect example of non racialism, diversity and tolerance that we as South Africans are all striving for today... We salute NGO's such as Habonim .. We see them as cadres in our country fighting for equal rights and service delivery."" Habonim’s ethos is one that encourages members to think critically and openly about a range of issues. The movement focuses its energies on informal education, emphasising the ideas of freedom, equality and democracy in South Africa, Israel and the world. The values of honesty, friendship and respect are not only taught, but are seen in the example set by madrichim.

For the past eight decades, the movement has developed leaders and visionaries, people instilled with a sense of responsibility and conscience and people of conviction and action. As the 80 years previously, HDSA is determined to continue our mission to build strong Jewish youth, filled with a passion to inspire and create change.

The 11 Principles of Habonim Members of Habonim Dror Southern Africa confidently strive to...  be independent, critical, creative and tolerant in their thinking.  be people of conviction and action.  be self disciplined and lead by example in all decisions.  respect and tolerate all people, provided that their practices do not harm others.  promote an equal, democratic and just society.  recognise our South African identity and responsibility in furthering a free, equal and democratic South Africa.  value and respect nature.  serve their chaverim and their communities.  identify with their Jewish heritage, and create an environment rich in Jewish morals, culture and tradition.  pursue knowledge and educate in all spheres, focusing on Israel, Judaism and the Hebrew language.  improve and build the state of Israel through a shared and committed vision.

For an overview of the movement’s activities, functioning and ideology or to view the movement’s full chukkah (constitution), please visit our website.

HABONIM EDUCATION AT MACHANEH Habonim Dror prides itself on its educational process, which is tailor-made for each age group. The tochniot (programmes) are designed to allow the channichim to grow in an open-minded environment where questioning is encouraged, where simple answers are not given, and where channichim are not told what to believe. The peulot (activities) look at Zionism, Judaism and social action in a fun and exciting way. As part of the educational experience, each shichvah leaves the campsite for a day on tiyul (a hike) in the Overberg region. The Educational Vision of Koach Le’Shanot- Power to Change The name of this year's machaneh is Koach Le’Shanot. Translated, it means Power to Change. The name of the Machaneh is pertinent as it guides our educational vision for all the shichavot and permeates every aspect of the machaneh, be it planning a shabbat tekes or even pitching a tent. For three weeks, over one thousand young Jewish people come together to create the change they seek, using their own initiative, inspiration, passion and sense of kehilla (community).

The concept of a power to change encapsulates what Habonim Dror Southern Africa is about. Since our establishment as a Zionist movement, the members of Habonim Dror have set out to create positive change through building confident and socially conscientious Jewish Zionist leaders. From the chalutzim (pioneers) of the socialist kibbutzim in Israel, to our very own community in South Africa, the chaverim of our movement continue this history of responsible and engaged leadership.

HDSA has nurtured and inspired principled leaders and channichim who are concerned about our environment and the social issues facing our own and other communities. The movement is a place that both educates about and strives towards change. It is our Jewish history and the history of South Africa that have shaped our identities as young Jews concerned about the country in which we live, Israel and the world at large.

The idea of Koach Le’Shanot can be seen as a continuation of this legacy, and is about inspiring our channichim to create the change they seek, through interactions with madrichim, stimulating peulot and connections with Israel and South Africa that are challenging, meaningful and relevant.

Machaneh is about creating an environment for young Jewish people that is safe, fun and allows for critical thinking. It is a place for the individual to grapple with personal identity, but is also a place that is created through the shared vision of hundreds of young people. Without the energy of every channich, machaneh would be just another summer camp. As a Habonim community we create an environment that nurtures inspiration, relationships and ultimately, positive change.

We are a diverse movement that allows for the individuals to express their Judaism and opinions in a way that they feel comfortable. We seek change, not only in the world, but in ourselves, by challenging ourselves and our identity as Jews, Zionists and South Africans.

We cannot wait to see your child at Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot this December, for three weeks of magic and inspiration.

Chazak Ve’Ematz (be strong and courageous)

Julian Kesler Rosh Chinnuch (Head of Education) Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 5 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010

Clothes & Equipment Packing your luggage When packing, use a durable case or trunk and try to keep its weight below 20kg (this will save problems when you carry your case or trunk at machaneh). Make sure to have a lock and don’t lose the keys (bring spares - it is a good idea to wear keys on a necklace, or use a combination lock)! Please LABEL ALL ITEMS of clothing with the camper’s name and shichvah. Please send mattresses in a green refuse bag. These are stronger and are less likely to get lost. Please also pack 1x green refuse bag for the return journey. Do not pack your mattress in a black bag, as this may get mixed up with the camp refuse on the last day. Please do not tie your sleeping bag, mattress, stretcher or trunk to one another.

Lost Property Habonim Dror will collect all lost property in each age group throughout camp, look for labels and return any missing clothing. We will also repeatedly tell channichim to look for their missing clothes. After camp lost property will not be kept – all lost property will be donated to a worthy cause. Please encourage your children to be aware to look in the lost property area outside the office for any missing items.

NB information:

Channichim will only be allowed ONE TRUNK at camp. We order luggage trucks according to safety standards and size, and thus cannot afford to carry any extra luggage. There is also no space in tents for extra trunks

Channichim must bring an extra tog bag to use for the final weekend. Luggage will be packed two days before camp ends and channichim will be required to pack this small bag for the last night

NO hair dryers or hair straighteners will be allowed at machaneh under any circumstances, and electricity points are not available to operate these

SHTILIM CHANNICHIM WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO BRING TRUNKS. They must bring normal bags and suitcases instead, as they are staying in cabins and not in tents. Trunks will damage the floors of these cabins. Shtilim channichim do not require a mattress. It is advised that every Shtilim channich brings a single fitted sheet

