Camp Grossman
Camp Registration is OPEN! JCC Greater Boston’s traditional Jewish day camp for kids entering Kindergarten to 10th grade, featuring lakefront swimming, sports, arts, nature, and more – including lifelong friends. Transportation available from over 30 Greater Boston communities!
At Camp Grossman, Adventures, Friendships, and Memories Await!
Situated on 75 acres in Dover’s pine-studded Hale Reservation, Camp Grossman is a mixed-gender Jewish day camp where summer days are filled with fun!
Camp is about the joy of exploring sports, art, music, and drama…the joy of exploring life outdoors…and the self-confidence that comes from making lifelong friends in a wonderful community bursting with camp spirit.
Discover why our campers go gaga for Grossman every summer!
Camp Registration Is Open!
Join us at Camp Grossman for Summer 2024!
Camp at a Glance
Make the most of your summer with eight weeks of camp, plus a special ninth week program to bridge the gap between the end of regular camp and the beginning of school. We also offer an extended day option until 6:00.
- Camp runs between June 24–August 16. Camp runs for nine weeks, split into four two-week sessions, with an optional ninth week August 19-23. At a minimum, you must register for any two-week session, and you may then register for any additional single weeks to follow your existing session.
- Regular Camp Hours: approximately 8am–4pm (depending on pick-up and drop-off location).
- Extended-Day Hours: Pick-up by 6:00pm from the Leventhal-Sidman JCC.
Ninth Week Session
Camp Grossman offers a special week-long program between the end of regular camp and the beginning of school. While the ninth week program differs significantly from the regular camp season, it offers campers of all ages the opportunity to experience Camp Grossman as a singular community, where campers and staff come together in a truly unique way.
- As our ninth week session is smaller, with fewer campers and staff, campers are assigned to new ninth-week groups.
- The entire camp runs on the same schedule — and a smaller camp makes it possible to do more camp-wide activities! We come together for lunch, swim, and camp-wide morning meetings, giving campers of different ages more opportunities to interact.
- The ninth week of camp is one hour longer each day (ending at 5pm instead of 4pm). Because of the longer day, we do not offer an extended day.
- There is no swim instruction during the ninth week, but free swim is offered twice daily.
- Bus transportation is also limited this week, with centralized bus stops available in Brookline, Cambridge, Canton, Lexington, Natick, and Newton.
Bunks
Join a diverse community of campers and make new friends! Our youngest campers are grouped together in mixed-gender bunks, while most bunks for older campers offer a choice between mixed-gender and separate-gender bunks.
We group bunks into units based on campers’ ages and upcoming grades in school, ensuring they can participate in activities that are appropriate and engaging for their developmental level. Our program offers a variety of scheduled group activities, and campers spend most of their day with those in their unit.
Staff
Our senior staff members have an average of 20 years of experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our programs. Furthermore, 75% of our counselors were former Grossman campers themselves, which is a testament to the impact we have on the lives of our participants.
We take pride in maintaining excellent counselor-to-camper ratios in each bunk, enabling our counselors to provide personalized support and guidance to every camper. This helps campers build strong relationships with their counselors, and fosters an environment where campers can grow, learn, and have fun.
Show Off Your Grossman Pride!
Each camper will receive a free Camp Grossman T-shirt at the beginning of camp. If you would like to purchase additional clothing or other branded gear, there is an online store that carries a variety of options for the whole family — check it out below!
Camp Program
At Camp Grossman, we believe that children thrive in an environment that encourages them to step out of their comfort zones and try new things. That’s why we offer a diverse and exciting array of activities that challenge and inspire campers to discover new talents and abilities — from our youngest to our oldest campers. All campers are required to enroll in at least one two-week camp session. A supportive and nurturing atmosphere combined with a two-week session ensures that every child feels empowered to tackle new challenges and develop important skills.
Both our land and water activities are led by adult activity specialists who are experts in their fields, ensuring that every camper can safely participate and have a blast. Our staff members are trained to create a fun and supportive environment that encourages campers to try new things, build confidence, and make lasting friendships.
We offer daily lakefront swim instruction, enabling campers to improve their swim skills and feel confident in the water. Whether they’re just learning or refining their strokes, our instructors help every camper make progress and feel proud of their accomplishments.
Every Friday, we come together as a community to celebrate Shabbat with an Oneg Shabbat, a special gathering that highlights the importance of tradition and togetherness. This is just one example of the small touches that make our camp experience memorable for campers. By nurturing a sense of community, tradition, and belonging, we help campers create memories that will last a lifetime.
