FAMILY GUIDE 2021

1 WELCOME TO AN IMPORTANT PARTNERSHIP!

Camp Chi Families,

Welcome and congratulations on choosing JCC Camp Chi From the onset of the pandemic, we have been evaluating, as your camper’s summer home. We know there are many planning, and preparing for Summer 2021. Creating and choices for summer camp, and we are thrilled you have maintaining a healthy and safe environment for everyone chosen to be part of the Camp Chi family. For 100 years, has always been and remains our top priority. As we Camp Chi has been a leader and innovator in the camping focus in on this coming summer and the complexities industry. Known around the country and world for being of COVID-19, we continue to learn, study and monitor one of the premiere Jewish summer camps, Chi has been guidance provided by local and state health agencies, recognized by many organizations including Make It Better the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the American (voted Best Of 2014-2019), Foundation for Jewish Camp, She Camp Association (ACA), and trusted leaders of camps Knows (Top 20 Summer Camps), NorthShore Choice (2017 that operated last summer and those preparing for the Award Winner), and JCC Association of North America. upcoming summer. The most up to date version of our COVID-19 plans can be found at https://campchi.jccchicago. When you entrust your camper to our care, we want you to org/camp-chi-summer-2021-health-and-safety/. While we think of us as your partner in your camper’s well-being. As have updated many sections of the Family Guide for 2021, partners, we promise to keep your camper safe and healthy, most of the COVID-specific updates can be found online. If while providing a community of friends where they can you have further questions, or if there is any way we can be become more independent and grow as individuals. The of assistance, contact our offices anytime. better prepared we are before camp, the better we can help your camper be successful once they are here. Once you Camp Chi Staff share information with us, our promise is to share it only 847-763-3551 with the people who will have direct contact with your [email protected] camper. This may be our medical staff, social workers or your camper’s village leader and counselors. In return, we will do our best to keep you updated and informed on the happenings at Chi and your camper’s progress at camp. The partnership continues through the summer and throughout your camper’s years at Camp Chi.

This family guide was designed to jump-start our partnership, providing answers to many common questions, and helping families understand the systems and procedures of Camp Chi that will be helpful before, during, and even after camp. We hope to make this summer an amazing experience your camper will remember for the rest of their lives.

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CAMP CHI BASICS ...... 3 CAMPER CARE ...... 16

American Camp Association (ACA) Accreditation . . . .3 STRUCTURE OF CAMP ...... 16 Camp Chi Vision & Mission ...... 3 DAILY SCHEDULE ...... 17 Where is Chi? ...... 3 2021 Session Dates, Grades and Fees ...... 3 MEET THE STAFF ...... 18 Villages & Cabins ...... 4 JEWISH LIFE AT CAMP CHI ...... 19 Camp Chi Website ...... 4 Bar/Bat Mitzvah Tutoring ...... 19 CampInTouch ...... 4 SECURITY & SAFETY ...... 19 COMMUNICATION ...... 5 FOOD SERVICE ...... 20 How to Contact Us ...... 5 Food Allergies ...... 20 How to Contact Your Camper ...... 5 Peanut & Tree Nut Allergies ...... 20 How We Communicate with You ...... 6 Picky Eaters ...... 20 CAMPER FORMS ...... 7 CANTEEN ...... 21 All About My Child ...... 7 Canteen Refunds ...... 21 Friendship Requests ...... 7 LAUNDRY ...... 21 Physician Exams & Immunizations ...... 8 Medical Insurance (Parent Authorization Form) . . . . .8 OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION ...... 22 HEALTH CENTER & MEDICATION ...... 9 IMPORTANT CAMP CHI POLICIES ...... 23 Medications ...... 9 Walgreens ...... 9 Over-the-Counter Medications ...... 10 Lice ...... 10 Communication with the Health Center ...... 10 PACKING ...... 11 Labeling ...... 11 Items NOT Allowed at Camp ...... 11 Items Not Recommended for Camp ...... 11 Spending Money/Trip Account ...... 11 TRANSPORTATION & LUGGAGE ...... 12 Busing ...... 12 Air Travel ...... 12 Driving to/from Camp ...... 12 Luggage ...... 13 Travel Information Form ...... 13 Pacific Northwest Trip & Try Chi Transportation . . . 13 LIVING IN A COMMUNITY ...... 14 Camper Contract ...... 14 Community Agreement on Bullying ...... 15

3 CAMP CHI BASICS

AMERICAN CAMP ASSOCIATION (ACA) ACCREDITATION As an ACA accredited camp, we guarantee a well-trained staff, with a background check run on every person, Wconsi appropriate camper to staff ratios, camp activities that assist with the development of our campers, facilities that are clean and maintained, and a safe environment for all of MINNEAPOLIS the campers and staff. To be and remain accredited, there is (3.5 hours) Lake Delton a long list of standards Camp Chi must meet each year. CAMP CHI VISION MADISON Camp Chi will build a strong, inclusive, tradition-rich (1 hour) camp community that teaches life lessons and celebrates DES MOINES CHICAGO individual growth. Through deep connections to nature, (5 hours) (3 hours) O’HARE Shabbat and Israel, Camp Chi lights a flame within each (3 hours) individual - igniting and strengthening friendships, INDIANAPOLIS lifetime connections to Camp Chi, and Jewish life. (6 hours) CAMP CHI MISSION Camp Chi inspires and educates generations of campers through exceptional transformative Jewish communal and recreational experiences. CAMP CHI VALUES Camp Chi has three core values: kavod (respect), chesed (kindness) and kehillah (community). These values are the basis of everything we do and we infuse these values, 2021 SESSION DATES, GRADES & FEES and more, into the daily life at Chi, from programming to teachable moments, we provide our campers with PROGRAM GRADE DATES FEE a different language to look at and solve the issue by embodying these values. Four-Week Sessions CAMP CHI INCLUSION STATEMENT Session 1A 4th-5th 6/20-7/16 $5,220 Session 1A 6th-10th 6/20-7/16 $5,560 JCC Camp Chi strives to create an inclusive and safe Session 2 4th-5th 7/18-8/13 $5,220 community for everyone regardless of abilities, gender, sex, sexual orientation and/or expression, race, religion, or any Session 2 6th-10th 7/18-8/13 $5,560 other status protected by law. We stand for respect, treating all people with kindness, and embracing the diversity of Three-Week Sessions our community. We recognize that each camper and staff Session 1B 4th-5th 6/20-7/9 $3,910 member has different needs and abilities, and agree to Session 1B 6th-10th 6/20-7/9 $4,145 work with each individual to support them at JCC Camp Chi. Full inclusion statement can be found on our website- campchi.org Eight-Week Sessions Full Summer 4th-10th 6/20-8/13 $8,105 WHERE IS CHI? SIT 11th 6/20-8/13 $6,695 Camp Chi is nestled on 600 acres in Lake Delton, Wisconsin, about 3 hours from Chicago — just outside the Mini Sessions Wisconsin Dells. Our location allows us to optimize the Take 2 3rd-10th 6/20-7/2 $2,445 beauty of the nature around us, while also enjoying the amenities a town like the Dells has, including waterparks, SIT 3rd-7th 7/18-8/1 $2,605 Walmart, and medical facilities all just minutes away. Try Chi Try Chi 2nd-6th 8/15-8/18 $375

