Becky Simon’s connection to Jewish summer camps runs deep, as she grew up attending camps every summer in upstate New York. So, it was a no-brainer when she and her husband chose to send all three kids to Camp Shai after moving to Denver. “Registering my oldest child, Sabine, for Camp Shai was how we first got involved with JCC Denver,” Becky explains. Now, the whole family feels at home at the J, from fitness center and outdoor pool time to ceramics classes. “I take ceramics classes with Ari Shahbazi and my friend Jenna, so I’m at the J quite often,” she adds.

Excitement is in the air as the Camp Shai crew gears up for a day full of fun, friendship, and unforgettable adventures!
For Becky, the sense of community Camp Shai builds for her children is invaluable. “We’ve gotten to know most of the counselors, and we often run into people we’ve connected with through the J at Temple Emanuel. With so many returning staff and campers, Camp Shai fosters a strong community for our children in many different ways.” Becky fondly remembers a moment of pride when Sabine passed the deep-end swimming test at Camp Shai. Then, during Focus Week, when campers select a hobby to explore, Sabine learned to throw clay in the ceramic studio—just like her mom.
“It’s special knowing that we both learned ceramics from the same teachers. It’s about creating that web of community,” Becky reflects. For her son, Sidney, age 7, the consistency of returning staff and familiar faces at Camp Shai has made all the difference. “The staff is incredible at understanding different children’s personalities and needs. Sidney is a bit quieter, but he feels welcomed and supported. The staff truly have a gift for working with kids,” Becky says. She appreciates how Camp Shai offers both structure and variety, allowing her children to grow in an environment where they feel safe and connected. “The kids can thrive because they know what to expect while still being exposed to new and exciting programming.”
This summer, Becky’s youngest child, Jullian, will experience Camp Shai for the first time. Recently, Jullian attended the School’s Out camp, where he achieved a personal milestone: teaching himself to swim. “He decided he was ready after going to the indoor pool every day with School’s Out. It’s been wonderful having his older siblings there to welcome him, show him the ropes, and make him feel at home,” Becky explains. “Sarah Jones – Director of Camp Shai and Corey Clemmons—Assistant Director of Youth Programs, have been so flexible and supportive with what’s best for him.”
Next summer will mark a big transition for Sabine as she enters her final year as a camper. After this summer, Sabine will embark on her next chapter with Camp Shai’s Counselors-in-Training (CIT) program, which means Sabine can return next year as part of the leadership team. I’m thrilled for her to step up, gain new responsibilities, and begin building independence—all within a community where she already feels comfortable and confident.”
Registration for Camp Shai opens to the public on January 22. Check out their programming here: Best Denver Summer Camps, Camp Shai – JCC Denver