On Connecting With Nature & Tikkun Olam

One central piece of Tawonga’s Mission is the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam, which means to build a partnership with nature and repair the world. Our goal is to help children to decompress from their normal urban lives and enjoy the beauty of the natural world around us. We offer a variety of activities for campers to enjoy and learn about the beautiful environment that surrounds Tawonga.

This week, each bunk went on a day hike with our experienced Wilderness Staff into the Stanislaus National Forest and into Yosemite National Park, both right at the doorstep of our property. Campers returned from their day hikes feeling proud of themselves and excited about the gorgeous settings they’d seen.

At Camp we have a vegetable garden and farm that are essential parts of our programming. In the garden, campers learn about about growing and taking care of plants, as well as eating a healthy and balanced diet. They have the opportunity to plant and harvest vegetables, cook in our outdoor kitchen and even make natural lip balms and salves. Over the course of the summer, the salads served each Shabbat will contain vegetables supplied by the garden. This week we harvested fresh kale, arugula and radishes. We are also looking forward to harvesting tomatoes, zucchini, corn, swiss chard, and parsley, as well as a variety of fresh herbs. In the farm, we have pigs, goats, chickens and bunnies for the children to learn about and interact with.

We love seeing our campers relax in and relish our beautiful setting and embrace the natural world around them – from the stars in the sky to the seedlings in the garden and everything in between!