4 CAMP CHI BASICS (CONT’D)

VILLAGES & CABINS CAMP CHI WEBSITE Camp Chi is divided into age groups called villages and This guide is designed to jump-start your camp journey. It is made up of cabins that are separated by gender. Cabins will answer many questions, but definitely not all of them. are often where campers find new friends and form special Please visit our website at www.campchi.org which has relationships that can only come from living together. It’s even more information. also where campers learn the give and take of sharing, compromise and making decisions as a group. CAMPINTOUCH Every Camp Chi family has a CampInTouch account. We like to say that your camper’s cabin is their immediate This secure account is where you register for camp, make family and the village is extended family. Every cabin is payments and view payment history, complete camper made up of about 10-12 campers and four staff members, forms, view photos over the summer, send your camper who help the campers find social connections, navigate emails, and much more. Make sure you save the web group dynamics and gain interpersonal skills. address as this will become your go-to link for getting your camper signed up and ready for camp, and GRADE (in Fall) VILLAGE NAME communicating with them while they are at camp: https://chi.campintouch.com/v2/login.aspx 3- 4- & 8-Week Sessions: 4th & 5th Grade Shoreshim 6th Grade Tsofim 7th Grade Chalutzim 8th Grade Habonim 9th & 10th Grade Noar 11th Grade Staff In Training (SIT)

Mini Sessions: 3rd Grade Garinim 4th & 5th Grade Yeladim 6th & 7th Grade Kadima

Try Chi: 2nd-6th Grade Try Chi

5 COMMUNICATION Open and clear two-way communication is necessary to *Unsure of what village your camper is in? Refer to the grade/ ensure our partnership is successful. village chart on page 3. HOW TO CONTACT US Packages At any time, you are able to call the Camp Chi office at Camp Chi’s package policy is meant to balance the needs 847-763-3551 and speak to a staff member. During the and wishes of parents, campers and camp staff with safety summer, the office is staffed from 8am-9pm. If you cannot and feasibility of distribution. We allow families to send reach someone and it is an emergency, or if it is after hours, care packages by following these very specific guidelines. you can dial 6 from the main menu, which will page the • Campers may receive envelopes not larger than emergency line. 12” x 15” and 1” thick Your camper’s village leader will be your main contact over • We will not accept any boxes or envelopes larger than the summer. The village leaders are in the field, working 12” x 15” x 1” directly with the counselors and campers, and can give • Food cannot be sent to campers. Any food items sent you the most accurate information about your camper. will be confiscated and donated to a local charity. Often when you call, you will be transferred to their voice mail. Village leaders return calls as soon as possible, • Additional packages can be purchased from the Camp often within 12 hours, between the hours of 8am-9pm, Chi Canteen or one of our approved vendors (see section unless the call is urgent. Please be patient as they spend below for approved vendors). most of their time out in camp, not in the office, and have Please share this information with grandparents, aunts, uncles, to get to the office to check their voice mail. siblings, friends and anyone else who may want to send a package Before camp, you will also be given an email address for to your camper. Any unapproved packages may be opened and your village leader. You can email them anytime and they could be returned to sender at the cost of the sender. We are not will get back to you either by phone or email, as quickly as responsible for lost/damaged packages. possible, again within 12 hours. You can also always email We will allow packages from one of our two approved us at [email protected] vendors: Our full-time staff supervise the village leaders and are 1. Camp Chi Canteen: http://gear.campchi.com or always happy to discuss your camper with you and your 847.763.3677 camper’s village leader(s). 2. Camp Pacs: www.camppacs.com or 800.248.2267 HOW TO CONTACT YOUR CAMPER We want to help parents in any way we can. If there There are three great ways to stay in touch with your is something that your camper needs at camp (i.e. camper while they are at Camp Chi! replacement eye glasses, books for school), please contact Email one of the full-time staff or your camper’s village leader before sending it. We can give you instructions for making Through your CampInTouch account, you can email your sure that limited necessity items can be delivered to your camper. After logging in, click on the email link, the camper. Please keep in mind that campers can purchase system will take you to a page to email your camper(s). many necessity and toiletry items at the Chi Canteen. Standard emails without add-ons (e.g. Stationary, Smart Words & Sudoku) are free. Add-ons require “campstamps,” Phone Calls which can be purchased by clicking on the “buy more” Parents are not permitted to call campers unless it is link at the top of the page. These purchases are through the camper’s birthday, or the call has been approved by the CampInTouch not Camp Chi. Please limit your emails to Camp Directors. Parental phone calls often interfere with one per day. Emails are printed in black-and-white every camper adjustment, increase the likelihood of morning and delivered to your camper(s) at lunchtime. homesickness and disrupt scheduled activities. Snail Mail HOW WE COMMUNICATE WITH YOU Campers love getting regular mail — it is exciting and Emails different from the everyday emails. You Camp Chi and JCC Chicago utilize email as one of our can send mail to the following address: basic means of communication. Throughout the summer Camper Name and during the year as well, we send many emails from Camper Village* and Gender JCC Camp Chi ([email protected]). Please be sure to add PO Box 104 this name and email to your address book, safe list, etc. Lake Delton, WI 53940 and check your spam/junk/clutter folder often. 6 COMMUNICATION (CONT’D)

It is important that you do not “opt out” of receiving JCC village and learn what that particular village’s culture is so Chicago or Camp Chi emails. Opting out of these emails that we can convey it to you through photos. will prevent you from receiving important information regarding Camp Chi programs, updates and news. We will do our best to make sure every cabin has a group photo on most days and guarantee that a group photo During the summer, your camper’s village leader will of the whole cabin is taken at least every three days. have an email address and may reach out to you via email. In addition to these, we will continue to capture the Again, please check your spam/junk/clutter folder often, moments that make camp special and share them in the as sometimes our message ends up there. village albums. Please note that due to the diverse and complicated nature of the PNW and SIT programs, their If you are not certain that we have a correct email address photos may or may not meet the same guidelines, but we for your family, please call our office at 847.763.3551. promise to post pictures of them for you to see.

Phone Calls Any special events or programs in camp (i.e. 4th of July, Camp Chi staff will contact parents for a plethora of Camp Play, etc.) will have their own albums posted on reasons. Over the summer you may hear from the office CampInTouch the day after the event or program and will staff, health center, canteen, your camper’s village leaders, be titled as such. or one of the full-time staff. Contrary to what many families believe, getting a phone call from camp is not Please keep the following notes in mind about our photo necessarily a bad thing. We often call just to give an procedures: update on how your camper is adjusting or to celebrate your camper’s achievement and make you aware. • Our photos are intended to provide you with a glimpse of what is happening at camp and not a photo gallery Our goal is to contact the family of every first-time camper of one camper’s experiences. Each photo is a snapshot of to provide an update on their adjustment to camp within a moment of the day. the first week of camp. We will also contact you to discuss • We ask campers not to use hand signs and will have certain situations, extreme cases of homesickness, unusual them put their hands down before taking the photo. or concerning behavior. • We never force a camper to be in a photo if he or she For instances when you will hear from the Health Center, doesn’t want to pose. We understand that some campers refer to page 10. (and staff) just don’t like being in pictures. Mail/Letters: • We will always put more attention into making sure Campers are required to write home at least twice a week. that we have the best care, activities, supervision and Once a week, we provide a postcard for them to write, and fun that we can provide over making sure that we are we mail home. The other time, they must bring a letter capturing the perfect photo. to the dining hall that serves as their meal ticket. Many • The CampInTouch system will be updated daily at the campers choose to write home more often than this, and earliest 11am and 2pm at the latest. Please note that we some write two words before sealing the envelope. We upload a lot of photos and camp does not have the best highly encourage families to establish realistic expectations internet connection, so it may take a while for the photos before camp begins with how often letters will be sent, to upload. how long they will be, etc. We are not responsible for the content or length of the letters campers send. Newsletters & CampInTouch Updates Over the Summer, CampInTouch is your main location to Please note it can sometimes take up to 7 days for mail to see and hear what is happening at camp. Each day, except reach home from Wisconsin. for Shabbat, we will post an update on the previous day and share the weather forecast and menu for that day. Photos Photos will be added to Twice a week, Village Newsletters are posted as well, CampInTouch by village each which will help chronicle the happenings in your day, except for Shabbat. camper’s village.