Your trunk should contain the following items of clothing and equipment (use as a guideline):  Your chultzah (movement shirt –  4 long sleeved jerseys compulsory)  1 tracksuit  10 shirts or T-shirts  Underwear and socks for the duration  2-3 pairs of jeans  6 pairs of shorts  1 pair of warm pyjamas and 1 pair of  1 pair of slip-slops or sandals summer pyjamas  1 pair of shoes for daily use  1 pair of good hiking shoes for tiyul  Jacket suitable for rainy conditions (essential)  2 bathing costumes  1 warm jacket  3 towels Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 6 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010

 1 hat (compulsory, you will not be allowed  Laundry bag, washing powder, a washing onto the beach without one) line and pegs (yes, you have to do your own  Kippah for boys washing!!)  1 water bottle for tiyul  Torch and 2 changes of batteries  Mattress (one that is easily transportable,  Plenty of sunblock (compulsory, you will not eg. folding foam mattress. Please note that be allowed onto the beach without it) stretchers are not recommended). Shtilim channichim  Pen, paper, envelopes (or postcards) and do not need a mattress but must bring a single fitted sheet stamps  Sleeping bag, blanket, pillow, pillowcase,  Camera for great memories sheet and waterproof ground sheet  Toiletries (shower gel is recommended)  Please note that campers are not allowed to bring their own tents  Be advised that weapons and other dangerous items are not allowed and will be confiscated and not returned We encourage older channichim to bring their own plate/bowl/cup/knife/fork to camp. The use of plastics instead of polystyrene is encouraged as part of HDSA’s environmental policy. All channichim are asked to bring a white garment (shirt/skirt etc.) to wear with their Chultzah on Shabbat. We implore all channichim to dress smartly for the Shabbat services.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 7 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Machaneh Rules

PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD WITH A CELLPHONE TO CAMP!!! CELLPHONES ARE STRICTY PROHIBITED!!! See cell phone policy on page 14. General Rules The smooth running of a camp the size of Habonim Dror Machaneh is an enormous task. In order for us to provide the ultimate experience and allow all our campers to get the maximum from machaneh, there are some rules which need to be applied. Please ensure that you have read these and have signed the appropriate place on the camp form indicating you agree with the following rules and regulations:

1. It is compulsory to attend all meals and peulot (activities). 2. Possession of (or partaking in) alcohol and drugs is prohibited - see below and smoking policy on page 20. 3. Theft and malicious vandalism of all property (including the natural vegetation) belonging to Habonim Dror and fellow campers is prohibited. 4. Leaving the campsite is prohibited (including across the river and lagoon). 5. Intimidation and sexual harrasment of fellow campers is prohibited. 6. Channichim may not bring their own tents to machaneh. 7. Cellular phones are prohibited and will be confiscated with handling fee of half the camper’s current tuckshop balance. Habonim will not be responsible for loss or damage to confiscated cell phones. 8. It is compulsory for all channichim to have a Habonim Dror Chultzah (movement uniform – blue shirt with red string). 9. Channichim are not permitted to assist in security duties. This is the task of the professional protectors of the CSO. 10. We expect every channich/ah to treat their madrichim, staff, fellow channichim and the Machaneh environment with respect. 11. Should you graffiti on a tent you will be liable to the cost of a BRAND new tent.

Habonim Dror reserves the right to discipline or send home any channich for generally rude, disruptive or abusive behaviour. These rules will be applied both on camp transport and at Machaneh.

 Items 2 & 3 can be criminal activities and Habonim Dror will not protect perpetrators from the law.  Items 2, 3, 4 and 5 will result in immediate expulsion from Machaneh and travel home will be at the expense of the camper.  Habonim Dror reserves the right to disallow channichim the right to attend future events should their behaviour on Machaneh not be found to be satisfactory.  Please note: Habonim Dror reserves the right not to refund any monies.

Weapons No firearms, knives, handcuffs or weapons of any nature may be brought to machaneh. If these are found in a camper’s possession, they will be confiscated and disciplinary action will be taken. Habonim Dror is not responsible for the loss thereof.

Alcohol, drugs and other substance abuse Substance abuse of any kind is not tolerated at Habonim. Substance abuse (including the holding of any such items in a camper’s luggage) is an offence that will result in the person being sent home immediately. Camp is a safe and secure environment where there is a ZERO tolerance policy for any substance abuse including alcohol or drugs of any kind.

Security Arrangements

Security will once again be undertaken by the Community Security Organisation (CSO). All aspects of the machaneh, including camp travel, tiyulim and the beach are protected by trained and experienced security teams. We have been working with the CSO for many months on this specific machaneh, they have visited our site on a regular basis and we have made every necessary arrangement to ensure the safety and security of your children. In the seventeen years that the CSO have secured Habonim Dror, we have had no major incidents at machaneh and have complete trust that this will once again be the case at Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 8 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Transport Information Cape Town

A compulsory parents’ meeting will take place for AT LEAST ONE PARENT of every Cape Town channich in the atrium of Herzlia Middle School on Thursday, 25 November. Channichim do not need to attend.

In order to ensure that you do not stand in long queues we have split up the meeting into two slots: Thursday, 25 November 2010 from: 16h30 – 18h45: Shtilim, Bonim and Amelim (Grade 5 - Grade 8) 18h45 – 21h00: Sollelim, Sayarim and Shomrim (Grade 9 – Grade 11) If you have children who fall in both these categories then please attend in the latter time slot. At the parents meeting you will be able to:  Receive luggage labels for your trunks and mattresses/stretchers  Receive fax cover-pages which you will need to send letters to your children  Receive your merchandise (hoodie and chultzah) so you can label both before camp  Speak to the camp leadership  Check outstanding or unclear information on your child’s application  Meet some of our staff at camp including CSO and social workers We urge you to complete your signup on www.habo.org.za/signup - If you have not completed your signup and arranged payment, you will not be able to receive your merchandise.

Cape Town luggage will be loaded at the Old Green Point Stadium Parking lot, Vlei Road which must be accessed via Western Boulevard ONLY please, between 12h00 – 14h00 on Wednesday, 8th December 2010. Please note the following times to bring your child’s luggage: 12h00 – 13h00: BONIM, SAYARIM and SHOMRIM channichim 13h00 – 14h00: SHTILIM, AMELIM and SOLLELIM channichim Upon arrival, please follow instructions for your child’s age group. If you have children who fall in both these categories, please attend in the earlier time slot.

