Camp Centerland Brochure 2026 by JCCBuffalo

General Information

Camp Through a Jewish Lens

This year, we’re devoted to creating a healthy, thriving Jewish spirit at Camp Centerland. In Judaism, we are encouraged to cultivate a sense of gratitude, wonder, and curiosity about the world around us and the way we interact with it.

At camp, we will explore Shabbat on a deeper level, acknowledge our environment through a Jewish lens, and nurture the Jewish relationship to Israel. When we weave these aspects of Jewish life into our schedule, we not only learn about Judaism, we experience its beauty.

* Fee Assistance is available for qualifying families. Check the box on the camp application, and more information will be provided.

PLEASE

• A $50 per week non refundable deposit is due at registration.

• To qualify for the member discount, applicant must be a member in good standing at the time of registration, and throughout the camp season.

• Campers must be registered for full days of camp to be eligible to attend a Specialty Camp.

• All early pick ups must be before 3:30pm. After that, campers must be picked up at Centerland Carpool.

Camp Centerland

Discover the ultimate outdoor experience at Camp Centerland, where fun and exploration come together!

• Sports & Games: Enjoy soccer, basketball, swimming, Gaga, archery, and team challenges that inspire collaborative fun.

• Arts & Crafts (Omanut): Unleash creativity with painting, tie-dye, sculpting, and DIY projects.

• STEM: Dive into hands-on science, coding, robotics, and engineering challenges.

• Nature (Teva): Explore hiking trails, wildlife, gardening, and environmental activities.

• Music (Shira) & Theater: Shine on stage with singing, acting, and performing at camp.

Adventure, creativity, and lifelong memories await!

Junior Camp (Entering grades K-2 in Fall 2026)

ןורש Sharon : Kindergarten בגנ Negev : Grades 1-2

Our young campers explore their creativity, build lasting friendships, and learn important values like teamwork, kindness, and respect. Through fun activities in arts, nature, and games, kids grow, laugh, and discover their unique potential in a supportive and joyful environment.

Senior Camp (Entering grades 3-6 in Fall 2026)

הדוהי Yehuda: Grades 3-4

דיתע Atid: Grades 5-6

Our older campers deepen friendships, learn important values, and take on exciting challenges. From soaring on the zipline to conquering rock climbing, it’s an unforgettable experience of growth, fun, and adventure! Senior campers are given senior choice, allowing them to choose the fun.

Discovery Camp (Entering grades 7-9 in Fall 2026)

Our Disco campers will enjoy outdoor adventure, leadership, and fun! Disco campers enjoy swimming, arts and crafts, STEM, music, theater, ziplining, and high ropes. They also help display camp values and mentor younger campers, all while enjoying exciting field trips like catching a Bison’s game or exploring a national park.

Leadership in Training (L.I.T.) (Entering grade 10 in Fall 2026)

The Leadership Program for teens is a dynamic blend of mentorship and camp fun, focusing on developing future counselors. Participants learn leadership skills while teaching camp values and leading activities. Each L.I.T. session is three weeks, starting Weeks 2 and 5.

Camp Centerland Mission and Vision

Camp Mission

At Camp Centerland, we are dedicated to providing a safe space where children can explore their identity, values, and traditions. Our mission is to inspire and empower each camper to embrace their unique potential within a supportive community. We foster an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity, meaningful connections, and shared experiences.

Camp Vision

At Camp Centerland, our vision is to be a transformative force in the lives of children, fostering a vibrant community where each camper discovers and embraces their unique potential. We aspire to create an inclusive and empowering environment, where the exploration of identity, values, and traditions becomes a catalyst for personal growth. Through meaningful connections and shared experiences, we envision a camp that inspires a lifelong love for learning, self-discovery, and a deep appreciation for diversity. Our commitment is to continue providing a safe and supportive space where every child can thrive and contribute to the rich tapestry of our camp community.

Safety is important to us

Even though summer is filled with fun, safety is our number one priority. Some safety measures include: application of sunscreen, a certified Professional Registered Nurse on staff, CPR/First Aid certified staff, and background checks on all camp employees. The Amherst Police are notified when camp is in session and conduct several checks of camp during our camp season.