By the end of the summer, our goal is for every camper to leave with a newfound confidence in their abilities, a sense of pride in all that they have accomplished, and lifelong friends. We believe that these experiences will stay with them forever, providing a strong foundation for future growth and success.
Activities for Every Interest
Campers take full advantage of the natural waterfront with instructional and free swim, boating, fishing, water slides, and trampolines.
Kids go beyond the ordinary with rock climbing, zip line, mountain biking, hiking, orienteering, and ropes/challenge courses.
Archery, gymnastics, baseball, basketball, kickball, gaga, football, soccer, street hockey, volleyball, softball, and batting cages.
Campers explore their creativity through music, drama, dance, photography, video production, arts & crafts, knitting, sewing, ceramics, jewelry making, and cooking.
Campers look forward to overnights, Oneg Shabbat celebrations, exciting entertainers, and our summer-long Maccabiah competition.
Jewish pride, themes, programs, and celebrations are woven through camp life. While Grossman is rooted in Jewish tradition, we welcome campers and staff of all backgrounds. We strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.
Expansive Facilities
Our extensive list of amenities includes:
- Fully-Equipped Waterfront
- Large Playing Fields and Courts
- Lodge and Unit Buildings
- Street Hockey Rink
- Batting Cage
- Ropes/Challenge Course
- Climbing Walls and Zip Line
- Playground
- Amphitheater
- Arts & Crafts/Ceramics Complex
- Mountain Biking and Hiking Trails
- Kosher Kitchen
Daily Schedule
From thrilling programs to unforgettable memories, as your child grows older, their camp experience just gets better!
Our focus on age-appropriate activities means that our younger campers get to explore a wide range of options in a well-rounded program, from arts and crafts to sports and outdoor adventures. As campers mature, we give them greater freedom to choose their activities through our elective program (Chugim). This approach allows each child to follow their own unique interests and passions, leading to a deeper sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.
Discover a day in the life by exploring our programs and sample camp schedules by age group/unit:
Kindergarten – 1st Grade (Units Carmel, Galil, Negev)
Mixed-Gender Bunks
Our youngest campers participate in a range of exciting activities — and get to take advantage of nearly every activity we offer — such as arts & crafts, boating, climbing wall, cooking, dance, gymnastics, junior archery, music, nature, sports, street hockey, basketball, drama, games, soccer, t-ball, ropes & challenge course, jewelry making, photography, and Tarboot (Jewish culture). They’ll also get to enjoy daily instructional and free swim periods as well as unstructured playtime with their unit. All campers also enjoy an Oneg celebration at the end of each week to honor Shabbat and wrap up our week.
View Sample Schedules:
To ensure a successful experience, we welcome children who are able to handle a full day of outdoor activity and who are totally independent in bathroom use. If you have any questions about your camper’s specific needs, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
2nd-3rd Grade (Moshav, Midbar and Aravah)
Combination of Mixed-Gender or Single-Gender Bunks
Moshav, Midbar and Aravah campers enjoy a full schedule of exciting camp activities, including archery, video production, sewing, mountain biking, boating, and surf biking. We add even more fun and excitement to their summer with Chugim (elective periods) three times a week.
One of the highlights of the Moshav, Midbar and Aravah experience is that at this age, we introduce our summer-long, friendly competition, Maccabiah. This Camp Grossman tradition is a fan-favorite! Maccabiah brings a range of athletic and non-athletic challenges designed to build self-esteem and encourage cooperation. Every camper earns points for their team, creating a sense of camaraderie, sportsmanship, and team spirit. Moshav, Midbar and Aravah campers will enjoy Maccabiah activities twice each week.
View Sample Schedules:
4th Grade (Golan)
Choice of Mixed-Gender or Single-Gender Bunks
Like Midbar and Aravah, Golan campers enjoy a diverse range of activities throughout the day. They also have the opportunity to choose electives during three Chugim periods each week, returning to a preferred activity to work on a longer-term project or develop their skills. Golan campers also participate in Maccabiah (color war competition) twice per week. Campers also have two optional late nights over the course of the summer to extend their fun beyond the camp day!
5th Grade (Kinneret)
Choice of Mixed-Gender or Single-Gender Bunks
Kinneret campers have ample opportunities to stay engaged and entertained. They can choose from a variety of Chugim electives for five periods each week. In addition, they can participate in Maccabiah two to three times a week, with an expanded selection of activities available as part of their friendly competition. Kinneret campers also have one optional late night and one optional overnight over the course of the summer to extend their fun beyond the camp day!
