“In this milestone year, as we reflect back on a century of Tawonga’s impact, we are deeply grateful for the crucial support the Federation has provided for so many decades; this operational support and funds for camp scholarships have strengthened our organization and helped hundreds of people experience Jewish joy and belonging through Tawonga who would otherwise not have been able to afford it. Over just the last decade, Federation donors have contributed over $5.6 million to Camp Tawonga and Tawonga families. The Federation continues to be instrumental in helping us to lower the financial barrier for more families every year – we couldn’t do this work without them.” – Becca Meyer, CEO

This year marks Federation grantee Camp Tawonga’s 100th anniversary — a monumental milestone for this beloved institution. Over the decades, Tawonga has become more than just a summer camp; it’s a vibrant community rooted in Jewish values, inclusion, and a deep respect for the land. Founded in 1925 by San Francisco Jewish community leaders, Tawonga was initially envisioned as a rustic retreat in the Sierra Nevada Mountains where children could make friends, have fun, and escape the heat of Bay Area summers. Originally, the camp only served boys, reflecting the social norms of the time. As the camp evolved, so did its programming and purpose, reflecting the changing world around it — from the horrors of World War II and the Holocaust to the founding of Israel and the tremendous growth of the Bay Area’s Jewish community.

Throughout its history, Tawonga has remained committed to its core mission — that a loving, inclusive Jewish community gives children a chance to gain self-confidence, explore their spirituality, and discover the truest versions of themselves. The end result? More compassion, acceptance of others, and a desire to repair the world. Over the years, Tawonga has become a leader in Jewish camping, fostering in children and families a deep connection to nature, community, and Jewish identity.

“In Tawonga’s 100th year, it’s a privilege to continue to create joyful programming where kids can strengthen their Jewish identities and foster deep connections to themselves, community, and nature. With antisemitism on the rise and increasing mental health challenges in children and teens, the need is greater than ever for spaces like Tawonga where kids can unplug, immerse in the outdoors, and feel proud to be Jewish.” – Aaron Mandel, Camp Director

Many alumni recount how Camp Tawonga’s environment has been a foundation for their lives. Ellen Nystrom, who attended as a camper in the mid-eighties, shares, “Growing up, I didn’t have a lot of exposure to Judaism through my family. Camp Tawonga was probably my main exposure and probably the reason why I came back to Judaism as an adult.” Ellen returned as a counsellor in the 90s, when she met Erik Rice, who eventually became her husband. Erik remarks, “First and foremost, it connected us. Camp Tawonga is our family’s origin story.” Robyn Frye, whose family has been intertwined with Tawonga for generations, said, “In the Palo Alto area where I grew up, Tawonga was a popular place for kids. All three of us [Robyn and her brothers] went to camp at the same time, and then, as my older brothers graduated, I kept going to camp. We went every possible summer we could. It was just part of our lives.”

As Tawonga celebrates its centennial, the camp also looks forward, committed to evolving with the needs of its community. The past decade has seen significant improvements to strengthen its facilities and expand access. From a new solar array and kitchen garden to updated residential cabins and a central bathhouse with flexible gender configuration, Tawonga demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability and inclusivity. As Robyn notes, “for many people, camp is the only place they feel like they can be themselves.” Ellen and Erik echo that thought. “Our child Ari, our younger child, did the non-binary cabin for their final year. [Camp Tawonga] is just this super safe space.”

For those who have experienced Tawonga, the camp is more than a place — it’s home. Robyn says, “Every time I drive down that hill into camp, I just feel this sense belonging. Joy and belonging — those two words describe what Tawonga is about.” Erik and Ellen put it this way — “Magical, spiritual. It’s our happy place.” These feelings of joy, belonging, and community continue to define the camp’s legacy, ensuring that it remains a place where children and families can grow, explore, and connect in a safe, welcoming environment.

Here’s to 100 years of joy, inclusion, and stewardship — and to many more to come.