Specialty Camps

Robotics: Robo Lab – 1/2 Day, Grades 1-3

Explore the basics of coding and engineering using STEM kits. Kids will learn how to program them with easy, visual coding tools, and test their creations through fun challenges and games. Along the way, students will develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and confidence while discovering how technology works in the world around them.

Robotics: Bot Builders – 1/2 Day, Grades 4-8

Challenges students to design, build, and test their own robots using hands-on STEM kits. Explore engineering concepts such as structure, motion, and problem-solving while bringing their robotic creations to life. Through guided projects and creative challenges, students will experiment, troubleshoot, and improve their designs—just like real engineers.

Theater: Summer Stage Spectacular – Full Day, Grades 4-8

Learn the choreography and song to a single number and perform it at the end of the week. Campers will also learn about acting techniques, set & prop design, costume creation, vocal techniques, and many more important aspects of theater.

Art: The Creative Corner – 1/2 Day, Grades 1-8

Each day will offer hands-on projects in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media. Participants will experiment with vibrant colors, dynamic textures, and innovative techniques. Celebrate your creative journey and take home cherished memories—and your own gallery-worthy artwork!

Photography:

Camp Photoventure – 1/2 Day, Grades 4-8

Discover the art of photography! Explore the scenic beauty of Camp Centerland, learn to capture stunning shots, and refine your skills in our computer lab with easy-to-use editing tools. Campers will create a personal collection of favorite photos to showcase in a vibrant end-of-camp gallery. Turn your creative vision into a masterpiece this summer!

Esports: Game On – 1/2 Day, Grades 1-8

Level up this summer! Dive into the exciting world of competitive gaming, where strategy, teamwork, and skill take center stage. Campers will explore popular games, learn advanced techniques, and develop leadership and communication skills through teambased challenges.

Fashion Lab NY: Fashion Design and Sewing – Full Day, Grades 3-6

Learn to machine sew, design, and style your own garments and accessories. Small group sizes ensure personalized instruction and hands-on support. The week ends with a Fashion Runway Show, where campers proudly showcase their creations for family and friends. No sewing experience needed—we teach everything from the start!

Fashion Lab NY: Fiber Art and Sewing – Full Day, Grades 3-6

Explore fiber arts through dyeing, printing, and embroidery, and turn custom fabrics into wearable fashion and accessories. Small groups allow for personalized guidance, and the week wraps up with a Fashion Show. No experience needed!

Fashion Lab NY: American Girl Doll Fashion Design – Full Day, Grades 3-6

Sketch out some ideas for 18” doll clothes on pattern templates and sew a cool custom garment for you and your doll from the pattern drawings. The week ends with a Fashion Runway Show for parents and friends. No sewing experience needed; we will teach you all you need to know!

Sports Conditioning Blast – 1/2 Day, Grades 5-9

This sports-centered obstacle course will enhance your overall speed, agility, and strength. Great for kids involved in a sport or who just want to improve their overall fitness level. This fun group-based activity will build upon the fundamental values of teamwork, cooperation, and sportsmanship.

Our annual Awesomesauce Day in memory of Gretchen Gross takes place each summer. She was fiercely dedicated to children and to the Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo, focusing her indomitable spirit into Camp Centerland, and as a mentor to our early childhood program. Gretchen was never without a camera in her hand, and loved to combine her passion for photography with her work for the community.

This year to celebrate Gretchen, the day will include an ice cream truck, tie-dyeing a commemorative item, bounce houses, photography by our own campers, art project, and more.

To donate to the Gretchen S. Gross Memorial Endowment, please contact Patty Simonson at 716.204.2073 or psimonson@jccbuffalo.org. August 14, 2026

Tour the Campgrounds

We’re thrilled to introduce you to Camp Centerland, nestled within the beautiful Irving M. Shuman Campgrounds. Discover the magic, adventure, and endless possibilities waiting for you here.

Reach out to us today to schedule your personalized tour and experience the charm of camp firsthand!