Camp Chi employs a photography team each summer. Each member of the communication team will be responsible for taking photos for 2 villages. In assigning these responsibilities we hope to allow the team to get to know the campers in the 7 CAMPER FORMS

Your camper’s success is our highest priority. That is why FRIENDSHIP REQUESTS we ask you to fill out a variety of forms. We ask you to fill Camp provides a wonderful opportunity to meet new out all the forms honestly and thoroughly. The more friends, however, if your camper is coming to camp with a details you provide, the better prepared we are to help friend, you may both request to be placed in the same cabin. your camper have a safe, happy and memorable time at Because we know how important cabin groupings are to camp. The information provided on the camper forms are the camp experience, Camp Chi takes the group placement what we use to make cabin assignments and provide process seriously and it is one of our biggest priorities. specific training to the cabin staff. The process of making cabin groups is very complex and Over the years, we have received questions from parents/ difficult. We try our best to make sure that everyone will be guardians who are concerned about the types of personal happy. Please help us consider all campers’ feelings when information we request on our forms. Some parents/ making requests and understand that friendship requests guardians are reluctant to share certain information are not guaranteed. We strongly discourage friendship with us because of a concern about confidentiality or chains (linking multiple friends), as they will be broken stigmatizing their camper. As camp can be a “fresh start,” during the grouping process. some parents/guardians worry that by disclosing personal information, it may create bias against their Camp Chi has put into place the following policies to help camper. In some cases, parents/guardians have told us ensure the formation of cohesive cabin groups: their camper has sworn them to secrecy because they are too embarrassed and don’t want anyone to know about • All requests must be in writing through the form in things like bedwetting, a tic disorder, ADD/ADHD, or an your CampInTouch account. IEP they are on at school. We understand and respect those • Friendship request form is to be submitted no later than concerns, but emphatically believe that it is better to share the April 1st. concern with us than to keep it a secret. • Changes or additional friendship requests will not be Remember, we are a care-providing partner and your considered after May 1st. camper’s well-being and success is our top priority. We • Negative friendship requests are strongly discouraged. can keep our end of the partnership only if we have the If there is a significant situation that we should be aware information to prepare our medical staff and counselors of, please contact our office to discuss it further. to ensure your camper is well cared for and free to have • Friendship requests of any nature cannot be kept the best summer. Once you share information with us, confidential by camp staff. our promise is to share it only with the people who will have direct contact with your camper. This may be our • We will recognize only 2 friendship requests per medical staff, social workers or your child’s village leader session. and counselors. • While no requests are guaranteed, we do our best to honor all mutual requests. Camp Chi will contact the We believe that working together is the best chance we families involved in the event a mutual request cannot have of helping your camper have a safe, happy and be accommodated. successful time at camp. Please call us to discuss anything in greater detail or if you would feel more comfortable Due to the complexities of forming the cabin groupings, talking to us rather than putting it down on paper. cabin placements will not be released prior to the Forms are due by April 1. Forms can be found in your beginning of the camper’s session. Please do not call our CampInTouch account, under “Forms and Documents.” office requesting this information. If you registered for camp after April 1, please submit all forms within 10 days of registering. ALL ABOUT MY CAMPER This is the most important form to help our counselors be prepared to ensure your camper has a successful summer. With information about your camper’s interests, social dynamics, and more, it is imperative that you fill this form out honestly and thoroughly. Again, the more information you can provide, the better prepared we can be.

8 CAMPER FORMS (CONT’D)

PHYSICIAN EXAMS & IMMUNIZATIONS MEDICAL INSURANCE AND PARENT AUTHORIZATION FORM No camper will be allowed at camp or allowed to board the bus for camp unless the office has received a signed and Camp Chi does not provide medical insurance coverage completed medical and immunization record. for accidents or injuries that occur while attending or participating in any activity at, or sponsored by, Camp Chi. All campers must have had a physical after September 2020 signed by the camper’s physician or health department Campers MUST have a photocopy of the family’s medical representative prior to the first day of the program. If the insurance card (front and back) on file at camp. This card physical condition of the child is such that any one or more provides camp medical staff with vital information needed of the immunizing agents should not be administered, in an emergency or for off-campus treatment. Campers the examining physician, advanced practice nurse, or without proof of medical insurance prior to camp will not physician assistant responsible for the performance of be permitted to attend. the health examination shall endorse that fact upon the health examination form. No other exceptions to scheduled No camper will be allowed at camp or allowed to board immunizations are permitted. It is the responsibility of the bus for camp unless the office has received a signed the parent (or legal guardian) to update their file when the and completed proof of medical insurance on the Parent health records change. Authorization form.

Camp Chi meets the health and safety standards of the State of Wisconsin and the American Camp Association. Camp programs, including Camp Chi, are required to maintain participant medical information and treatment authorization forms on file. We respect the privacy of our participants and maintain confidentiality.

9 HEALTH CENTER & MEDICATION

Our goal is to keep all campers and staff healthy and safe • The deadline for campers attending Session IA, Session at all times - a key component of that being our Health IB, Take Two, Full Summer, or SITs is May 1, 2021 The Center. The brand-new Atkins Family Health Center is deadline for campers attending Session II or Mini Ses- centrally located, air-conditioned and a state-of-the-art sion 2 is June 1, 2021 facility, staffed by 7 nurses, 3 health center interns, who • Any medications sent to J Drugs for repackaging will be are usually nursing students, and a physician. We have charged a $20 packaging fee. two nebulizers at camp so campers needing nebulizer treatments do not need to bring their own to camp. • Please review the Parent FAQs in your CampInTouch ac- count for any questions. You can always contact J Drugs Emergency medical treatment is available at a nearby at 718-258-6686 or by email at [email protected] hospital. Emergency dental treatment and eye glass repair Please Note: Campers must also register with Walgreens are available in the Dells area at parents’ expense. Pharmacy in addition to registering with J Drugs in the event Campers receive excellent medical attention should they your camper requires prescribed medicine at camp. require treatment, take daily medications or are admitted Any camper who does not comply with our prescription for an overnight stay. Your camper is our first priority. Be process and brings medication to camp on their own will confident that our professional medical staff is committed be charged $100. to ensuring the health and safety of your camper. This means that they will care for and treat your camper first All medication orders must be received 30 days prior to and then make every effort to call you. start of the session. All orders after that will incur an MEDICATIONS additional $25.00 late charge plus any expedited shipping charges. To ensure the best possible quality of care in our health center, we require all campers who take prescriptions, OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS supplements, vitamins and/or over-the-counter Any medication your camper takes regularly should go medications to enroll in a pharmacy service provided by through J Drugs. For occasional use, the Health Center J Drugs Pharmacy. This service ensures higher efficiency, does have over-the-counter pain medication, cough syrup, lower risk of error, reduced waiting time for your campers etc., on hand. and increased focus on their overall health. WALGREENS Campers using rescue inhalers, EpiPens and injectable You will receive more information from us regarding our medication (i.e. growth hormones) do not need to use J affiliation with Walgreens Pharmacy. If our camp physician Drugs for these items. The only other exception is if the prescribes medication for your camper while at camp, we pharmacy notifies us that they are unable to accept your will use Walgreens Pharmacy to fill the prescription. Please insurance or fill a particular medication. register your camper and your insurance information J Drugs will package your camper’s meds and deliver them either online or at your local Walgreens according to the directly to camp prior to your camper’s arrival. All pills instructions in the letter. Registering with Walgreens is in will be pre-packaged in dose packs. J Drugs will manage addition to submitting prescriptions to J Drugs. We have every step of the process, including insurance payments, a very limited supply of prescription medications in the dispensing and delivery. Health Center. If any of these are administered to your camper, a nominal fee will be charged. Please follow these instructions:

• Please print or use the J Drugs Pharmacy Order Form (located in CampInTouch). • Fill out the order form and attach all prescriptions from your doctor to the form when submitting. If your camp- er is ordering non-prescription items (OTC medications, vitamins, and/or supplements) a doctor’s note or par- ent’s note is required. • Mail (1205 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230),fax (718-258- 1230) or email ([email protected])the order form and prescriptions to J Drugs Pharmacy.

