B’NAI B’RITH CAMP

SERVICE AREA: Camps and Youth, Adult & Family Engagement
bbcamp.org | 503-496-7444
2022-23 FUNDING: $91,200 ($36,500 in an operations allocation and $54,700 in One Happy Camper grants)
MISSION: BB Camp provides safe, nurturing and fun experiences in a welcoming environment that inspires
individual growth and enduring Jewish identity. Youth-centered summer camps and year-round programs for all ages build communities and develop future leaders.

Since 1921, BB Camp’s core program has been an overnight summer camp on the Oregon coast. In recent years, BB Camp has expanded to include day camps across Oregon; family camps; adult camps; rentals and retreats; and youth, adult and family year-round engagement programming.

“Based in Jewish values, our agency lays the groundwork for diverse and dynamic experiential opportunities that create community and future leaders,” says Chief Executive Officer Michelle Koplan. “BB Camp is proud to be a boundless kehila (community) of different ages, denominations, backgrounds, languages and abilities.”

“In 2022, our Second Century Capital Campaign was completed, and our entire campus was rebuilt to include modern ADA-accessible buildings, including our brand new Zidell Field House,” says Koplan.

BB Camp is nationally recognized for its inclusive culture. In recent years, support and care to campers and staff has ensured camp is a safe space for those with mental, emotional and social health (MESH) needs. In 2023, BB Camp is adding two mental health/community care professionals to its year-round professional team.

Also new in 2023, BB Golfs and BB Adventures join BB Surfs as specialty tracks available for overnight campers. The camp also is constructing a Performing Arts Center to house Jewish music, Israeli dance and performing arts.

“The Jewish Federation’s commitment to One Happy Camper grants for first-time campers of Jewish overnight camp has been fundamental in ensuring access to Jewish camp for all families,” says Koplan. “As a community that prides itself on inclusion, BB Camp is beyond grateful to the Jewish Federation for making funds available to families choosing Jewish camp for their children.”

BB Camp offers a robust volunteer committee structure with more than 190 volunteers creating meaningful experiences in the arts, nature, sports, Judaism and more for camp youth. Volunteer physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and mental health professionals are also needed for summer overnight camp. To volunteer or for information, email mkoplan@bbcamp.org.

Each issue, the Jewish Review is featuring a profile of one of the 18 local beneficiary agencies of the Jewish
Federation of Greater Portland’s 2022 Annual Campaign.