Grades 6–7 (Kfar)
Choice of Mixed-Gender or Single-Gender Bunks
Kfar campers enjoy even more choices, with two different Chugim opportunities each week (a two-period duration session and a four-period duration session). This increase means our campers have the chance to learn about and create new and exciting things every week.
Additionally, the excitement of Maccabiah is increased, with three to four periods each week, during which campers are divided into teams that include Kibbutz campers and CITs. This provides our Kfar campers with the unique opportunity to bond with others from different backgrounds, learn from older campers, and strengthen their sense of community within the camp. Maccabiah is the highlight of our older campers’ summer – they remember their “Final Presentation” for years to come.
Two optional overnights feature exciting Maccabiah events, and other fun evening activities.
Grades 8–9 (Kibbutz Program)
Mixed-Gender Program
The Kibbutz program at Grossman provides a unique and valuable experience for our campers, allowing them to take on greater responsibility and enjoy a more independent camp lifestyle. Rather than being separated into traditional bunks, Kibbutz campers form a special community where they can bond with one another and participate in daily work assignments, community service projects, and sometimes help prepare their own meals.
Kibbutz campers take part in all regular camp activities, including Maccabiah. They have the opportunity to sleep at camp for two nights each week (only one night during weeks one and two). Starting in week three, one of these overnights will include a special off-site trip, giving them the chance to explore and experience new things.
More About the Kibbutz Program
Kibbutz provides a unique and unforgettable experience for campers entering grades 8–9. It offers the perfect balance of independence and responsibility, creating a partial overnight camp experience within Grossman. Campers who participate in Kibbutz often look back on these years as their most special ones at Camp Grossman.
All Kibbutz campers work for one or two periods every day, rotating jobs every two weeks. These jobs include assisting in the office, tidying the camp, organizing the lost & found, helping specialists to run their activities, assisting counselors in the youngest bunks, and working in the kitchen to prepare meals.
With increased responsibility comes greater independence. Kibbutz campers walk to and from activities, meals, and work periods on their own, and they are expected to be punctual and responsible. They start their day with a morning meeting with their counselors and proceed to their work assignments. After work periods, campers choose from a wide range of activities, or opt to focus on a particular skill.
Most afternoons, Kibbutz campers participate in Maccabiah, which they report as the highlight of their day. On Fridays, they enjoy an Oneg in honor of Shabbat.
Kibbutz campers have the opportunity to experience overnights at camp. They sleep in the lodge, bringing their own sleeping bags and pillows (as do our campers in other units who participate in occasional overnights). Kibbutz campers have the option to leave their bedding in a designated space at camp.
On overnight days, the rest of the camp goes home, leaving Kibbutz campers and their counselors to experience camp in a rare, serene state. They slow down and enjoy each other’s company as they work together to prepare dinner, set tables, and clean up. After dinner, they participate in an evening activity, which may take place in or out of camp. Kibbutz has gone bowling, played miniature golf, attended baseball games, movies, and gone to Faneuil Hall. Kibbutz campers generally settle down in the lodge between 9–10 pm, with lights out at roughly 11pm.
To fully benefit from the Kibbutz program’s unique character and opportunities for bonding with peers, we strongly recommend that campers enroll for a minimum of two consecutive sessions. While exceptions are possible, campers who commit to an extended session tend to get the most out of their experience.
As one camper aptly stated, “You only get to spend 16 weeks of your life in Kibbutz, so you should experience every one of them.”
10th Grade (Counselors in Training)
The Grossman Counselor in Training (CIT) program is a comprehensive program that prepares rising 10th grade students for future counselor positions. In fact, over 50% of our CITs are eventually hired as counselors! Throughout the program, CITs engage in a variety of recreational and non-recreational activities, skill-building sessions, discussion groups, and overnights. They receive guidance from our dedicated CIT director and are assigned to work with either a group of campers or at a specialty activity, all while being closely mentored.
In addition to gaining valuable experience, CITs can also fulfill community service commitments for school. This program provides a unique opportunity for students to develop leadership skills, learn about child development, and make a positive impact in their community. We encourage all who are interested in pursuing a future job in camp to consider a summer at Grossman as a CIT.
More About the CIT Program
Our CIT program, or Counselor in Training program, for campers entering the 10th grade, embraces the fact that campers of this age are not really regular campers, but also not yet counselors. It is actually an in-between program, and in that respect, CIT could easily stand for Campers in Transition, too. The goal of our CIT program is to prepare these campers to become our future counselors.
As Counselors in Training, our CITs are assigned to work with counselors in camp for the majority (usually six periods) of their day. While some CITs choose to work with specialists, helping them to run an activity at camp, the majority of them work in our youngest units: campers entering K to 2nd grade. CITs are typically assigned by each unit head to one bunk, so that they may develop relationships with both the counselor(s) to whom they are assigned and the campers in the bunk(s).