10 HEALTH CENTER & MEDICATION (CONT’D)

LICE COMMUNICATION WITH THE HEALTH CENTER Head lice are a growing problem in schools and other Parents/Guardians WILL be contacted by Health Center programs, such as camps, where people are in close contact staff if: to one another. The nature of the lice life cycle can make • Your camper has been admitted to and stays overnight it very difficult to identify cases of lice, particularly in in the Health Center. the early stages. With this in mind, we implement the following policies and procedures to reduce the likelihood • Your camper is placed on prescription medication. of a lice outbreak at camp as well as being sensitive to the • Your camper medication dosage needs to be changed by workload of our Health Center staff. our doctor.

1. Prior to camp, we strongly recommend having your • Your camper has a fever of 100ºF or higher. camper checked for lice by your pediatrician or a • Your camper has been taken to an off-site physician or certified lice specialist. This is especially important emergency room. if your child has had lice or been exposed to lice in the • We have questions regarding your camper’s health or months leading up to camp. changes to your camper’s health. 2. Within the first 24 hours of camp, we employ a • Your camper is seen by the camp doctor. professional lice and nit removal and treatment service to do an initial screening of every camper and staff • Your camper enters isolation due to a positive COVID-19 member. test or exposure to a positive individual. 3. If your camper is identified as having lice or nits, either Parents/Guardians WILL NOT be contacted by Health the professional lice specialist or Chi Health Center staff Center staff if: will contact you. 4. The professional lice company will provide treatment • Your camper receives a small cut or scrape. for your camper at your expense. Regardless of severity, • Your camper receives over-the-counter medications, they charge $150 for treatment. Treatment may take mul- such as Tylenol, Tums, cough drops, etc. tiple days. Camp Chi will not incur the cost of treatment • Your camper rests in the Health Center for a short nor provide a refund of tuition or fees for any camp period of time. activities missed. We have created this policy in consultation with medical professionals, lice specialists and other overnight camps, COVID-19 which all recognize the challenges in identifying and Creating and maintaining a healthy and safe environment removing lice from camp communities. Our hope is that for everyone has always been and remains our top detecting any suspected lice or nits upon arrival at camp priority. As we focus in on this coming summer and the will reduce or eliminate this issue from camp. With the complexities of COVID-19, we continue to learn, study work and effort we employ at the start of a session, we will and monitor guidance provided by local and state health not screen campers before they return home. agencies, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the American Camp Association (ACA), and trusted leaders of camps that operated last summer and those preparing for the upcoming summer.

The most up to date version of our COVID response plan can be found at campchi.jccchicago.org/camp-chi-summer- 2021-health-and-safety

11 PACKING

All items should be packed in no more than 2 duffel bags • Food items, including bottled water and other beverages (without wheels) and 1 carry-on bag/backpack. We put • Knives or weapons of any kind* together packing lists to be a guide for families, but you should adjust items based on the needs of your camper. • Money The Chi packing list is designed for 10 days of camp, which *Bringing any of these items will result in immediate makes it useful for all of our sessions. Packing lists and expulsion from camp with no refund of tuition or fees. packing tips can be found online at: https://campchi.jcc chicago.org/preparing-for-camp/packing/ ITEMS NOT RECOMMENDED FOR CAMP LABELING Camp Chi does not assume responsibility for any lost, broken or stolen items, including these which we The easiest way for our campers to keep all their discourage bringing: belongings is to label all of their belongings – every single item – with their FIRST AND LAST NAME. This includes • Handheld electronic games clothes (even socks, underwear and shoes,) towels, • iPods (music only) or MP3 players cameras, books, and any other possessions you sent to camp. Labeling can be as simple as writing your camper’s • Digital or expensive cameras name (or first initial and last name) on tags of clothing or • Musical instruments (except for guitars) you can purchase labels with your camper’s name on them. • Designer clothing We have two preferred vendors that you can purchase As a general rule, anything valuable that a camper would labels through: Mabel’s Labels (www.camps.mabelslabels. be upset if lost, broken, ruined or stolen should not be com) or Label Daddy (www.labeldaddy.com,) both of brought to camp. So while you may bring a device that whom carry a wide variety of sewn, iron-on and sticky allows you to listen to music, you cannot bring a device labels, and donate a portion of all proceeds back to Camp that can connect to the Internet, and we do not recommend Chi. Labeling your campers’ belongings helps us return anything that would cause you to get upset if it were lost, misplaced items. broken, ruined, etc. ITEMS NOT ALLOWED AT CAMP SPENDING MONEY/TRIP ACCOUNT We see camp as a healthy escape from the instant Please do not send your camper to camp with money. In the communication and technology overload that bombards past, we have seen many campers lose or misplace money our campers on a daily basis. For many campers (and in their cabins. Camp Chi does not assume any financial their parents,) separating from cell phones and the responsibility for money brought to camp, instead, we have internet is challenging. However, we expect parents to created systems by which campers will not need cash while fully support our mission to keep these things out of camp at camp. Campers wanting to purchase a snack or Chi gear and to ensure that Chi remains a wholesome, outdoorsy can do so through their canteen account established upon and safe place for all kids. registration for this summer.

Items on this list will be confiscated and may or may not be returned at the end of camp:

• Alcohol, tobacco, controlled substances, vaping devices, etc.* • Cell phones • Any electronic devices that can connect to the Internet, including computers, iPod Touch, iPads and other tablets, eReaders, portable game systems or other similar equipment • Other electronics, including DVD players, televisions, video cameras, walkie-talkies, etc. • Flammable materials (cigarettes, matches, fireworks, lighters, butane, incense, candles, etc.) and hot pots

12 TRANSPORTATION & LUGGAGE

Camp Chi is located about 3 hours from Chicago, 3 ½ hours On the trip home, we are unable to go into O’Hare, so from Minnesota and 6 hours from Indianapolis. We offer a our staff cannot help campers check in or escort campers variety of ways to help get your camper to camp. through security as unaccompanied minors as we have in the past. However, we are able to transport campers BUSING to O’Hare where they can meet family members to travel Optional bus transportation is available from the home with or fly home on their own. These campers and Chicagoland area. Campers travel via comfortable, air- their bags would arrive at a central location where family conditioned, washroom-equipped coach buses leaving members would sign the campers out and collect their from and returning to a central location near your belongings. home. We also occasionally use smaller buses or vans DRIVING TO/FROM CAMP for transportation. You can find details about dates and times of departure and arrival on your Travel Information Families have the option to drive their camper to camp form, and we will send updates and reminders as camp and/or pick them up from camp. approaches. Spaces are limited on the bus. If your camper is not currently registered for the bus and you would like • Families choosing to drop off their camper will be to reserve a space, please fill out the assigned a drop off window that corresponds to their CampInTouch Travel Information form ASAP. We will cohort. Families with more than one camper can drop make every effort to accommodate your needs but will not off both campers with their first camper, and that camp- be able to make any changes after June 1. er will be with staff in their cohort until the rest of their cohort/pod arrives on the bus. Busing costs $100 each way, and the fees are not added • Picking up your camper at the end of camp takes place to your account until after you submit your Travel at our front office between 9:00-9:30am. Campers and Information Form. their luggage will be brought up to the office to meet Bus Times (To Camp) you at this time. A bathroom for family members will For the way to camp, families will receive specific travel not be available. instructions with bus site assignment, check in and departure times, etc. about a month before camp. LUGGAGE

