As the former International Sh’licha, BBG Vice President of Jewish Enrichment (community service, social action, and Jewish heritage), I had the privilege of returning to B’nai B’rith Perlman Camp for a second time. This summer as the coordinator of International Kallah, BBYO’s explorative Jewish identity program, I had the unique opportunity to mentor teen participants, sharing the BBYO wisdom that was passed down to me throughout my time as a BBG. Seeing campers grow as leaders amongst their peers was inspiring—particularly during Shabbat to Remember, a Perlman tradition. Shabbat to Remember is a two-day Shabbaton during Kallah, during which BBYO hosts nearly a dozen Holocaust survivors who come to share their stories, allowing teens to bear witness to the atrocities of the Holocaust so we, too can share their stories, and better understand the resilience of the Jewish people. Throughout Shabbat participants assumed a multitude of leadership positions including leading and facilitating Shabbat services, serving as in-house photographers, and managing the logistics for the weekend. In less than 48 hours, it truly felt as though every Survivor became a BBYO grandparent, instilling the Kallah community with a deepened appreciation for our heritage. Shabbat to Remember is a powerful experience, and its impact felt magnified by our BBYO Movement; it’s in moments like these where I feel unequivocally confident in (and very excited) about a vibrant Jewish future. I’m so grateful for the time I spent with Alephs and BBGs and will treasure our summer of Perlman magic that I experienced alongside them.

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