Cape Town channichim will be departing from the Old Green Point Stadium Parking lot, Vlei Road which must be accessed via Western Boulevard ONLY at 10h30 on Thursday, 9th December 2010. Please arrive by 08h30 in order to facilitate registration. Due to the limited parking available, we ask parents to please drop their children and leave once they have been registered. When you arrive, please find the appropriate table for your child’s shichvah and queue to register. No channichim will be allowed on the bus without a registration sticker. These stickers will only be available at registration.

Cape Town channichim and luggage will return to the Old Green Point Stadium Parking lot, Vlei Road. Please enter via Western Boulevard Road ONLY 14h30 on Wednesday, 29th December 2010. We will be staggering the times that the buses will be arriving at. We request that parents of channichim in SHTLIM, BONIM and AMELIM collect their children at 14h30 and that parents with channichim in SOLLELIM, SAYARIM and SHOMRIM collect their children from 15h15. If you have children in both groups, you may arrive in the earlier timeslot. We implore you to please park as directed and be patient on the day.

Durban Durban channichim must meet at the Mango Airlines check-in desk at Durban International Airport at 06h45 on Thursday, 9th December 2010. They will fly on flight JE331 to Cape Town departing at 08h45.

Durban channichim will be returning on Mango flight JE362 on Tuesday, 29th December 2010, and are scheduled to land at Durban International Airport at 15h15. No channichim will be allowed to leave the airport until they have been checked off by the accompanying madrich.

Durban luggage will be collected on Friday the 3rd of December 2010 and will travel to the campsite. Time and venue to be confirmed.

Durban luggage will return to Durban by truck on Tuesday, 4th January 2011. Time and venue to be confirmed.

Eastern Cape

Eastern Cape parents are requested to URGENTLY book their child’s own aeroplane ticket on the following flights:

 TO CAMP: Kulula flight MN752 leaving Port Elizabeth for Cape Town at 09h40 on Thursday, 9th December 2010 (arriving at 10h55 in CT).

 FROM CAMP: 1Time flight 1T 702 leaving Cape Town for Port Elizabeth at 13h20 on Wednesday, 29th December 2010 (arriving at 14h30 in PE).

Please note that all arrangements regarding these flights must be made at your own time and expense, and that Habonim will not be responsible for booking tickets on these flights. The airline has assured us that tickets booked soon will be both affordable and available.

This system has been used for the past 3 years for Eastern Cape channichim, and proved significantly cheaper, more convenient and less tiring for our channichim than travelling by bus.

All Eastern Cape luggage must be carried on this flight/s. Luggage (including channich’s trunk/bag) must weigh less than 20kg. Any fee for weight exceeding 20kg must be covered at your own expense.

Your travel fee: As all Eastern Cape applicants are required to book their own tickets, we will only be charging you for transport to and from the Cape Town airport (R300 each way – R600 return). If your child is only travelling on one of the above flights, his/her travel fee will still include R300 (for one way). We will be sending a madrich to travel with your children on these flights, and to accompany them to and from the campsite.

Please note that no channich from the Eastern Cape will be accepted without booking on the above flight/s first.

You are required to submit your airline confirmation before being accepted to machaneh (see online form). Please forward a copy of your airticket to S'gan Rosh Machaneh Jayson Lazar by email on [email protected]

Johannesburg

A compulsory parents’ meeting will take place for AT LEAST ONE PARENT of every Johannesburg channich on Sunday, 21 November from 14h00 – 18h00 at the Waverly Bowls Club, 126 Hamlin Street, Waverly. Channichim do not need to attend.

In order to ensure that you do not stand in long queues we have split up the meeting into two slots: 14h00 – 16h00: Shtilim, Bonim, Amelim (Grade 5 - Grade 8) 16h00 – 18h00: Sollelim, Sayarim, Shomrim (Grade 9 – Grade 11) If you have children who fall in both these categories then please attend in the latter time slot.

At the parents meeting you will be able to:  Receive luggage labels for your trunks and mattresses/stretchers  Receive fax cover-pages which you will need to send letters to your children  Receive your aeroplane booking code  Receive your merchandise (hoodie and chultzah) so you can label both before camp. All channichim must wear their chultzah on the plane!  Speak to the camp leadership  Check outstanding or unclear information on your child’s application  Meet some of our staff at camp including the camp doctors, CSO and social workers

We urge you to complete your signup on www.habo.org.za/signup - If you have not completed your signup and arranged payment, you will not be able to receive your train ticket or merchandise.

Johannesburg luggage will be loaded at Oxford Shul Parking Lot between 9am-1pm on Tuesday, 7th December 2010. Please note the following times to bring your child’s luggage: 09h00 – 11:00 BONIM, SAYARIM and SHOMRIM channichim 11h00 – 13h00: SHTILIM, AMELIM and SOLLELIM channichim Upon arrival, please follow instructions for your child’s age group. If you have children who fall in both these categories, please attend in the earlier time slot.

JOHANNESBURG TRAVEL- AEROPLANE PROCEDURE

Please arrive at your assigned airport at 06h15.

o Shtilim and Bonim - Lanseria Kulula - MN457 Depart - 08:30 o Amelim, Sollelim, Sayarim and Shomrim - OR Tambo Kulula - MN121 Depart - 09:10

Mango - JE135 Depart - 08:25 It is imperative for security reasons that all campers wear their uniform (the blue Chultzah) at the airport. NO CAMPER WILL BE ALLOWED TO CHECK-IN WITHOUT THIS UNIFORM SHIRT. The chultzah can be purchased on the camp form before Machaneh, and will be handed out at the Johannesburg parents’ meeting on Sunday, 21st November 2010.

Campers will NOT be allowed to check any luggage in on the flight. Please make sure you send your stretchers/mattresses with your trammels on the 7th December.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 11 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 WHAT ARE THE RULES ONCE WE ARE ON THE PLANE?