On the return trip from camp, campers are expected to All items should be packed in no more than 2 duffel bags arrive at return bus sites around 1:30pm. (without wheels) and 1 carry-on bag/backpack. Luggage Tags Food for the Bus We will mail you a bus packet 3-4 weeks prior to the start On the way to camp, campers are allowed to bring a small of camp. This packet will include colored luggage tags to snack and a water bottle, but must remain masked when use to label your camper’s bags. We use these tags to sort not eating or drinking. The first meal served will be either luggage at camp. All luggage will be delivered to your lunch or dinner depending on your camper’s arrival time. camper’s village by our staff. Snacks will be available for all campers upon arrival. Camp Chi will provide snacks for campers for the bus rides at the Getting Bags to Camp end of the session. For our Chicagoland families, we partner with Camp Laundry & Baggage to provide luggage services at the start AIR TRAVEL of Session 1 and 2. As camp gets closer, we will distribute Camp Chi campers come from all over the United States the list of baggage drop sites, as well as drop off days and and world and we recognize that for some campers, times. Families will need to drop off the duffels at the most traveling by airplane is easier than getting to one of the convenient site during the appropriate hours. Staff from bus sites. Because we cannot transport campers from the Camp Laundry & Baggage will be on site to help you with airport by pod, we are not offering transportation to camp the bags. The bags will then be transported to camp, where from the airport. Instead, we are asking families to either our staff will deliver them to your camper’s village. arrive a day early and bring their camper to the assigned bus site or arrange for a friend or family member to bring Please note that Try Chi campers bring their bags to the bus with their camper to the assigned bus site. them.

13 TRANSPORTATION & LUGGAGE (CONT’D)

Coming from Outside Chicago? TRY CHI TRANSPORTATION Campers from communities outside the Chicago area, Bus travel works slightly different for Try Chi. Busing is including the Twin Cities and Indianapolis, who are taking included in the cost of Try Chi. Try Chi campers should the Chicago buses should bring their luggage to their bus bring all bags with them to the buses on the morning of site on the date of their departure. departure. There are two bus sites for Try Chi: Skokie and Northbrook. Try Chi campers should arrive at 8:30am on Driving or flying? the morning of departure, as the buses leave promptly Campers driving to camp will be greeted by camp staff at 9:00am. At the end of Try Chi, buses usually return who will take their luggage directly to their cabins for between 3:30-4pm. them.

Campers traveling by plane to camp can either ship their luggage to camp or bring it with them to the bus site. Please contact our office to discuss the options.

TRAVEL INFORMATION FORM The “Travel Information” form in CampInTouch should be filled out with your camper’s travel plans for camp, whether they are taking a bus, flight or driving to and/or from camp. If you are taking a bus to camp, this form gives you the opportunity to pick the bus site you prefer.

Busing costs $100 each way, and the fees are not added to your account until after you submit your Travel Information Form.

14 LIVING IN A COMMUNITY

Part of coming to camp is living in a community. Unlike 4. Campers will observe the nightly curfew as set by staff. at home, campers will be sharing a room with 10+ people Therefore, leaving your cabin after curfew is not accept- and we recognize this may be a new experience for some of able. our campers. Part of living in the Camp Chi community is 5. When participating on out-of-camp trips, campers are living the Chi core values of kavod (respect), chesed expected to represent themselves and JCC Camp Chi (kindness) and kehillah (community,) and following the in a positive way. Campers are not allowed off camp- rules we have laid out for everyone in our community. grounds at any time unless as part of an organized trip Much like our staff sign their contracts and agree to the with authorized staff members. Camp Chi Code of Honor, each camper is expected to (with a parent) review and sign the Camper Contract 6. Campers will respect each other’s privacy by not steal- and Community Agreement On Bullying located in your ing or borrowing others’ belongings without permis- CampInTouch account. These rules and policies help sion. Also, campers are not allowed in the living quar- establish a community culture at camp where everyone ters and the area surrounding the living quarters of the is aware of the guidelines and provide for a safe and fun opposite gender. camping experience. We take these rules very seriously at 7. Gambling is not allowed at any time. camp, and expect you and your camper’s support of them 8. Campers agree to follow all physical distancing, mask- as well. ing, and other COVID policies to do their part in helping CAMPER CONTRACT keep camp healthy. JCC Camp Chi’s goals for campers include developing 9. JCC Camp Chi maintains a safe, healthy, outdoor expe- strong group identity, respecting one another, challenging rience for all campers. To further this objective, certain one another on different levels, and allowing for a fun, items are not allowed in camp: recreational and rewarding camp experience. Camper • Alcohol, tobacco, vaping devices and products, safety and wellbeing is our primary concern. We want controlled substances, etc. each camper to have an exciting, fun-filled summer that is in the spirit of cooperation, respect (kavod), kindness • Cell phones (chesed), respect for the environment (shomrei adamah) and community (kehilla). • Any electronic device that can connect to the Internet, including computers, iPod Touch, To ensure that every member of the JCC Camp Chi iPads and other tablets, eReaders, portable community has a positive experience, consistent with game systems or other similar equipment the JCC Camp Chi goals stated above, all JCC Camp Chi campers must abide by the following standards of • Other electronics, including DVD players, behavior. televisions, video cameras, walkie-talkies, etc. • Flammable materials (cigarettes, matches, 1. Campers will treat other campers and staff with respect. fireworks, lighters, butane, incense, candles, Bullying, teasing and excluding others from the group etc.) and hot pots. will not be tolerated. 2. Every camper has the right to feel safe at all times. Hit- JCC Camp Chi reserves the right to confiscate items listed above ting or the use of physical force is not allowed. Similarly, and search a camper’s possessions if we have reason to suspect inappropriate language, including swearing or cursing, that the camper has any of these items or other substances does not have a place in the camp community. In addi- contrary to this policy. tion, inappropriate ? romantic ? relations, behaviors or physical contact between people will not be tolerated. Violations of the above behavior standards will result in disciplinary action, which may include parent notification, 3. Campers are part of a larger community. All campers fees to repair damaged property, loss of privileges and/or will abide by all camp rules for participation and will expulsion from camp. If a camper is sent home for violation not vandalize, graffiti, damage or destroy camp proper- of these standards, no refund of tuition will be made. ty. All costs to repair any damage, including graffiti, will be incurred by the camper’s family.

15 LIVING IN A COMMUNITY (CONT’D)

COMMUNITY AGREEMENT ON BULLYING • Support others who have been, or are subjected to, We, the campers and staff at Camp Chi, agree to create a bullying. caring and safe community (kehillah) where all campers • Talk to counselors, village leaders or other staff and staff demonstratekavod (respect) and chesed (kindness). members about concerns and issues regarding bullying.