Counselors help train the CITs through experiential, on-the-job learning, and by modeling appropriate interactions with campers. CITs do what the counselors do, albeit, with more guidance. In fact, in our younger bunks, most of the campers think of their CITs as additional counselors, many not even realizing that they are actually campers as well.
In addition to the modeling by the counselors to whom they are assigned, CITs receive regular informal feedback from those counselors, the unit heads, and the CIT director, who regularly observes them. They also receive more formal feedback (in the form of written evaluations) in the middle and end of the summer.
Lastly, CITs meet regularly as a group with the CIT director to discuss their experiences, common issues which may arise, and potential solutions. The CIT director leads weekly trainings — featuring many of our outstanding experts on staff — to review important topics like behavior management, health and safety, and counselor responsibilities.
While our CITs are learning and training for their future roles as counselors, they are still recognized as paying Campers in Transition, thus, a part of each day is dedicated to their own enjoyment without true responsibilities. CITs have six optional overnights at camp, which give them the opportunity to relax and bond as a group. Arguably the fan-favorite part of the CIT camper experience is Maccabiah. Our summer-long Maccabiah competition is one of the most popular activities for our older campers, and is often cited as their reason for returning to camp. Maccabiah events take place during two periods per day, three or four days a week, as well as two evenings a summer. In Maccabiah, our CITs have the opportunity to not only compete for their teams, but to also help lead — as younger team members look to their CITs as role models and for leadership support.
Enrollment and Certification
While our CITs have a great time, our goal is to train them so they are prepared for the eventual role of junior counselor — and that takes time. Although we require a minimum of only one two-week session to register as a CIT, we have found that the more time our CITs spend with us, the better they understand both the camper and counselor experience. Therefore, CITs who are interested in being hired as junior counselors the following summer should strongly consider completing, at a minimum, our four-week training curriculum in order to become “certified.”
A four-week curriculum comprises two training modules. One is offered in sessions one and three, and the other is offered in sessions two and four. To receive the full four-week curriculum requires enrollment in both one odd-numbered session and one even-numbered session.
Benefits
CITs who successfully complete the minimum four-week curriculum, and receive recommendations from both the CIT Director and their unit heads or specialty supervisor, will receive an offer to work the following summer. They will also be considered returning staff and receive the increase in salary that comes with that. CITs who do not receive certification are still welcome to apply to work at Camp Grossman in the future, but will need to provide references and participate in an interview (like any other applicant) and, if hired, will be considered and paid as new staff.
CITs often make the very best staff members due to their impactful camp CIT experiences. We look forward to welcoming successful CITs to our staff in the future.
*While the four-week curriculum is the minimum required amount of time to become a certified CIT, CITs are always encouraged to enroll for as much of the summer as they are able. CITs who have already successfully completed the curriculum will have a few options when the trainings begin in a new session. They may:
- Attend the trainings again with their peers (which can be a great refresher and, because the trainings are interactive, they may offer valuable new information).
- Skip the training and remain at their jobs.
- Participate in an advanced training session during that time, if applicable. (Contingent upon there being enough CITs available who have also already experienced the training session being offered.
Jump Right In!
Swimming at Camp Grossman
We offer a unique swimming experience for campers in the beautiful Powissett Pond. With instructional and free swim daily (weather permitting), American Red Cross-certified lifeguards teach a modified Red Cross swim curriculum to swimmers of all levels and abilities.
Campers are placed in appropriate swim groups that change as they develop their skills. By attending camp for at least two consecutive sessions (four weeks), your camper will be able to make the most progress! Families can expect communication from the waterfront staff during their camper’s full session(s), and can contact waterfront@jccgb.org with further questions.
Join the Fun Without the Hassle
Transportation
We’re dedicated to making it as easy as possible for everyone to get to camp. For a weekly rate of $75/camper, we provide bus transportation from over 30 towns in Greater Boston!
- Each bus is supervised by one to two counselors. Most of our counselors are required to ride the bus. It is their responsibility to take attendance going to and coming from camp, and to supervise behavior on the buses. If we are unable to find any counselors to ride a particular bus, we will notify all families on that bus before camp starts, so that you may choose to make alternative arrangements.
- Arrive ten minutes before the scheduled arrival/departure time, as buses will leave at the scheduled time and will not wait for latecomers.
- You may provide permission for your camper to walk home from their bus stop during the registration process.