Once on the plane, the camp rules (as explained on page 8 of this booklet) apply. Over and above this, please take note of the following rules:

· Damage to airline property will not be tolerated. Campers will be liable.

· Always follow the instructions of your respective madrichim.

· If you need any medical care, please speak to your Madrichim, who will liaise with the CSO and medics who are on hand to assist you.

WILL I GO HUNGRY ON THE PLANE?

Drinks will be confiscated by security due to airport regulations. You may send your child with some money for food and a drink on the flight should you wish to. Water and snacks will be provided for channichim when they board the buses at Cape Town Airport.

We will once again be flying back to Johannesburg on the 29th December on Mango flight JE154 at 12:10 arriving at Johannesburg OR

Tambo airport at 14:10.

Johannesburg luggage will return to the Habonim Dror Bayit (34 10th Avenue, Highlands North) Thursday, 30th December 2010 and must be collected between 15h00 and 17h30.

Luggage not collected on Thursday, 30th December will be stored at the Habonim Dror Bayit and can be collected after Monday, 12th January 2011, when our offices reopen, at a charge of R50 per channich. This luggage will only be kept until Monday, 1st February 2010. Please make arrangements to collect luggage by this date as all remaining property will be donated to a worthy cause. Habonim Dror takes no responsibility whatsoever for any luggage stored at the Johannesburg Bayit.

Shtilim 11 Day Camp All parents of 11 day campers are requested to read the information regarding the 11 day camp for Grade 5s on page 17 of this booklet.

All 11 day campers will be departing for camp with all other channichim from the venues listed above.

11 day campers returning to Cape Town will arrive at Herzlia Bus Park (below the High School) at approximately 13h30 on Sunday, 19th December 2010.

11 day campers returning to Johannesburg will be flying on Mango flight JE158 scheduled to land at OR Tambo International Airport at 16h35 on Sunday, 19th December 2010. A madrich will be accompanying these campers on the flight to Johannesburg. No channichim will be allowed to leave the airport until they have been checked off by the accompanying madrich.

11 day campers not returning on either the Johannesburg flight or Cape Town bus must contact Jayson lazar on [email protected] by Friday, 12 November to facilitate arrangements.

Garden Route (Plett) after camp

We will be offering our regular transport to Plettenberg Bay, George, Knysna and Sedgefield. We will be sending a bus from the campsite leaving early morning on Wednesday, 29th December 2010 which will arrive at the Beacon Isle Hotel in Plett in the early afternoon. Final times of arrival will be confirmed at a later date. Please contact Jayson Lazar at the Johannesburg office on (011) 786- 7046 or at [email protected] for more information.

Should you wish your child to take this option, please select the ‘Plettenberg Bay’ travel option on the online form.

Other Centers Travel to/from Zimbabwe or Botswana can be arranged with Jayson Lazar at the Joburg office on (011) 786 7046 or at [email protected].

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 13 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Why are cell phones strictly prohibited from machaneh?

The machaneh experience is one where channichim enter a new environment for three weeks of fun outdoors, taking a break from their regular lifestyle. During this time, they do not engage with television, computers, gaming consoles or other technological devices which dominate their everyday lives during the rest of the year.

We realize that these days most children have access to a cell phone, while parents have become used to contacting their children in this easy and efficient manner. Our madrichim and camp psychologists have found that this regular use of cell phones is the number one factor contributing towards homesickness at machaneh, and is proving increasingly detrimental to the machaneh as a whole, particularly in the younger age groups. Regular contact with a parent exacerbates separation anxiety, which in turn affects the child’s friends and fellow channichim. This is very disruptive to a child’s camping experience, spoiling the child’s enjoyment of the independent atmosphere of machaneh, leading, in some cases, to children wanting to leave camp early.

As a result of these findings, Habonim introduced a ban on cell phones at machaneh some years ago. However, despite this rule, and the subsequent fining of channichim found with cell phones, the problem has continued. We implore you to please assist by ensuring that cell phones are not sent to camp, whatever age group your child is in. As in previous years, cell phones found with channichim will be confiscated for the duration of machaneh, and monies will be deducted from the channich’s tuckshop account.

We hope that parents will support the camp leadership and ensure that their children respect camp rules, and appreciate that our cell phone policy is in the best interests of all the children. There is no need for any child to have a cell phone during camp.

Should the need arise, channichim, with the appropriate permission, will always be able to contact their parents or guardian from the camp office. We also distribute faxes to your children every day, the details of which can be found on page 19 of this booklet. We implore you to please assist by ensuring that cell phones are not sent to camp, whatever shichvah your child is in.

Please see page 7 for the camp rules, including further policy on channichim and cell phones. We will enforce a penalty if a channich is found with a cell phone!

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 14 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Does my child have to attend camp for the full three weeks?

Machaneh is a planned three week experience. Over the course of the three week period, close to 800 channichim engage in an educational process that will lead them through a curriculum that they build on from one year to the next. In addition, only over the full period can channichim truly engage in the unique experience that is Habonim Machaneh. Arriving late or leaving early severely impacts on a child’s ability to get the most benefit out of the Habonim camp experience.

At previous machanot, channichim leaving early has been a significant problem as the carefully planned flow of machaneh is disrupted, while this action impacts on the rest of their shichvah and the camp as a whole. The camp process involves a unique group bonding experience, where emphasis is placed on the experience of group activities. Activities are run in groups and there are groups of tent-mates whom meet with madrichim every day. When channichim in those groups depart early the dynamic of the group is seriously disrupted, leading to homesickness and unhappiness.

In addition, the last few days of camp, including the last weekend, are the culmination of this process, and are a time to reflect on the wonderful experience they have enjoyed and to bid farewell to friends and madrichim.

Finally, the carefully planned administration of the machaneh is severely impacted by unplanned departure of channichim. Due to the above reasons, Habonim maintains a very strict policy with regard to channichim leaving early. Campers from within South Africa must use the official camp transport, unless otherwise arranged for beforehand with the camp organisers.

