What We Do
Shalom Institute enriches Jewish life, ensures the Jewish future, and makes the world a better place. Its programs facilitate transformative experiences grounded in Jewish values.
Our programs and services engage more than 1,600 campers and summer staff who attend Camp JCA Shalom overnight and day camps and Camp Gesher for Russian-speaking families, the only camp of its kind on the west coast. In addition to the overnight and day camps, Shalom Institute’s signature programs include Shemesh Farms – a social enterprise and employment initiative providing purpose, community, and meaning to 60 adults with diverse abilities and special needs and Sherut L’Olam – a yearlong values-based leadership program for 40 teens that is informed and inspired by Jewish tradition and ethics. Sherut L’Olam provides a space for the teens to explore social and environmental issues, give value to their voices and empower them to engage with the world.
Thousands more youth and adults, representing the vibrant tapestry of Jewish life, participate in Shalom Institute’s year-round Jewish educational, environmental, social justice, and retreat experiences each year. These experiences connect people of all ages to community, Judaism, self-discovery, fun, nature, friendship and more.
Shalom Institute also partners with schools and community organizations for religious and day school retreats, family camps, nature education, holiday educational celebrations, leadership training, adult programs, family fun days, service projects, and social justice programs.
