Expanding the Light: B’nai Mitzvah Fundraisers for Jacobs Camp

Feb 9, 2026

“If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?” — Hillel the Elder, Pirkei Avot 1:14

It can be overwhelming to look at the world today and wonder where to even begin making a difference. While we may not be able to solve every world challenge, Hillel’s wisdom reminds us that we can start with the communities we hold dear. For our campers, Jacobs Camp is more than just a place. It’s a source of light and a home where they feel truly seen.

By focusing a B’nai Mitzvah Tzedek Project on Camp, our campers take that big desire to do good and channel it into a place where they can see the direct impact of their work. They are choosing to protect and expand the “Jacobs Magic” that they have experienced themselves.

Our campers understand that by supporting camp, they are helping others find the same connection they’ve experienced.

To have a Jewish camp in the South is extremely unique and important both to my family and other families. For many campers from small towns throughout the South, their time at HSJ each summer is their only opportunity to live in a Jewish space with Jewish peers day in and day out.
Alte L.

Camper

This past summer was my 5th year at camp and I think it was the best time I have ever had. I love seeing my camp friends and all of the fun activities… I want to make it possible for more Jewish kids from Nashville and other cities to go to camp without having to worry about financial issues.
Harry K.

Camper

If Not Now, When?

Becoming a B’nai Mitzvah is the moment a young person steps up and says, “I am a leader in my community.” By choosing to raise funds for camp, our campers ensure that the camp experience is a gift available to every child.  If you or your soon-to-be B’nai Mitzvah is interested in supporting Jacobs Camp through a Tzedek Project Fundraiser, email me at pmandelman@urj.org.

About the Author

Paige Mandelman

Paige is the Capital Campaign Manager for Jacobs Camp. She loves Shabbat at Camp, her favorite camp “meal” is camp birthday cake, and she believes that camp is a place where kids feel safe to unapologetically be themselves.

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