Jewish Girls Unite expanded from a 2-acre property in East Greenbush, NY, purchased on October 17, 2018, to an adjacent stunning 13-acre property just in time for the Jewish girls Summer Retreat.
“We are deeply grateful to our generous Founding Partners who realized the dream to establish the new Jewish Leadership Campus in Upstate NY, a place for Jewish girls worldwide to call home,” says Nechama Laber, Founder and Director. Support also came from around the world during the 36-hour Live Charidy global campaign; launched mid-camp.
The closing took place on August 1, 2019, 3 days before the 34th Yartzeit for Nechama Dina Laber’s father, Rabbi Azriel Yitzchok Wasserman. The inaugural Jewish Girls Summer Retreat was held two weeks later. Rabbi Wasserman’s legacy is shining bright. In addition to the innovative programming and trips, girls especially enjoyed boating on the 3-acre pond, feeding the chickens, nature walks, outdoor sports, bonfires, gardening, and art workshops on the new campus. Since 2005, the Jewish Girls Retreat motto has been “Where Heaven and Earth Meet”, and we are grateful to Hashem and our partners that we experienced this on all levels”, said Rabbi Avraham Laber who is also a beekeeper and gardener.
Jewish Girls Unite will continue to offer year-round online classes and Summer and Winter retreats to inspire the girls of today to grow into tomorrow’s confident mothers and leaders. Family Holiday Retreats are being planned for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and the first days of Sukkot. Hotel accommodations are across the street from the campus. Guests will enjoy Rabbi Avraham’s Laber’s raw honey from his beehives, garlic, tomatoes, and squash from the garden and the view of the pond from the dining hall and the large deck.
Chazzan Rabbi Mendy Shepherd and Rabbi Avraham Laber, Chabad Shliach to Southern Rensselaer County, will lead the prayer services. Participants will also experience Farbrengens and activities for men, women, and children.
VIDEO: Establishing the Campus:
Here is what our girls are saying about their experience:
Aeden: I love JGU because of how nice everyone is and how everyone can feel accepted. When I’m here I feel closer to Hashem.
AriAna: JGU helps me on my journey to discover who I am.
Hadassah: I love JGR so much because you made every girl’s heart sing.
Daniella: JGU is a wonderful camp. They have excellent counselors, gourmet chefs and fun for everyone. Thanks for making it the best camp ever!
To find out more information about Jewish Girls Unite or to reserve your spot for the Holiday Retreats, Contact Nechama Laber at 518.727.9581 or email jewishgirlsunite@gmail.com
The Jewish Leadership Campus is also available for your family weekend or group retreat.
Partner today in building the future through various high-impact programs at the Jewish Leadership Campus! Help continue Rabbi Azriel Wasserman’s legacy for Jewish education with love and joy.