We believe that everybody should enjoy Camp Chi equally, • As campers, we agree to tell a counselor, village leader and feel safe, secure and accepted regardless of color, race, or other staff member if we see someone being bullied. gender, popularity, athletic ability, religion, intelligence, • As staff, we agree to investigate and confront bullying physical appearance, nationality, or any other group to behavior every time we become aware of it. We will which someone might belong. make an effort to be visible and alert in places and during times where bullying is more likely to occur. We agree to do everything we can to prevent bullying at We will do our best to ensure an atmosphere where Camp Chi. Bullying is aggressive behavior that involves campers feel safe reporting incidents of bullying and a power imbalance. The behavior is repeated, or has the confident they will be dealt with and not ignored. potential to be repeated, over time. Bullying is harmful to individuals and the community. • Every person acknowledges that whether they are being a bully or see someone being bullied, if they don’t report Bullying includes actions such as attacking someone or stop the bullying, they are participating in bullying. physically or verbally, making threats, spreading rumors, taking someone’s property, publicly embarrassing someone, teasing, name calling, and excluding someone from a group.

We, the campers and staff at Camp Chi, agree to: • Treat others with respect and kindness while valuing individual differences and appreciating what makes each of us unique. • Create a caring environment where everyone feels safe and included. • Respect others personal space and desire for privacy, including when they are sleeping, changing clothes and taking showers. • Refuse to participate, or be a bystander, in any form of bullying.

16 COMMUNITY CARE At Camp Chi, campers and staff form friendships and We have a team of dedicated staff in place to make sure establish lifelong bonds with one another. We know this campers are getting the care they need. In addition to the happens during meals, at song sessions, while singing Health Center staff, who focus on the physical health of around a campfire and throughout every moment of the the campers, we have a dedicated team who focus on the day. The building of social relationships is a fundamental mental and social-emotional health of our campers and part of Camp Chi and holds significant impact and staff. This team includes our community care supervisor, meaning to the entire camp community. How we help inclusion coordinator, social workers, and camper care create an environment that allows everyone thrive coordinator, who work with each village leader to review socially is a piece of the legendary Camp Chi Magic, that any concerns and implements systems with them and the we call Community Care. counselors.

Community Care is made up of both care for our campers We are committed to creating an inclusive community and staff and we define as follows: where every camper can be successful. Through community care, we provide extra support when needed, Camper Care is the actions and behaviors that we take to to ensure just that. It may be an occasional visit to the chill ensure the physical safety, emotional stability and social zone, a one-on-one support counselor*, a visual schedule, a well-being of our campers. check-in with one of our professional staff, or something Staff Care is the actions and behaviors that we take to else altogether, but we are committed to implementing ensure the physical safety, emotional stability and social any and all of our tools to help ensure each camper is well-being of our staff. We understand that in order to successful at camp. meet the needs of our campers, our staff must be well taken care of. *One-on-one counselors are provided through our partnership with Keshet. Campers who require a one-on- At times it may seem like the food service team, Health one counselor must register through Keshet to ensure we Center staff, cabin counselors and specialists are all are prepared to help them be successful at camp. working independently to create the best environment for campers. But in actuality, through a variety of methods You can read more about our vision for creating an and coordination, everything comes together to form a inclusive community on our website. cohesive system. STRUCTURE OF CAMP

The structure of camp allows campers to have a tight-knit CABIN community in a large-camp setting. A cabin is typically made up of 10-12 campers and 4 staff. VILLAGE* Typically, 2 of the staff are counselors and the other two are specialists who work in one of the specialty areas during A camper’s village is their whole family. The cabin is like the day but spend their off hours and evenings with the their immediate family and the rest of the village are the cabin. Each cabin has wooden bunk beds and each camper extended relatives. Villages are designated by the camper’s is assigned 3 shelves near their bed. grade in the fall after camp. There are different physical setups of villages, but each one has a large light that turns BATHROOMS on at dusk and remains on overnight. Each village has Bathrooms are not located inside any of our cabins; they what is called a village leader, a supervisory staff member are just a short walk through the village. While this may who oversees the programming, manages the counselors, seem like a hassle, this means our campers do not have to and ensures each camper’s well-being. Our full-time staff clean the bathrooms. Instead, the bathrooms are cleaned supervise and work with the village leaders. by our janitorial staff multiple times a day. All bathrooms *Unsure of what village your camper is in? Refer to the grade/ have private showers and toilets. village chart on page 3.

17 DAILY SCHEDULE

This summer our schedule will look different, as cabins CABIN TIME will do all activities together during the pod period. We This is an activity that the whole cabin and counselors go will provide choice whenever possible. A sample schedule to together to enjoy. for the pod period is below in GREEN. Once we are out of the pod period, we will revert to a more traditional EVENING PROGRAM schedule as shown in ORANGE as detailed below. Evening programs happen after dinner and are either Camp Chi is a specialty-based camp, meaning the with your living cohort, entire village programs, or all daily schedule is built around choice-based activities, or camp programs (camp play, etc.). Counselors and village specialties. Campers can choose what they want to do, leaders plan and run the cohort and village evening while enjoying activities with their friends and meeting programs, which can vary from things like lip sync battles new people as well. All of our activities are what we call to paint twister to dodge ball. The village staff take pride “Challenge by Choice,” meaning no one will be forced to in creating programs that are tailored to their campers’ participate in an activity, but we find when campers step interests and skills. out of their comfort zone, they are able to achieve more. SWIMMING The schedule varies by age group, allowing older campers a later breakfast and bedtime, as well as more choice in All villages have an assigned time in the pool or lake their activities. each day. Everyone at camp, staff included, must complete the swim test before they can go in any of the pools or SPECIALTIES lakes. The test involves swimming one lap of the pool and These are the activities campers sign up for. Specialties treading water for one minute. Individuals who cannot do feature a healthy blend of play and competition. While we this are asked to stay in the shallow end and may retest at encourage campers to try new things, we also allow them any time. Please note that regardless of swim test, everyone to switch their specialty after trying it once. who goes into or onto the lake must wear a life jacket.

SAMPLE SCHEDULE SAMPLE SCHEDULE POD PERIOD MORNING MORNING 7:45am Wake Up 8:15am Breakfast 7:30am Wake Up 9:00am Cabin Clean-Up 8:00am Breakfast 9:45am Cabin Time Activity 9:00am Nikayon (CabinClean-Up) 11:00am Specialty 1 Activity 9:45am Cabin Time 11:00am Cabin Time AFTERNOON AFTERNOON 12:15pm Lunch 1:15pm Rest Hour 12:15pm Lunch 2:30pm Specialty 2 Activity 1:30pm Pool 3:45pm Swim 2:30pm Rest Hour 3:45pm Cabin Time EVENING EVENING 5:30pm Dinner 6:30pm Specialty 3 Activity 5:30pm Dinner 7:45pm Evening Program 6:30pm Cabin Time 8:45pm Snack 7:45pm Evening Program 9:00pm Shower 8:45pm Snack 9:30pm Lights Out 9:00pm Shower 9:30pm Lights Out Each village has it’s own schedule with Each village has it’s own schedule with older campers staying up later and sleeping older campers staying up later and sleeping later. later.