Bus stops offered in:
- Arlington, Belmont, Boston, Brighton, Brookline, Cambridge, Canton, Chestnut Hill, Concord, Dorchester, Dedham, Framingham, Hyde Park, Jamaica Plain, Lexington, Medfield, Milton, Natick, Needham, Newton, Norwood, Randolph, Roslindale, Sharon, Sherborn, Somerville, Sudbury, Waltham, Watertown, Wayland, Wellesley, West Roxbury, Weston, and Westwood
For Families Who Drive to Camp
Please plan to drop off your camper between 8:15–8:30am, and pick up between 4:15–4:30pm.
Formerly Our Special Needs Program
Pathways 3:1
At Camp Grossman, we believe in celebrating the unique needs of every camper. We have been committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for children with different abilities for over 35 years. Our Pathways program is designed with a child-centered approach that caters to the specific abilities and needs of each camper. Pathways campers must be entering 1st grade or older.
We strive to fully integrate children with mild to moderate disabilities into our regular programming, while offering a specialized bunk with a 3:1 camper-counselor ratio for those who require extra support. Our highly qualified staff oversees the Pathways 3:1 program to ensure success and growth for all campers. If you believe that your child would benefit from the Pathways 3:1 program, please indicate so on your camp application.
In addition to our Pathways program, Camp Grossman is fortunate to have three professional Community Support Advocates. CSAs are available to support campers in all camping bunks and programs, specializing in behavioral, mental, emotional and social health needs. CSAs work alongside bunk counselors and Unit Heads to coordinate visits or planning to make each child’s camp experience most successful.
Meet Our Pathways Team!
Community Support Advocate – Carmel, Galil, Negev
Sherri Winter-Dierks
Community Support Advocate – Carmel, Galil, Negev
Sherri Winter-Dierks is a long-time alum of Camp Grossman. For the past 15 years, she has been a special education preschool teacher in both sub-separate and inclusion settings. She received her undergraduate degree from UMass -Amherst, and her master’s degree in special education from Bridgewater State College. She is passionate about inclusion and enjoys learning right alongside her students. Sherri has worn many hats at Camp Grossman over the years. From camper to counselor, and assistant director for Special Needs, she now joins us as the CSA for Junior Village (children ages 4-8 years old). Sherri is very excited about giving all campers the tools they need to be successful in the camp environment.
Community Support Advocate – Moshav, Midbar, Aravah
Stephanie Rohr
Community Support Advocate – Moshav, Midbar, Aravah
Stephanie Rohr is a Licensed Social Worker and is a certified ADHD clinician, with a BA in Ancient Studies from Mount Holyoke and a MSW from Simmons. Steph works with campers as a Community Support Advocate for Aravah, Midbar and Golan Units where she supports the Behavioral, Mental, Emotional and Social Health (BMESH) needs of campers. Energy and dedication along with her extensive knowledge allow Steph to engage with campers and counselors alike to formulate a plan for success at camp. We are very fortunate to have her as part of the Camp Grossman team!
Community Support Advocate – Golan, Kinneret, Kfar, Kibbutz, CIT
Naomi Gabovitch
Community Support Advocate – Golan, Kinneret, Kfar, Kibbutz, CIT
Naomi Gabovitch grew up at Camp Grossman where she was a camper for 11 years, and a staff member for 14. Now a CSA, Naomi shares the joy and spirit of camp with the campers she supports.
Naomi received her BA in Psychology from Indiana University and her MEd in School Adjustment and Mental Health Counseling from Cambridge College. During the non-camp season, Naomi works as a School Adjustment Counselor providing mental health and special education support at the high school level. Working with counselors and campers together allows a focus on formulating a plan to engage campers at the highest level. The Units of Kinneret, Kfar, Kibbutz, and CITs are all fortunate to have Naomi on the Grossman team!
Director of Pathways
Diane Saltzberg
Director of Pathways
Diane has been a mentor and a driving force for our special needs campers at Camp Grossman for many years. She has worked in camps since the nineties, with more than 15 years as our special needs director. Diane has recently retired from the Striar Hebrew Academy in Sharon and a 40-year career as a school adjustment counselor for the Weston Public Schools.
For further information, please do not hesitate to contact our Camp Grossman Pathways director at 617.244.5124, or email pathways-grossman@jccgb.org.
2024 Rates
2024 Rates
| Session Cost (2 Weeks) | Plus-Week Cost* | Ninth Week Cost | |
| All Campers Entering K–7 | $1,480 | $790 | $775 |
| Kibbutz Program Campers Entering Grades 8–9 | $1,580 | $815 | $600 |
| CITs Entering Grade 10 | $1,200 | $625 | Successful CITs may apply to work as junior counselors during the 9th week, or remain as CITs and receive a stipend. |
| Per Camper Registration Fee-$25 |
*At a minimum, you must register for any two-week session, and you may then register for any additional single “plus” weeks. It is highly recommended that your first week of camp be on an odd-numbered week to ensure campers get oriented to their group most successfully.
