Loading…
Cornerstone 2026 has ended
arrow_back View All Dates
Tuesday, May 19
 

12:00pm EDT

Crafting for a Cause: Bringing Service to Camp
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will craft bookmarks and pack school kits for local students while diving into Repair the World’s Jewish service learning cycle. Leave with practical tools and creative ideas to create powerful service experiences that you can weave into camp.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Herrmann

Jessica Herrmann

Guest, she/her
Jessica serves on Repair the World's Field Activation Team, working closely with the Jewish Service Alliance. She is committed to empowering her generation to connect with Judaism through service, building meaningful partnerships across diverse communities, and creating transformative... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

Faster, Higher, Stronger: Elevating Your All-Camp Sports Day
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will discuss, dissect, and define the best practices of all-camp sports activities. Whether you call it Maccabiah or Yom Sport, we will figure out how to elevate these moments for your camp. In a year with the olympics and World Cup, now is the time to seize the moment!
Speakers
avatar for Joel Swedlove

Joel Swedlove

Educator, he/him
Joel Swedlove is a product of the Jewish Summer Camp. His parents met at UAHC Camp Swig and he believes deeply in the importance of summer camp to the American Jewish community. Joel has coached basketball for both boys and girls at the middle and high school levels with multiple... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

From Broken to Beautiful: Creating "Whole-iness" in Imperfection
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will explore the Japanese art of kintsugi by repairing broken pottery while emphasizing the beauty in its brokenness. We will reflect on how we can create internal wholeness and find holiness even during our most challenging moments.
Speakers
avatar for Noga Melnick

Noga Melnick

Cornerstone Alumni Board (CAB), she/her
Noga Melnick is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in working with families who have experienced trauma. Noga earned her Master’s in Social Work from the Brown School at Washington University in St. Louis and she currently works as a therapist for college students... Read More →
avatar for PJ Litvack

PJ Litvack

Cornerstone Alumni Board (CAB), he/him
PJ Litvack worked at Camp Shalom and Camp Solelim, taking on meaningful roles in both communities. He is serving on the Cornerstone Alumni Board for his third year, bringing experience and dedication to the team. PJ also loves Cornerstone—a lot—and it continues to be one of his... Read More →
avatar for Shayna Lebowitz

Shayna Lebowitz

Cornerstone Alumni Board (CAB), she/her
Shayna Lebowitz is an enthusiastic young professional with a passion for Jewish education, youth development, and of course camp! Her flame was first lit at Camp Laurelwood, where she spent the past fourteen summers— first as a camper, and more recently as prayer leader, division... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

Gratitude + Kindness = Holiness
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will look for the holiness hidden in moments of gratitude and acts of chesed (kindness) using texts, meditation, and journaling.
Speakers
avatar for Dubbs Weinblatt

Dubbs Weinblatt

Educator, they/them
Dubbs Weinblatt is a nonbinary, trans, sober educator, facilitator, speaker, storyteller, podcaster, producer, consultant and the Founder/CEO of Thank You For Coming Out -- a podcast and DEIB Storytelling company. They're also the Social Justice Manager at SAJ; a progressive synagogue... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

Jewish Environmentalism at Camp
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will learn how Judaism and environmental stewardship are interconnected and explore the importance of protecting the land that we use for our summer camps.
Speakers
avatar for Jared Richie

Jared Richie

Guest, he/him
Jared Richie is the Adamah on Campus National Coordinator, where he supports Jewish college students in bringing Jewish and environmental programming to their college campuses. He is a proud alum and serves on the Board of Directors for Habonim Dror Camp Moshava in Street, Maryland... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

Making Space for Hebrew at Camp
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will explore how Hebrew can naturally fit into camp life, no matter your level, and how shared ownership with Hebrew-speaking staff and shlichim, along with your own choices and enthusiasm, can turn small moments into powerful connections for your campers and fellow staff.
Speakers
avatar for Sharon Schoenfeld

Sharon Schoenfeld

Guest, she/her
Sharon Schoenfeld is an informal educator and language-learning advocate whose work focuses on the intersection of experiential and informal learning environments, and Hebrew language learning and engagement. Since 2019, she has served as the National Director of Kayitz Kef/Hebrew... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

Neurodiversity at Camp
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will learn how to have the best summer ever by creating strong connections with each camper and recognizing each one's unique gifts and challenges.
Speakers
avatar for Daniel Abramson

Daniel Abramson

Educator, he/him
Long before he earned a BFA from OCAD University, a BEd from York University, and an MEd from OISE at the University of Toronto, Daniel Abramson was just a curious kid with an urge to take things apart to figure out how they worked. His passion for inquiry, curiousity and discovery... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

No Wrong Turns: Walking the Labyrinth
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will meditate on the the truth that life is perfect exactly as it, via a walking meditation, in the company of angels, through a home-spun labyrinth.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Shaw

Melissa Shaw

Educator, she/they
Melissa Shaw is a facilitator, organizer and educator who offers a unique consultancy based in social justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, social emotional learning and the arts. She currently serves as the Director of Social Action and Courageous Conversations for Lab/Shul in... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

Stick Dough: A Fun & Delicious Activity Around a Campfire
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will learn to make safe fires, to make simple dough, to wittle a stick, and to make stick dough!
Speakers
avatar for Josh Lake

Josh Lake

Educator, he/him
Josh Lake received a Master's degree in Jewish Education from The Jewish Theological Seminary. He is the founder and principal operator of Outdoor Jewish Adventures, a company whose goal is to explore Creation and the role Jews play as partners in Creation. Josh works with teachers... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

