On July 23, a group of donors from The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington (JFGW) had the opportunity to witness inclusion in action at Lessans Camp JCC, located within the Bender JCC in Rockville, Maryland. For many visitors, it was their first glimpse into how their generosity is creating transformative experiences for campers and counselors alike.

Josh Bender, CEO of the Bender JCC, kicked off the visit with a warm welcome and a clear message: “Every individual has a divine spark.” That belief, grounded in Jewish values, guides every aspect of Lessans Camp JCC. It’s a place where every camper—regardless of ability, background, or identity—is celebrated for who they are.

From the rock wall to the pool and even the playground–everything at camp is designed to be accessible to all its campers.

The tour focused on three layers of inclusion: physical, programmatic, and social.

• Physical inclusion means creating spaces that work for everyone. From pathways to play structures, the camp is intentionally designed with universal access in mind. Visitors saw how infrastructure choices ensure that every child can participate fully.
• Programmatic inclusion came to life through thoughtful activities and accommodations. Whether it’s at the climbing wall, on a field trip, or during daily routines, the camp team makes deliberate choices to adapt programs and engage campers of all abilities.
• Social inclusion is perhaps the most powerful. As donors observed interactions between staff and campers, the spirit of belonging was unmistakable. Counselors help foster genuine friendships, model empathy, and encourage each camper to be themselves.

One of the unique strengths of Lessans Camp JCC is its approach to staffing. As camp leaders shared, many counselors are new to working with individuals with disabilities. What the camp looks for isn’t prior experience—it’s the right mindset. Through mentorship and daily guidance, staff grow into their roles and carry the values of inclusion well beyond the summer.

“We know they leave camp changed,” said a staff member. “Whether they come back or move into other fields, they take this experience with them.”

Throughout the visit, one theme resonated: The Jewish Federation’s support is essential to making this possible. From program funding to on-site security, Federation dollars ensure that every camper has a safe, enriching, and inclusive summer experience.

“Belonging and inclusion are at the heart of what we do at Federation—they’re essential to building a strong, vibrant Jewish community,” explains Federation’s Chief Development Officer Keren Waranch. “That’s why we continue to prioritize support for these initiatives, alongside our steadfast support for Jewish camp. Together, they shape the spaces and experiences that help define Jewish identity for generations to come. This visit to the Lessans JCC Camp brought those values to life.”

Jamie Bilcher, a parent of two seven-year-old boys who attend camp, shared what this camp experience means for her family. “I know that my kids feel like all of the other kids here, and they feel important, and they feel special, and they’re not defined by their disabilities here,” she said. “I feel like I’m constantly, everywhere I go, looking for ramps and special doors. I don’t have to worry about any of that here.”

She added, “Medical bills are incredibly expensive…The fact that camp is funded for them each to have their own counselor is huge and takes such a weight off our shoulders.”

Federation is proud to partner with Lessans Camp JCC and to support the Bender JCC’s vision of radical inclusion—a vision that extends beyond disability to encompass all backgrounds, faiths, and identities.

In a world that often feels divided, camps like Lessans Camp JCC offer a powerful reminder of what community can look like when everyone is welcomed.

Because of you, inclusion thrives.