New: Please note a $25 non-refundable registration fee will apply to each camper enrolled.
**Our ability to offer ninth week programs to our Pathways 3:1 campers is determined on an individual basis. Decisions will not be made until summertime. Please contact the director of Pathways at grossman-pathways@jccgb.org during the summer to inquire.
Discounts
Sibling Discount: Save $50 for the second and each additional sibling in a family.
JCC Members: Save $50/session.
2024 Dates
| Session 1 (Weeks 1–2) | June 24-July 5 (no camp July 4) |
| Session 2 (Weeks 3–4) | July 8-July 19 |
| Session 3 (Weeks 5–6) | July 22-August 2 |
| Session 4 (Weeks 7–8) | August 5-August 16 |
| 9th Week | August 19-August 23 |
Add-Ons
| Bus Transportation | +$75/week |
| After Care @JCC | +$180/week |
After Care is available Monday–Friday during weeks 1–8. Pick-up is by 6pm at the Leventhal-Sidman JCC.
FAQs
What Sets Grossman Apart From Other Camps?
Camp Grossman is the perfect choice for families looking to provide their children with an unforgettable summer experience. Here are just a few reasons:
- Grossman offers a unique Jewish flavor that permeates all of our activities and programs, providing a meaningful and culturally-rich experience for campers of all backgrounds.
- Our experienced supervisory staff is unparalleled in New England, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all campers while fostering a fun and engaging environment.
- Nestled in a natural, protected environment, our camp’s location and setting is truly one-of-a-kind, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure and exploration.
- With reasonable tuition fees and generous financial assistance available, Camp Grossman is an affordable and accessible option for families of all income levels.
Does Camp Grossman Have Specific Enrollment Recommendations?
To ensure the best possible experience for our campers, we require a minimum enrollment of one full two-week session. Unfortunately, we cannot split sessions; however, campers may add on additional weeks to extend their stay. Most campers attend an average of four to five weeks, and we highly recommend this length of stay, at a minimum, as it allows for deeper bonds to be formed within the camp community, and facilitates progress in swim instruction.
What Should I Bring To Camp?
Packing List
- Backpack with Bus Tag attached
- Water bottle (labeled)
- Bathing suit, towel, beach shoes (optional)
- Lunch-see Packing Lunches below
- Sunscreen & bug spray
- Snacks
- Hat
- Rain gear and sweatshirt (may be kept at camp)
- Spare change of clothing (for younger children, may be kept at camp)
Clothing
To ensure quick return of any lost items, please label all clothing, water bottles, towels, and bathing suits with your camper’s full name. Additionally, please check the weather forecast and provide appropriate clothing, including secure footwear such as sneakers or sandals (no flip-flops please).
Valuables
To avoid loss or damage, please refrain from sending items of high monetary or sentimental value to camp. Additionally, the use of all electronics, including cell phones and handheld devices, is prohibited.
Sun Safety & Hydration
To ensure their well-being during outdoor activities, children should come to camp with sunscreen applied and a labeled water bottle. Our staff will provide opportunities for reapplying sunscreen (or apply at your request), and opportunities for refilling water bottles. Water fountains are also located all over camp, and campers are encouraged to hydrate all day long. The Shuk (canteen) also has a variety of beverages available for purchase. Bottled water for $1 and all other bottled drinks $2. Families may purchase a pre-paid Shuk punch card by contacting the office.
Packing Lunches
(Dairy, Pareve, fish, or vegetarian with an ice pack if desired. Please do not bring meat, poultry, or shellfish to camp.)
Starting Summer 2024, Camp Grossman will be instituting a nut-free policy. Please read the guidelines in our Policies section below.
My Child Is Not Interested in Sports. How Will That Affect Their Experience?
At Camp Grossman, physical activity is an essential component of our daily routine. While we promote exercise and healthy living, our sports programs prioritize teamwork and enjoyment over competition. Whether your camper loves to push themselves to the limit or prefers more relaxed activities, we have options to accommodate all interests and abilities.
Additionally, families may approve their child’s opt-out from any activity they feel uncomfortable with. Our goal is to provide a safe and inclusive environment where every camper feels empowered to try new things and have fun.
My Child Is Afraid To Swim. How Do You Handle This at Camp?