The Art of Sacred Rest at Camp
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will explore the concept of rest and why it looks different for each of us. Using a framework that highlights the seven types of rest humans need to thrive, we'll learn to identify the kinds of rest, and the tools, that can help both you and your campers feel more restored throughout the summer.
Speakers
avatar for Jodie Goldberg

Jodie Goldberg

Founder and Principal, Fleurish Consulting Inc.
Jodie Goldberg is the Founder and Principal of Fleurish Consulting, a practice dedicated to helping individuals and organizations design gatherings that cultivate connection and deepen belonging between people. As a seasoned Jewish professional, Jodie's career features roles such... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

Tzitzit Making: Learn To Tie Your Own Set, Strings Attached!
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will learn how to tie your own set of traditional tzitzit (ritual fringes on 4 cornered garments).
Speakers
avatar for Meir Balofsky

Meir Balofsky

Educator, he/him
Meir Balofsky has spent more summers at Camp Moshava Canada than most people. That might sound remarkable, but when you consider the world population is like 8 billion, it suddenly looks less impressive. A master of camp ruach, surprise skits, and perfectly timed dad jokes, Meir has... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

12:00pm EDT

Whole E Eyes: Listening Beyond Language
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
In this session, we will engage in relational skill building practices to tune our minds to the deeper narratives our campers, colleagues, and friends are communicating beyond the languages we can see, hear, or feel and behind the screens and filters between us. We will be learning to perceive the holy songs of others.
Speakers
avatar for Josh Friedman

Josh Friedman

Educator, he/him
Josh is a professor of psychology at Manhattan University studying how people help each other learn. In 15 summers at URJ Greene Family Camp, Josh worked with almost every age group, spending the bulk of his time on challenge courses, working with teens, and training CITs. Before... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm EDT
TBA

3:00pm EDT

It Doesn’t Happen by Accident: Building Trust-Rich Camp Communities
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
Social capital is the heartbeat of a thriving camp community—it’s the trust, relationships, and shared values that allow people from different backgrounds to live, work, and grow together. In this interactive session, participants will gain practical, relational tools to intentionally strengthen connection and trust among staff and campers. We will explore strategies for fostering mutual understanding, empathy, and shared responsibility, helping build a camp culture where people feel seen, supported, and invested in one another. Walk away with actionable ideas to create a summer experience rooted in collective care—one that strengthens your community long after the session ends.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Melissa Carter

Dr. Melissa Carter

Educator, she/her
Melissa Carter, EdD, serves as the Sr. Director of Global Spiritual Life at NYU, the head of Mindfulness Education and Programming, an assistant professor at the Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, and an adjunct professor at the Silver School of Social Work. She holds... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
TBA

3:00pm EDT

Living Between Hope and Reality: Between Hatikvah v’Hamatzav
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
In this session, we will learn how to hold multiple perspectives, argue with integrity, and live as a people bound by responsibility.
Speakers
avatar for Shalom Orzach

Shalom Orzach

Author and Educator
Shalom is a senior educational consultant and an acclaimed public speaker on contemporary Israel who brings extensive knowledge, humor and passion. He regularly writes on Israel and Jewish education in The Times of Israel and eJewishPhilanthropy. For the anniversary of October 7th... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
TBA

3:00pm EDT

Race, Equity, and Inclusion at Camp
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
In this session, we will explore issues of Race, Equity, and Inclusion at camp and together create powerful strategies to bring these values to life at camp for staff.
Speakers
avatar for Tony J. Westbrook, Jr.

Tony J. Westbrook, Jr.

Educator, he/him
Tony J. Westbrook, Jr. is a Jewish educator, DEI practitioner, and rabbinical student at the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, currently serving as the Rabbinic Intern at Congregation Adath Israel. An award-winning Jewish educator, he creates accessible and joyful Jewish learning... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
TBA

3:00pm EDT

Stronger Together: The Power of Trust in Teams
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
In this session, we will explore the role of trust and why it is a necessary foundation for a successful team. Together, we'll work through practical strategies and hands-on exercises that you can take back with you to strengthen your team(s) this summer. As a team leader, modeling trust is key; when trust is shown, it is almost always reciprocated.
Speakers
avatar for Seth Braunstein

Seth Braunstein

Advisor, he/him
Rabbi Seth Braunstein has a passion for informal Jewish education. He grew up going to Jewish summer camp and has traveled extensively working for many Jewish communities around the world. Seth directed the Szarvas Fellowship Program for 17 years, bringing diverse groups of high school... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
TBA

3:00pm EDT

Supervising Staff with Intention
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
In this session, we will explore a clear model that helps camp supervisors gain the confidence and skills needed to build relationships, role model, and offer feedback in ways that help their staff grow.
Speakers
avatar for Brett Gurwitz

Brett Gurwitz

Advisor, he/him
Brett Gurwitz is a trainer, coach, and consultant with over twenty years of leadership, youth development and team building experience. Brett believes in the power of relationships and that we learn and perform best when we feel connected to those we are working with. He offers interactive... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
TBA

3:00pm EDT

The Sustainable Practice of Play: Holy Fun!
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
In this session, we will explore how when we, as Supervisors, develop a sustainable practice of play, our leadership supports our community's energy as well as our own, with ongoing care. And fun. Seriously.
Speakers
avatar for Becca Sykes

Becca Sykes

Advisor, she/her
Rebecca Sykes offers dynamic coaching and workshops rooted in yoga, theater, and text-study that build experience in values-based learning. Her love of experiential education comes from decades at summer camps in North America, where it's possible to build one's creativity and connection... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
TBA
 
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Filtered by Date -