Ta’am Ramah – A Taste of Ramah

We are excited to announce our first-ever Ta’am Ramah (Taste of Ramah) program for 1st and 2nd grade campers currently registered for Session B for Kayitz 2025.  The goal of Ta’am Ramah is to introduce campers to the excitement and ruach (spirit) of our overnight camp in Palmer, MA. This three-day experience allows campers to travel with their trusted Day Camp peers and staff to Palmer for the first time. It’s an opportunity to feel the magical energy of camp 24/7 and to experience the best that Ramah has to offer.  We’re super excited to launch this special new program for our campers!

This program is NOT first come, first served. Please refer to the detailed FAQs below for additional information.

TA’AM RAMAH FAQ’S:

What are the basic details of the trip? (Dates, Cost, Travel Logistics)   

• Dates: Tuesday, July 8 – Thursday, July 10, 2025 (during Session B of Ramah Day Camp Greater DC).
• Eligibility: Campers must be registered for Session B at the Day Camp to apply for Ta’am Ramah.
• Cost: $325 (which covers most of the flight expense).  All other expensese related to the Ta’am Ramah experience will be covered by Ramah New England.  The fee is non-refundable, and we do not offer financial aid for this experience.
• Flight Logistics: The group will depart from Washington Reagan on Tuesday morning, July 8, and will return on Thursday evening, July 10. Families are responsible for getting their child to and from Washington Reagan Airport. We will provide a bus to transport campers between Bradley Airport and Camp Ramah New England in Palmer, MA.

Where will my child sleep? 

Our entire group (staff and campers) will be sleeping in a dedicated communal space (the Bet Am Bet/Cafe Ramah for those who know camp). Beds will be provided, along with linens and towels. Campers will be allowed to keep their stuff in the space throughout the duration of the program. There will be showers and toilets conveniently located by the sleeping area.

What do I need to pack? 

We will send out a full packing list for all registered families as we get closer to the trip. That said, please remember that campers will need to be responsible for carrying their own luggage (camp is a great way to learn independence). This means they will be limited to one suitcase and a small backpack.  Essentials will include clothing for three days, a bathing suit, toiletries, and any comfort item they need to fall asleep. Towels and linens will be provided.

Will the flight be chaperoned? Who will take care of my child during the trip? 

Yes, the flight will be chaperoned by members of our Day Camp staff. We will have 4-5 staff members, including one senior team staff member, traveling with the group. Upon arrival in Palmer, additional Palmer staff, including specialists, Rashei Edah, and Camp Senior Staff members will be there to welcome and care for the campers.

What will the daily activities and schedule be like? 

Campers will enjoy a variety of activities that highlight the best of our overnight camp experience. Activities will likely include:

• Tefilot (morning prayers) with the Kochavim edah (the youngest age group at camp).
• Meals in the Chadar Ochel (dining hall) with three meals a day plus snacks.
• Swimming in the Agam (lake) and using the Agam water park.
• Omanut (art) with many fabulous options.
• Time with our farm animals.
• Peulot Erev (evening activities) led by Palmer staff.
• Hargaah (bedtime ritual) to end the day.

When will I know if my child has been accepted into Ta’am Ramah? What are the next steps? 

• Application Deadline: January 15, 2025.
• Acceptance Notification: We aim to notify families by February 18, 2025. If the process takes longer than expected, we will keep families updated.
• Next Steps: Once accepted, families will have two weeks to complete and send back the permission form and submit the $325 fee (charged to your Camp Minder account).

What happens if there are more applicants than available space? 

If we receive more applications from eligible campers than spots available, we may conduct a lottery or create a waitlist.

How will I be notified if we do not think your child is ready for the program? 

If we believe your child might not be ready for Ta’am Ramah, a staff member will reach out to discuss your application. This is not a rejection —rather, it means that we feel your child may benefit from waiting another year to ensure a positive and successful experience. Our goal is to create a great experience for all campers, and sometimes waiting a year is the best option.

Questions?

If you have additional questions about this experience, please contact Rabbi Jill Levy, RDC Director.