At JCC camps, we believe that swimming is a fundamental life skill and a critical part of every camper’s experience. While we do not force children to swim, we strive to help every camper build their confidence in the water and teach them to safely enjoy swimming. In cases where a child may have exceptional fears or concerns, we may offer one-on-one support to help them overcome their anxieties.
Additionally, we encourage families to reach out to us with any questions or concerns about their child’s progress in our swim program. Our dedicated staff is committed to ensuring every child feels safe and supported as they learn this important life skill.
What Is the Jewish Component of the Camp?
At Grossman, we are proud to offer an informal Jewish education program that allows campers to experience Jewish culture in a relaxed environment. Our program incorporates music, weekly Oneg Shabbat celebrations, and Jewish themes. This creates a vibrant and engaging learning environment.
For our younger campers, we have a dedicated period each session to focus on Jewish culture and explore the significance of Jewish traditions in their lives. Through our program, we hope to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Jewish values while creating a fun and memorable summer experience for all our campers.
Does My Child Have To Have a Strong Jewish Background To Attend and Feel Comfortable at Camp Grossman?
At Grossman, we welcome campers of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs to join us for a fun-filled summer camp experience. While approximately 90% of our campers are Jewish and 80% of our staff members are Jewish, we are proud to have a diverse community that includes campers from a wide range of cultural and religious backgrounds.
We believe that our informal Jewish education program can benefit all campers, regardless of their faith, as it promotes a deeper understanding of important values.
How Does Camp Grossman Communicate With Families During the Summer?
We understand that parents want to stay connected with their camper’s summer camp experience, which is why we offer several opportunities for families to stay informed and engaged with Camp Grossman.
Visiting day is a highly anticipated event held on the Sunday before the start of the camp season, where families can visit the camp, meet the staff, and get a sneak preview of camp in action.
Additionally, Camp Grossman uses the Campanion app to provide an area for photo viewing, to communicate with “microposts” and more. Information on how to sign up for the App will be provided to all enrolled families.
Our counselors and waterfront staff members are also in regular communication with families, with counselors sending updates at least once or twice a summer, and waterfront staff members emailing the families of our youngest campers. We believe that regular communication and involvement from families is an important part of creating a successful and positive camp experience for all.
How Does Camp Grossman Deal With Medical Care and Emergencies?
At Camp Grossman, the health and safety of our campers is a top priority. Our team includes two registered nurses with extensive experience, who can provide specialized medical care to children with allergies, asthma, and other health concerns. Our nurses carefully review each health form to ensure that every child receives appropriate medical attention. We welcome families to communicate with us about their child’s needs, and schedule appointments with our nurses during the spring, or on visiting day (which takes place in advance of the start of camp).
Policies
Payments, Cancellations, and Terms & Conditions
Payments & Cancellations
- Camp Grossman requires a separate deposit for each session or week. The deposit(s) are strictly tied to those specific sessions and/or weeks. A deposit of $75 per week is due upon registration.
- Sessions or weeks may be dropped or switched, pending availability, without loss of deposit, until February 1.
- Sessions may not be split in order to drop individual weeks.
- Payment Dates:
- After February 1: Deposits are no longer refundable or transferable.
- February 1–May 1: Sessions may be dropped, and all fees paid will be refunded, except the registration fee and any deposit(s).
- May 1: Families are financially responsible for all sessions and/or weeks for which they are registered. Any outstanding fees will be collected in accordance with the previously selected payment plan option unless written notice to withdraw/unenroll has been received by May 1.
- Tuition is non-refundable after May 1. This includes: no refunds for illness, partial sessions/weeks attended, or change of plans.
- Camp Grossman does not charge a fee to be on our waitlist. If a camper is waitlisted and a spot opens up, the next camper in line will automatically enrolled, with a deposit charged to the payment method on file and the family will receive notification.
- Families have one week to decline the spot for a refund of the associated deposit.
- Families may remove their name from the waitlist by email at any time.
- Payment of camp tuition may be paid in the following forms:
- By check
- By Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
- By credit card.
- A convenience fee may apply depending on the method of payment. If you elect to pay by physical check, please note that payment must be received and processed before the installment date, to avoid having that payment charged to the payment method on file.
- A $25 processing fee will be added to your invoice for any check or EFT returned unpaid, or credit card declined.
- There are two payment options available at the time of registration:
- You may pay in two installments (in March and in May)
- You may pay via a monthly payment plan.
- You must select your payment option at the time of registration. Any registration after May 1 requires full payment by June 15.