No channich will be allowed to leave early unless they are severely homesick and have seen the camp psychologist, who has given them permission to leave early. If this process is not adhered to, channichim will not be allowed to leave the site. In the event of emergencies arising during machaneh, the Rosh Machaneh will grant the child permission to leave early in consultation with his/her parents. We strongly discourage parents from requesting that their children be allowed to leave camp early without going through this important procedure. Your child’s wellbeing, accommodation and living space remain constant until they leave the campsite and are returned home. Should your child feel anxious at any time, they can approach their madrichim, who are well trained to deal with any issue that may arise, and are there for your children at all times.

Campers will be allowed to leave machaneh for an important simcha or occasion that we are notified about well in advance. If this occasion is in South Africa, they are expected to return to camp after the event or permission will not be granted. If this applies to your child, please email S'gan Rosh Machaneh Jayson Lazar at [email protected] with a detailed request.

Under specific circumstances, Habonim can provide transport to and from Cape Town during machaneh:  Special transport to/from the Habonim Bayit in Cape Town or to/from the Habonim campsite will be at a cost of R350 per trip (i.e. R700 return). Lifts to and from Cape Town will ONLY take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in the morning.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 15 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Visiting Channichim

Parents and friends will not be allowed to visit channichim on the campsite.

Due to outings and excursions, channichim may not be on the beach every day. Usually, beach times are from 11h30 – 13h00 and 15h30 – 17h00, although these times cannot be guaranteed.

In previous years, we set aside an extended period of beach time during the middle Sunday of camp to allow for you to visit your children. Over the years, we have encountered numerous problems with Visitor’s Day.

This year, as in 2008 and 2009, there will not be a Visitor’s Day at machaneh. The feedback from a large number of parents, the camp psychologists and the madrichim, on the decision to discontinue Visitor’s Day, was overwhelmingly positive.

It has been our experience that children enter into a ‘new world’ during machaneh, a world quite different to that which they are a part of during the other eleven months of the year. Seeing their parents, even on an irregular basis, breaks this unique atmosphere, and, along with the use of cell phones, is the primary reason for unhappiness and ultimately, homesickness. We have found, over many years, that Visitor’s Day caused drastically increased levels of anxiety among campers. These often became unmanageable (particularly in the younger age groups), resulting in many campers who were having a wonderful holiday wanting to go home when they saw their parents. In addition, the camp runs on a tight routine which is vital to its sustained success. Getting the children back into ‘the swing’ of camp after Visitor’s Day proved extremely difficult in the past.

Furthermore, many parents felt an unnecessary obligation to attend Visitor’s Day, while the beach became congested, littered and unpleasant for parents, the madrichim and channichim. Our madrichim and the CSO had a difficult time monitoring the whereabouts of the children.

Finally, as some parents could not visit their children on this day, there was invariably a small number of channichim who became very anxious wondering whether their parents would be visiting, or upset knowing that their parents could not visit, while their camp-mates were showered with food and attention by their parents. This also created a difficult situation for our madrichim and the camp psychologists to deal with.

If you wish to visit your child during beach time, which we discourage for the reasons given above, our psychologists strongly advise that you visit your child only once, for no more than two hours on any one of the three weekends, and that you and your child have decided and agreed on this beforehand.

If this has been arranged with your child, please send a fax to the campsite well in advance, reminding your child that you will be arriving for your visit - we will ensure that your child receives the message and is available to go to the beach during free time. Of course, you can also send faxed letters to your child at any time. Furthermore, in the case of an emergency, we are always available via the emergency cell phone number, which can be found on page 19 of this booklet. In addition, your child is always able to telephone you from the camp office should the need arise.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 16 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Shtilim 11 Day Camp

The Shtilim shichvah, our youngest age group, is made up of Grade 5s and 6s.

Over the years, we have come to realize that it is quite challenging for some of our youngest channichim to come to camp for the full three weeks, yet know that there are some channichim who are still excited to try out our summer machaneh. In response to this, we have, over the last few years, run a very successful 11 day camp for a small number of Shtilim channichim concurrent with the larger three week Shtilim Machaneh.

This year, as in 2008 and 2009, we are once again offering an 11 day camp for GRADE FIVE channichim ONLY. Grade 6s who wish to attend Shtilim Machaneh will, due to massive demand and a shortage of places, only be admitted for the three week experience.

The 11 day option encourages many Grade 5 channichim to come to camp for the first time, where they will undoubtedly have the most educationally vibrant, fun-filled few days of their lives. However, experience has shown that this option is only almost as good as the ‘real thing’, as eleven days can never compare to the three week ‘Habo Machaneh Magic’. In addition, we have noticed the severe impact that too many channichim leaving after 11 days has on the wider shichvah and in order to preserve the educational and social quality of the Shtilim machaneh, we have decided to limit numbers in this manner.

We strongly encourage Grade 5 channichim to attend the full three week camp, as we believe that it offers them a broader and more enriching experience. The last few days of camp are the most memorable, as the entire machaneh comes together to reflect on the experience of the previous three weeks, and to bid farewell to one another.

Please be aware that due to space constraints and childcare concerns, we cannot accommodate more than 150 channichim in Shtilim in total, and no more than 50 channichim for 11 days. Grade 6s, who will stay for the full three weeks AND Grade 5s choosing the longer option will get preference over those Grade 5s attending for only 11 days.

The 11 day option for Shtilim Grade 5s will start on the same day as Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot, on Thursday 9 th December and will finish on Sunday 19th December.

A few peulot (activities) will be run separately for the 11 day campers, but all meals and the overwhelming majority of activities will be run together as one Shtilim shichvah. The 11 day camp will follow the same timetable as the regular camp.

Criteria for admission to Shtilim (11 day and three week): We will be accepting applications for Shtilim 11 day camp AND three week camp on a first-come-first-serve basis. This is subject to demographic allocation as well as attendance at previous Habonim machanot and/or events on a regular basis during the year.

