Youth Development
A variety of enriching environments to bring out strengths
The summer and afterschool hours present endless opportunities for developing life skills that are the foundation for a child’s future. Drawing on the timeless wisdom of Judaic culture, our multifaceted year-round programs instill universal values, stimulate the development of interpersonal competencies and bring out latent talents, interests and strengths.
I look up to him a lot because he always comes in with a positive attitude.
- Yehuda A.
Mentorships
Mentoring is the heart and soul of all our programs, and the underlying mission of all our staff and volunteers.
Our mentors keep in close contact with their mentees, developing a relationship that lasts for years. Mentors often become friends of the family, becoming part of the mentee’s life throughout the year. If a mentor encounters a situation beyond his or her expertise, our experienced outreach counselors are available at any time for consultation and advice. We provide this precious asset for each of our children, and it is the key to their success.
Fun Fact!
We have over 1,650 volunteer mentors in our network.
I love it with a HUGE passion cuz the campers & staff make you feel so extremely happy.
- Josh C, Camper
Summer Camp and Year Round Events
Summer camps have a positive impact on a child. Kars for Kids affords this opportunity to hundreds of children at TheZone’s two state-of-the-art campuses in the scenic Catskill Mountains. With an incredibly low camper-to-staff ratio, our volunteers are able to tailor their care to each child’s needs, fostering a warm, magical atmosphere every day. Stimulating workshops, an equestrian program and interaction with TheZone’s farm animals and nature program allow children to develop latent skills. Traditional celebrations and cultural experiences introduce campers to their rich Jewish heritage. With its authentic flavor, Shabbat is the highlight of every week. Personal mentorship, fun activities, trips and resort amenities all combine for the perfect unforgettable summer camp experience. And the magic of camp continues throughout the year with frequent reunions and staff keeping in touch on a regular basis.
Fun Fact!
Our camp kitchen churns out over 150,000 meals during one summer.
It is the highlight of my daughter’s week. She also looks up to the group leaders who are such wonderful role models!
- A ChillZone attendee's mom
Extracurricular Programs & Youth Groups
With dozens of locations across North America, our ChillZone program draws hundreds of children every week. Unstructured afterschool hours can be a dangerous time for children who may become involved in risky activities, but we see these hours as an opportunity to give youth positive experiences. Our youth groups provide children and teens with a fun, safe environment to learn, bond and grow with friends. Warm mentors on staff create a comfortable environment where all feel welcomed. Pizza, prizes and fun, educational activities make these hours enjoyable, but it’s often the chance to just hang out with older mentors that keeps kids coming back week after week.
Visit the Chillzone site
The experience they have here is developing them to be giant leaders of the future.
- Rafi, Program Coordinator
Volunteer Leadership Development
Today's youth are tomorrow's leaders. With proper guidance and direction, each one has the potential to change the world. Kars4Kids is training and inspiring a legion of dedicated teen volunteers who are the power supply of all our programs. With our experienced backup and support, these volunteers are honing their leadership and team-building skills as they develop into leaders in their communities.