COVID-19
In the event that Camp Grossman must close your child’s bunk, unit, or all of camp, due to state or local mandate, we will do our best to fit you into another week, session, or JCC camp program as you prefer. If we are unable to accommodate you, JCC Greater Boston will credit your account for use in a future program.
Financial Aid
Thanks to the support of generous individual and foundation donors, JCC Greater Boston makes every effort to offer financial assistance to campers in need. For more information, or a confidential conversation, please contact us. Applications are due February 1.
Financial aid applications must be made online before February 1, at which time all submitted requests will be reviewed. Requests made after February 1 will be reviewed individually and are dependent upon funds remaining. Awards are not guaranteed year to year or for weeks added after February 1. If you are unable to accept the award, you must submit a written request to either reduce enrollment or withdraw. You must submit this request within two weeks of award notification in order to receive a refund of any deposit(s) connected to the withdrawal.
Additional weeks may be added after the deadline has passed, however, there is no guarantee that the aid will be the same. Financial aid is not transferable between camps.
Nut-Free Policy New for 2024
Starting this Summer 2024, Camp Grossman will no longer provide or allow any nut (tree and peanut) products at camp. We ask that families (and staff) also refrain from sending nuts, nut butter, and other nut products to camp to further our efforts to make camp a safe and inclusive place for all. While new to Grossman, this policy is consistent with that of most schools and other camp settings, but if it is new to you, or you have any questions, please feel to contact us at grossman@jccgb.org.
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Join the Camp Grossman Team
Camp Grossman is currently accepting applications for summer staff for the 2024 season. Staff who are able to work all 8 weeks will be given preference.
Meet the Team
Director, Camp Grossman
Leslie Hochstein
Director, Camp Grossman
Leslie brings a wealth of experience to her role as the director of Camp Grossman. She first joined the camp in 2007 as a unit head, later assuming the role of specialist supervisor. In 2011, Leslie joined the JCC year-round team as the coordinator — and then director — of special events and recruiting for JCC camps. Leslie was appointed director of Camp Grossman in 2019.
Prior to her career in camps, Leslie was a criminal defense trial attorney with The Legal Aid Society in Brooklyn. She holds a bachelor’s in politics from Mt. Holyoke College, and studied law at Boston College.
Program Director, Camp Grossman
Liam McSweeney
Program Director, Camp Grossman
Liam McSweeney brings experience and passion to his new role as Program Director of Camp Grossman. He first started at Camp Grossman in 2007 as a counselor in Kinneret. Later, Liam worked as a special needs counselor, the assistant special needs director, and the Kinneret Unit Head. Liam also ran the 9th-week program for 2 summers.
In his camp “off-season”, Liam was a special education teacher on the south shore, at both the elementary and high school levels. Before coming back to Camp Grossman, Liam spent two years as the director of the before and after school program across multiple sites for his local YMCA. He holds a bachelor’s in psychology from the University of Maine and studied special education at American International College.
Assistant Director, Camp Grossman
Sue Green
Assistant Director, Camp Grossman
Sue brings years of experience and expertise to her role at Camp Grossman, having worked summers at the camp since the eighties. During the off-season, she works at the JCC camps office, and is responsible for JCC School Vacation Camp. At Grossman, Sue oversees the lower camp and Jewish programs.
Sue is a lifelong Jewish educator, with years of experience as the principal of a synagogue’s religious school, and teaching experience at Temple Emanuel’s Hebrew school. Sue holds a bachelor’s in sociology and education from Clark University and a master’s in social work from Boston College.
Assistant Director, Camp Grossman
David Wolf
Assistant Director, Camp Grossman
David brings a wealth of experience to his role at Camp Grossman, having joined the staff in 1983. He currently oversees the upper camp, and is widely known as “Mr. Maccabiah” for his role in running the camp-wide competition of the same name. With a background in education, David is retired from a career as a fifth-grade teacher at Solomon Schecter Day School in Newton. He holds a bachelor’s from Trinity College.
Director of Pathways
Diane Saltzberg
Director of Pathways
Diane has been a mentor and a driving force for our special needs campers at Camp Grossman for many years. She has worked in camps since the nineties, with more than 15 years as our special needs director. Diane has recently retired from the Striar Hebrew Academy in Sharon and a 40-year career as a school adjustment counselor for the Weston Public Schools.
Support Camp Grossman
Help leave a lasting impact on the thousands of children who participate in JCC Greater Boston’s camping programs during the summer and year-round.
Get In Touch
Summer
Camp Grossman
294 Powissett Street, Dover, MA 02030
781.329.9300
Year-Round
JCC Camp Grossman
333 Nahanton Street, Newton, MA 02459
617.244.5124
grossman@jccgb.org