Should 11 day campers choose, during camp, to stay for the full three weeks, they will be able to do so in consultation with their parents and the Rosh Shtilim, Tali Lanesman. We will facilitate this process. The difference in price must be settled before Friday, 17th December (two days before the end of 11 day camp). Note that Shtilim channichim staying for three weeks are not allowed to leave early in line with our policy for all three week campers.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 17 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Medical Information

By completing your medical form online and by submitting a doctor’s medical form, we assume that every child has had a medical examination. This is insisted upon by our team of camp doctors, who will comply with any special treatment that you have indicated that your child needs at machaneh. If your child has not yet had a medical examination, we insist that he/she has one before coming to machaneh. Please make sure that if the camper is on any maintenance medication, the details of this medication are written on his/her camp form and that the medic in his/her shichvah is aware of this. The onus rests on you as the channich’s parent/s to provide correct medical information.

Please ensure that your child reads the letter below before machaneh!

Letter from the Camp Doctors to Channichim: Shalom Campers

In the past, unhappiness at machaneh has been caused by campers not adhering to very simple procedures. The following is a list of those procedures. Please take note of them and we are sure you will have a healthy and happy Machaneh.

 You must receive a Tetanus Toxoid Booster dose before machaneh. Don’t worry, this is not painful.  Bring your maintenance medicines to machaneh, and hand these in to the clinic on the first day.  If you have an asthma spray, be sure to bring refills.  If you require Insulin, this must be kept in the clinic fridge and you can self administer your injections in the clinic, in private or you can receive help from the doctors should you wish.  Inform the medical staff of your allergies at each medical visit.  If the doctors prescribe medicine to you, be sure to take it as instructed. Please comply with the doctors’ and nurse’s requests.  The clinic has specific consulting times and will otherwise be closed, except in the case of an emergency. There is always a doctor on the site.  Do not put any part of your body outside bus window. A foreign body in your eye can cause a miserable journey.  Do not walk barefoot at any time.  Fresh fruit is always available outside the main stores – eat it!  Inform your madrichim if you feel ill.  Drink a lot of liquid every day.  Shower everyday, and after swimming.  If any girl is menstruating for the first time, feel free to speak to a madrichah, the nurse, or one of the doctors – whoever you feel most comfortable talking to.

If you have any medical problems at all, please come and see us during consultation times. That said, we would much rather meet you on the beach than in the clinic.

Happy camping!

The Camp Doctors

Letter from the Camp Doctors to Parents: Habonim Dror Machaneh always provides an incredible holiday for all campers. Each child’s physical, emotional and social needs are dealt with effectively by our experienced medical team. Dear Parents The leadership of Habonim have instituted a childcare resource facility at machaneh. In an unfamiliar environment, children may experience medical, social and emotional difficulties. To combat these problems, Habonim Dror provides the following free medical facilities and services on the campsite:  A team of doctors, nursing sisters, trained medics, shichvah medics, psychologists, social workers and counsellors are immediately available 24 hours a day. If need be, specialists are on call in Hermanus, as are private and public hospitals in the area.  A 16 bed, modern hospital for sleep-over patients.  A clinic with an examination room, treatment facilities and a well stocked dispensary.  All madrichim are trained and assisted by a team of counsellors, psychologists and social workers before and during machaneh to handle any problems. In order for us to provide the best possible medical care, we require the following from you: Honest and full completion of the parents’ medical, doctor's medical and counselors’ forms. In the past, some parents have, in collusion with their doctors, omitted important medical information (e.g. ADHD, epilepsy), for fear that their child may not be accepted to camp. We have found that most medical conditions, if well controlled, can be coped with at machaneh. Medical aid details and an indemnity form must be completed in full to facilitate referral. Please be aware that Habonim is not financially responsible for any X-rays, medication or consultations of any nature arranged at any outside (private or public) hospital. These costs must be covered by parents or medical aid. Payment will be requested prior to Habonim making any purchase or payment on your behalf. Before this occurs, Habonim will inform you of the situation and request your consent. Receipts will be provided so that you may claim the expense from your medical aid. If your child is on chronic medication (for any medical condition), please have the prescribing doctor notify us with the name of the drug, the dosage and when the drug is to be taken. Please provide your child with sufficient maintenance medication:  Asthma inhalers must be sent with your child and spares should be placed in the clinic for safeguarding. These will be returned at the end of machaneh if not used.  Ritalin and other medication for behavioural issues: In the past it has been extremely difficult for madrichim to manage channichim who have been taken off their long-term medication. Camp is an environment which requires concentration and good behaviour. For your child’s sake and his/her enjoyment of the machaneh, continuing his/her medication is essential. At the very least, this medication must be sent to the camp doctors or your child's Rosh Shichvah with a covering note from your doctor. We strongly advise you to take your child to the dentist or orthodontist before camp for a check-up. Please note that all participants require a tetanus vaccine before camp. The medical team ensure that only trustworthy and reputable medication is used; however often generics are more cost effective. If you are not happy about the use of these generics, please ensure that you send an antibiotic or other suitable medication with your child. It is compulsory for your child to hand these to the doctors for safekeeping, preventing inappropriate self dispensing. We are available for any discussion if necessary. All information will be kept strictly confidential. Yours sincerely The Machaneh Medical Team

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 19 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Contacting the Camp Office During machaneh The machaneh office can be contacted using the following details: Fax: (028) 316 4758 E-mail: [email protected] Please note that this email address is for contacting the heads of the camp only and not for contacting your children (the fax line is the same as the one used to contact your children).