18 MEET THE STAFF

There are two big groups of people who make camp COUNSELORS happen each year- our campers and our staff. Each Each cabin has at least 2 counselors. The counselors are summer we employ nearly 400 people to ensure camp is with the campers all day, every day, except during specialty, safe, successful, fun, and unforgettable. These staff come when they are often planning programs and in staff from all over the world and many were campers at Chi meetings. Almost all of our counselors were campers at themselves. All of our staff go through extensive training in Camp Chi themselves, and most have gone through the their roles, Camp Chi procedures, and child development. Staff in Training (SIT) program. The staff can be broken down into a few categories: FULL TIME TEAM We are proud to offer one-on-one counselors* to provide extra support for campers who need it. These one-on-one With over 90 years of experience, the Full-Time team of counselors live in the cabin and are with the cabin, just like camp works year-round to plan for the summer. The full- the main cabin counselors. time team is responsible for all operations of camp from hiring and training staff to camper care to transportation, SPECIALISTS food service, laundry, and everything in between. Specialists work in each specialty area (outdoor cooking, waterski, etc.), running specialties and cabin times. These To meet our full-time team, visit https://campchi. highly specialized staff are experts in what they do and jccchicago.org/who-we-are/our-staff/ are assigned to a cabin when they are not working in their area. Supervisory Staff SUPPORT STAFF The supervisory staff receive additional training, and are each responsible for running a certain age group or area of It takes an army to prepare meals and keep camp clean, camp. Each supervisory staff member is directly supervised and we have an amazing dedicated group of staff who do by one of the full-time staff. just that. Whether it is cleaning a bath house, repairing a screen, cooking up the delicious grilled cheese, or scooping Village Leaders ice cream, these staff work all hours to make sure our Each village age group has at least one village leader campers are fed, the facilities are clean, and camp is ready. responsible for supervising the counselors, ensuring the village programs are of high quality, running each meal AND SO MUCH MORE! in the dining hall, and making sure each camper in the In addition to these main groups, we have many other village is having a great summer. The village leader is also staff (Health Center, drivers, office, program team, etc.), the main link to families over the summer, both by phone who work tirelessly to make camp successful. Every staff and email. member, from driver to security to head chef and counselor, Area Leaders is essential to delivering the high-quality camp experience Like a village leader, the area leader runs each specialty area we promise our campers and families. of camp (pool, horseback riding, etc.). While supervising the specialists in their area, they are responsible for developing *One-on-one counselors are provided through our partnership and implementing the curriculum in their programming. with Keshet. Campers who require a one-on-one counselor must The area leaders work with their specialists to come up register through Keshet to ensure we are prepared to help them be with great programming both in specialties and cabin successful at camp. times, while also living in a village to provide additional supervision when not in their area.

19 JEWISH LIFE AT CAMP CHI

Camp Chi is a Jewish overnight camp, affiliated with JCC • Singing the Israeli National Association of North America. When you make the choice Anthem (Hatikvah) every day to send your campers to us, you understand we live by • Formal Israel education Jewish values, engage in Jewish rituals and explore activities, programs and topics from a Jewish world view. • Cultural exchange with Israeli campers and staff Camp Chi has three core values: kavod (respect), chesed • Learning Hebrew (kindness) and kehillah (community). These values are the basis of everything we do from programming to Camper Care and making cabin groups. We infuse these values, BAR/BAT MITZVAH TUTORING and more, into the daily life at Chi and that is what makes Camp Chi, not just a summer home, but a Jewish home for Camp Chi can arrange for tutors to life. call and/or video chat their students to maintain regular tutoring. This service Throughout the summer we introduce various elements is available for a nominal fee. of Judaism to our campers beyond Jewish Values Programming. Some of the ways we engage our camp family include:

• Shabbat (Friday night) and Havdalah (Saturday night) Services • Having an alternate schedule with more restful activities on Shabbat (Saturday) • Learning and reciting blessings before (ha-motzi) and after the meals (birkat hamazon) • Eating in a Kosher style environment (not mixing dairy and meat meals) SECURITY & SAFETY

Keeping our camp community safe and secure is a top At the start of every cabin time activity and the first day priority for us. We employ a variety of safety measures of each specialty, our staff review the proper way to use to keep camp safe, including having every staff member all equipment, rules and expectations in that area, and always wear a bar-coded ID, having one entrance/exit to answer any questions. We require campers doing certain camp that is constantly staffed, and having every visitor activities to dress accordingly, (long pants and closed-toe and vendor sign in and out. We regularly review our shoes at horseback riding, etc.), to keep them safe. If a security protocols with local and state law enforcement, camper comes to an activity unprepared, they will be sent as well as experts in the field. Local law enforcement visit back to change if time allows. If not, they will not be able to camp throughout the summer to familiarize themselves participate in the activity that day. with camp and check in with the full-time staff. During training and throughout the summer, we emphasize to staff and campers that if they see someone or something that seems off or that does not belong, to tell someone immediately. We have plans, procedures, and protocols in place for all types of emergency situations, however we are not able to release them, as advised by law enforcement.

20 FOOD SERVICE

We partner with WOLFoods, a professional food service present, or similar language. company, to provide healthy and delicious meals each day. Camp Chi operates a kosher kitchen, although there is not Although serious efforts are being made, Camp Chi cannot a mashgiach (kashrut supervisor) on site. All of our food is guarantee an entirely nut free facility, as nut products and hechschered (certified as kosher), except the hard cheeses. gluten are not always clearly labeled. This year all of our meals will be served cafeteria style, which will allow us to optimize choice without sacrificing Our professional food service staff is available for safety. At all lunches and dinners, we offer a salad consultation regarding food allergies starting in June. bar, plain pasta, and soy nut butter, jelly and bread. At We will work together to provide healthy and safe breakfasts, we offer a variety of cereals, fresh fruit, yogurt, options for your campers to confidently enjoy wholesome and oatmeal. There is always whole fruit (apples, oranges, meals at camp. etc.) available and we serve both an afternoon and evening PICKY EATERS snack as well. Part of coming to camp is trying new things and stepping FOOD ALLERGIES outside your comfort zone. That goes for food as well, Camp Chi can accommodate certain food allergies and and we encourage campers to always try new foods. That dietary restrictions. Please include any food allergies or being said, we never want anyone to go hungry and do our special dietary needs on your camper forms. This will best to accommodate campers with more specific palates. give our Health Center and Kitchen Staff adequate time It is very important that you tell us about your camper’s to prepare. We employ a specialized chef, whose job is it dietary preferences when filling out your camper forms. If to make safe and delicious meals for campers who cannot your camper does not find something to eat, they should eat the regular meal due to dietary restrictions or allergies. approach their counselor or village leader who will work Additionally, there is a large allergy board in the main with the food service staff to find an option for them. dining hall that visually lets campers see the food in the meal and the common allergens present. Camp Chi’s Kitchen regularly stocks Lactaid, soy milk KID-FRIENDLY, NUTRITIOUS MEALS and rice milk. These products are available whenever we serve milk in the Dining Hall. Additionally, dairy-free meals are available for campers with known and BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER previously communicated dairy allergies. Egg Sandwiches Tacos Chicken Stir Fry We can accommodate the special diets associated with Waffles Grilled Chicken Spaghetti & Celiac Disease. Campers needing a gluten-free diet will French Toast Sandwiches receive menu options that closely mirror what is being Meatballs Pancakes Baked Ziti served during a particular meal. To help with this effort, Roast Chicken Bagels & Cream Mac & Cheese families of campers needing gluten-free diets are asked to Chicken Tenders contact the camp office and at times provide certain food Cheese Quesadillas items for their camper to supplement the gluten-free foods Deli Buffet: Deli Pizza stocked in the Camp Kitchen. Daily Meats, Veggies, Grilled Cheese Hummus & Pita PEANUT & TREE NUT ALLERGIES Yogurt & Tomato Soup Hamburgers & Fresh Fruit Food allergies, particularly nut allergies, are a growing Picnic Buffet: Hot Dogs concern across America. To help protect the health of Assorted Cereal Tuna, Egg & Chicken & Steak campers and staff, we do not use peanuts, tree nuts or Oatmeal Pasta Salads Fajitas nut oils in the preparation of food in our Dining Hall or at outdoor cooking. Although Camp Chi does not serve peanut butter, a delicious soy alternative is available. We Soy butter & jelly, fresh fruit, pasta and salad bar are will not serve items where the label indicates that the food available at all lunches and dinners. contains peanuts or tree nuts, but we may serve packaged items that state that a product has been produced in a factory or on machinery where nuts may have been