Before machaneh The Rosh Machaneh (Jodi Wishnia) can be contacted at the JHB office: Telephone: (011) 786 7046 Fax: (011) 786 7047 E-mail: [email protected]

In an emergency Please mark all correspondence accordingly. In the event of an emergency during machaneh, you have three options:  Send a fax to 028 316 4758 with the words emergency written on it with your child’s name and shichvah.  If you need to make urgent or emergency contact with us on the weekend or on a public holiday, please contact Melissa Bennun on 073 705 7693. She will pass the message onto the Rosh Machaneh. Note that this cell phone number will only be available during machaneh and not before, and may ONLY BE USED FOR EMERGENCIES!  In the event that Melissa is unavailable, please contact Shirley Magid at the Habonim offices in Cape Town on 021 464 6763 or Louise Segall at the Jewish Community Centre in Cape Town on 021 464 6700. They will in turn contact the Rosh Machaneh. Last year we had problems with certain parents using the emergency contact numbers for anything but emergencies. This is not fair on those who have to deal with the calls and those who need to make urgent contact with us. Contacting Channichim

Your children can be contacted in the following ways. Correspondence will be delivered once per day:

Fax Faxes can be sent to (028) 316 4758. All faxes must be written on the official Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot letterhead (which you will receive at the parents’ meeting). Please ensure that you mark on the fax your child’s name and shichvah (e.g. Jonathan Cohen, Bonim). Note that you will not be able to receive faxes from your children. They may contact you by post, so please supply the necessary stamps, paper etc. for them to do so.

Post Post can be mailed to PO Box 183, Hermanus, 7200. Please address all letters including your child’s name and shichvah (e.g. Jonathan Cohen, Bonim).

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 20 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Some General (but Important!) Information

What about the beach? Swimming on the beach is strictly controlled and takes place only during specific times of the day. Swimming is only permitted when the life-guards are on duty and within a designated area. No surfboards etc. are allowed at Machaneh. Nobody is permitted on the beach without a hat and sunscreen. What about the tiyul (hike)? Every shichvah goes on a Tiyul in the nearby nature reserve, one of the highlights of Machaneh. Should your child not be able to walk for medical reasons, this must be stated on his or her medical form. To make the Tiyul experience as easy as possible, please make sure your child brings good walking shoes, cotton socks, a sun hat and a water bottle with to camp to use on this day. Do I need insurance? All campers are covered for personal accident on the plane, bus and at Machaneh. This coverage is limited, and is covered under an umbrella insurance policy for all the Zionist Youth Movements. Your Medical Aid subscription should thus be up-to-date. Please include all Medical Aid details on your form, and supply us with a copy of your Medical Aid card. Personal baggage and belongings are not insured by Habonim Dror (this applies to madrichim as well as channichim). Habonim Dror accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to camper’s clothing and personal belongings. Please do not bring any jewellery or valuable items to Machaneh. A cheap watch is advisable. We recommend that parents insure their child’s luggage and effects in full. What about the Kolbo (tuckshop)? A well stocked Kosher Kolbo is available at specific times each day (besides Shabbat). A recommended amount of R300 has been set on the form. If you have not submitted Kolbo money, please do so immediately. Our tuckshop runs on an account system and thus no cash needs to be brought to machaneh. Please note that all leftover tuckshop money will be donated to the Alec Rogoff Assist-A-Camper Appeal. Parents paying for camp over a long period of time: Any parent intending to pay for camp over more than a six month period needs to please arrange a meeting with the camp leadership immediately. Only parents who have met with the relevant persons regarding this will be afforded an extended payment period. Please contact our offices in this regard. Smoking Policy Habonim Dror Camp attempts to provide a healthy, clean and safe environment for all campers. We strongly discourage smoking and educate our channichim on the dangers of this habit. To this end, smoking of tobacco products by channichim at camp is not allowed. In line with the law, we permit only Sayarim and Shomrim campers to smoke at Machaneh, under very strict regulations. Should a channich in Sayarim or Shomrim suffer from a serious addiction to tobacco products, a letter can be drafted by the channich's parent/guardian to the camp executive at [email protected]. This letter must fully explain the nature of the camper's addiction.

On receipt of such a request, the Camp Executive will contact the parent/guardian of the channich and respond to the request. Only on approval will the channich be allowed to smoke subject to specific conditions. Any channich found smoking without parental permission will be disciplined accordingly and may be sent home. In addition, smoking in both Sayarim and Shomrim will only be permitted in a designated smoking area, at specific times, far from the main centre of the machaneh. Failure to smoke in these areas will be dealt with severely. Any other campers (including Sollelim channichim) found smoking will be disciplined accordingly and may be sent home. In addition, the use of drugs and alcohol is strictly prohibited for all campers (incl. madrichim) – please see the camp rules on page 7.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 21 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 What does Machaneh offer your Child?

Beautiful Campsite and Magnificent Secluded Beach The exquisite Habonim Dror campsite is famous for its superb modern facilities, pristine nature, picturesque setting and magnificent beach. Shtilim channichim stay in modern cabins while other campers stay in canvas tents under the beautiful indigenous trees.

Stringent Safety and Security Precautions 24 hour security is provided by the CSO on site, as well as during travel, hikes and outings. All swimming is supervised by professional lifeguards. Umbrella’s are available at the beach gate.

Nutritious, Filling and Balanced Kosher Meals We have realised over a number of years that the satisfactory quantity and quality of food at machaneh is central to the camp’s success. We always have a qualified chef in our kitchen to ensure nourishing and tasty meals. In addition, we have continued the extensive upgrade of our food stores and kitchen, in order to provide the healthiest and most nutritious diet to every camper. The hygienic mitbach (kitchen) is operated by a team of madrichim, known as the Meyasdim. Every day, selected groups of channichim from each shichvah come to help in the mitbach, a unique educational experience that teaches the channichim the value of hard work and helping others. All food purchasing and preparation is supervised by Beth Din mashgichim, with daily deliveries ensuring fresh supplies. All our food is 100% kosher.

Outstanding Medical and Childcare Facilities We have a modern clinic with a fully stocked dispensary and 16-bed hospital on the site. This is manned by experienced doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, professional medics, psychologists and social workers. In addition, each shichvah has at least two trained medics amongst its team of madrichim.