21 CANTEEN

The Camp Chi Canteen is a full-service camp store. CANTEEN REFUNDS Campers visit the Canteen approximately 3 times each Any remaining balance in your child’s canteen account week depending on their age. Each camper has a canteen will be refunded to you after the end of the camp season. If account that is established upon camp registration. less than $10 remains in an account, the money will be Campers withdraw from this account to pay for Canteen automatically donated to the Camp Chi’s scholarship fund. items, including snacks, Chi Gear (sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats, etc.), games and necessity items (stamps, stationery, shampoo, etc.). Upon each visit to the canteen, campers are limited to two consumable items (plus a bottle of water). The canteen staff closely monitors each camper’s account and will contact you if your child’s account is running low. Family members can also order items online or over the phone for their camper(s).

LAUNDRY

During each four-week session, campers will have their dirty masks in, so they will be washed and dried with the laundry cleaned three times. For campers in the Mini camper’s clothing. The minimal charge for this laundry Sessions, their laundry will be done one time. And for bag and mesh bag will be charged to the camper’s canteen those in the three-week program, laundry will be done account. To further avoid missing items, it is imperative twice. A professional laundry service washes, dries and that ALL clothing be marked with camper’s FIRST and folds the contents of each camper’s clearly marked laundry LAST NAME. bag and returns clothes a few days later. Camp Chi is not responsible for lost clothing or other Each camper will receive a color-coded Camp Chi articles. Please note there is no laundry service during Try laundry bag to use each summer. This summer, we are Chi. also providing a small mesh bag campers will put their

22 OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

BIRTHDAYS If your child is not used to spending the night away from Having a birthday at camp is something a camper (or home, make sure to schedule some sleepovers with friends staff member) will never forget, and will make those born or relatives prior to camp. These small experiences can not during camp jealous. It’s an old Camp Chi tradition make a big difference for kids while adjusting to camp life. to celebrate each camper’s birthday with cupcakes At camp, we are homesickness experts and will do (provided by camp), singing, and a cabin party. If you everything we can to help your camper adjust to camp and would like to call your camper on their birthday, please overcome homesickness. As no two campers are the same, do so by arranging a time in advance with the camp office there is no one way to help a camper with at 847.763.3551. Please do not send money for a special homesickness and will employ a variety of strategies to party. If you would like to do something special for the help your camper adjust. If you anticipate your camper cabin, contact the Chi Canteen at 847.763.3677. Please do struggling with homesickness, call camp beforehand at not expect phone calls from campers on family members’ 847.763.3551 to help us strategize and put a plan in place to birthdays. help your camper be successful. BEDWETTING MAY OPEN HOUSE & SUMMER TOURS It is not uncommon for campers of all ages to struggle at While your camper is at camp, we do not allow families to times with staying dry overnight. Whether it is a regular visit. We find this to be a big disruption to the routine of thing or just happens occasionally, we are prepared to camp, and can have negative effects both on your campers, help your camper be successful at camp. There are many and other campers in camp who do not get visitors. strategies campers have used at camp to manage Instead, we have a Summer Open House on May 30, 2021, bedwetting, ranging from special nighttime where all current families and those considering Camp undergarments to vibrating alarm clocks. As no two Chi can visit, take a guided tour of camp, meet some of the campers’ situations are the same, we encourage you to call staff, enjoy a Camp Chi snack, visit the canteen, and speak our office at 847.763.3551 before the summer to review a with the full-time staff. Find full details and RSVP on our plan for success for your camper. We promise you and your website: http://www.campchi.com/SummerOpenHouse camper that we will use discretion when dealing with this and any other personal issues. HOME SICKNESS Home sickness among campers is very common regardless of their age or experience being away from home. Although the specific causes of homesickness differ by camper, there are things you can do prior to them leaving to help prepare and prevent homesickness. Make sure to talk about camp with your camper. These positive conversations help build excitement and anticipation. You can visit the Chi website together, watch Chi videos, go shopping for camp gear and label clothes together. Talk about all the great things they will be able to do at camp and about all the new friends they will make. Include a quick mention about homesickness. Reassure your camper that missing home is normal. We suggest discussing strategies on how to cope with these feelings. Encourage your camper to talk with counselors or other staff if they feel sad or upset.

23 IMPORTANT CAMP CHI POLICIES

When registering for camp, every family agrees to JCC EARLY DEPARTURES Chicago/JCC Camp Chi’s terms and conditions which Once a program begins, if the camper has to leave for can be found online at www.campchi.com/policies. To any reason, including but not limited to behavior, injury, highlight some of the most important ones: illness, or personal reasons, no refunds or credits will be PAYMENT POLICY given. For your convenience, JCC Chicago accepts cash, checks, PHOTO POLICY American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and JCC Chicago/Camp Chi may videotape or photograph electronic bank draft. Registrations are not complete until participants enrolled in programs, classes, and events or program fees or deposits are made. Prior to processing while enjoying JCC Chicago/Camp Chi facilities. These registration for any JCC Chicago activity, accounts are photographs are for JCC Chicago/Camp Chi publications, reviewed for outstanding balances. Registration cannot be flyers, publicity efforts, brochures, web use, other electronic processed until past-due balances are reconciled. communications or video usage. All photos and videos FINAL PAYMENTS are for JCC Chicago/Camp Chi use and become the sole property of JCC Chicago/Camp Chi. Please contact the All camp fees must be paid in full by April 15. director of your program for photographic exclusions for DEPOSITS your child. A $500 non-refundable deposit is due for each session CODE OF CONDUCT at the time of registration. For the Pacific Northwest JCC Camp Chi reserves the right to cancel the enrollment, Adventure Trip (PNW,) a $1000 deposit is due at the time of without providing a refund of fees, of an individual for registration of which $500 is refundable until January 1. reasons not limited to the following: not observing rules Families applying for fee assistance provide a deposit outlined in our camper contract, community agreement on of $150 at the time of registration. If fee assistance is not bullying, website, program guide or parent handbook. awarded or declined, the deposit is refundable less a $25 processing fee. PROGRAM PROTECTOR INSURANCE CANCELLATIONS, REFUNDS AND CHANGE FEES We know that camp is a significant expense, and we want to help you protect your investment. Similar to trip Prior to April 15, camp fees are refundable minus the $500 insurance, Program Protector camp insurance allows you deposit as explained above. Cancellations that occur after to get some or all of your money back should you need to April 15, will be assessed half of the camp fee. Once a cancel or your child’s camp experience is interrupted for program begins, no refunds will be granted for cancellations. one of the covered reasons.

Per our policies, we do not refund if you decide to cancel For Try Chi, payment is due in full at time of registration your enrollment or a need arises to depart early from and is fully refundable until June 1. After June 1, Try Chi camp. Program Protector camp insurance provides fees are not refundable. opportunities to get some or all of the camp fees back for one of the covered reasons. After registering, any changes to sessions enrolled that result in decreasing the length of time at camp will be This service is optional, but we encourage all our Camp assessed a $25 processing fee. Adding additional sessions Chi families take advantage of this offering. after registration or extending length of stay will not incur this fee. More details can be found online at campchi.org.

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