The Ultimate Jewish and Educational Experience Habonim Dror Machaneh is a celebration of Jewish culture. In addition to top quality Zionist education, the entire machaneh is filled with Jewish history, tradition, religion, identity and passion. The movement caters for diversity by providing numerous different avenues and activities. Each shichvah engages in Jewish texts, both modern and classical, and channichim are challenged to relate Jewish philosophy to contemporary social issues. Shabbat is a very special time at machaneh. For the entire Shabbat, the machaneh takes on a different feel. We begin with a moving tekes (ceremony) to welcome the Shabbat, followed by a choice of services and a delicious Shabbat dinner (one one shabat, siblings eat together). Guest lecturers and community rabbis are invited for the weekend. Our guests often partake in the engaging Limmud learning programmes which take place on Saturday afternoons, where channichim have the opportunity to choose from a range of presenters speaking on Jewish history and modern Jewish thought. Shabbat is concluded with a machaneh-wide Havdallah ceremony on Saturday evening, after which we bring in the new week with Habonim’s famous Habo party! For more information on Habonim’s education, please see the website or camp brochure.

A culture of working together Habonim is proud of this unique and important culture, where channichim help each other to serve meals, to clean the facilities and to prepare the day’s food in the kitchen.

A diverse range of people Young people from all walks of Jewish life attend Habonim Machaneh, making it the most vibrant Jewish event in the SA Jewish community! This December, we will also have channichim and madrichim join us from every corner of the world, including Israel, the UK, Australia, Canada, the US and New Zealand!

Free time Outside of structured hours, there is much to do during free time! From sports tournaments, to arts, crafts and guest speakers, no channich is ever bored! These hours are overseen by dedicated madrichim who make up the Chetz team. ‘Chetz’ is an acronym for ‘Chinnuch ve’Yetzirah’, the rough translation of which is ‘creative structured free time’.

WHAT IS AN AVERAGE DAY AT CAMP LIKE?  08h30 Wake up! – Time is given for showering, brushing teeth and tidying up.  09h00 Breakfast is served by an alternating group of channichim and announcements are made.  10h00 Morning peulah (activity) – This is often educational and deals with a wide variety of topics from Judaism and Zionism to societal issues. These peulot are run using classic informal methodologies including activities and games to stimulate thinking and participation. A balance between active and passive activities is maintained.  11h30 Beach/Free time – Other options include interest groups, sports and creative activities.  13h30 Lunch  14h30 Afternoon peulah (activity) – Usually building on a concept dealt with in the morning.  16h00 Beach/Free time – Again, options include interest groups, sports and creative activities.  17h30 Shower Time – Channichim clean their tents and prepare for the evening.  18h15 Gedud meeting – Meeting time for smaller groups of channichim with a madrich.  19h00 Dinner  20h30 Evening peulah (activity) – This may be culturally orientated (e.g. drama or music) and often involves the wider machaneh.

In free time, madrichim spend time with their channichim, and it is this bond of friendship and education that makes the madrich- channich relationship so special. There are also tiyulim (hikes) and various projects that the channichim undertake. These include organising a talent show, a carnival and social action projects.

CHILDCARE AT HABONIM MACHANEH The madrichim undergo extensive childcare training workshops so that they are well equipped to make the machaneh’s social experience as smooth as possible. Sometimes children experience social and emotional difficulties as a result of being in unfamiliar surroundings and these are normally well handled by the madrichim. To assist in this process, we have a team of specialist child psychologists and social workers on site who are available for consultation with the madrichim.

Contrary to popular opinion, camp is in fact an unsuitable environment for children with emotional or psychiatric problems. In our experience it is best for these children not to attend. We would like to stress that camp is also not the time to take a child off regular medication.

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 23 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Campsite Improvements and the Habonim Dror Foundation

The Habonim Dror Foundation was established in February 2004 in order to transform the movement's chronic financial position to one of eventual sustainability. This was necessitated by ever-declining funding and the movement's desire to be financially independent.

The primary means of attaining this goal is through the development and upgrade of the Habonim campsite. This will see the movement support itself through income generated from the letting of the site during the year to various groups from around the country. We aim to make the Habonim Campsite the premier outdoor and conference centre in South Africa.

The extensive upgrade of the ‘Shtilim’ and ‘Sollelim’ areas has been the focus of the Campsite Development Project since its inception. These completed facilities are in high demand during the year, and have proven to be a massive success at Habonim events over the past few years.

Latest Improvements!

The ‘Docsville Project’ involves a complete revamp of the historical campsite hospital complex. Last year, we opened our brand new clinic and sick-bay which was utilised with huge success during Machaneh 2009 – and is undoubtedly the top medical complex on any campsite in the country! In addition, new, modernized accommodation is being built for use by our medical and administrative staff during machaneh. Funding permitting, we plan to complete the Docsville Project by June 2011.

Both Habonim Dror SA and the Habonim Dror Foundation are registered Public Benefit Organizations (PBOs). Certain individuals and trusts have given generously in order to complete these projects. Please contact Daniel Barnett on [email protected] or 021 464 6763 for more information or to donate.

NEW CHALLENGES FOR THE HABONIM DROR FOUNDATION:  New facilities for educational activities, discussions and lectures  The long-term replanting of alien and other unwanted vegetation  Improved safety and security, including the replacement of 60% of the perimeter fence  Kitchen upgrade  Roads upgrade  Electrical improvements  Upgrade of waterworks, sewerage and drainage

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 24 of 25 Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 9th– 29th December 2010 Important Dates for 2011!!!

PLEASE ATTACH THIS PAGE TO YOUR FRIDGE

In order for you to plan your 2011 year properly, we have included provisional dates for all major Habonim events happening in 2011.

Please note that regular meetings are run in both Johannesburg and Cape Town for all ages, while mini machanot take place twice a year (in addition to other events) in the Eastern Cape and Durban. Please contact your local office for more details.

Please be aware that these dates may change and are not final.

Veida 26-29 January

Shnat Seminar: 30 January–2nd February

CT Mini Machaneh 1: 18–20 March

JHB Mini Machaneh 1: 18-20 March

Nat. Hadracha Seminar: 17-22 April

Shorashim: 3-24 July

Winter Camp: 11-16 July

JHB Mini Machaneh 2: 26–28 August

CT Mini Machaneh 2: 26 –28 August

Machaneh 2011: 8-28 December

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Looking forward to seeing you at Habonim Dror Machaneh Koach Le’Shanot 2010!

Machaneh Information Book www.habo.org.za Page 25 of 25