After months of planning and preparation, Gan Menachem officially opened its doors this week, welcoming more than 750 talmidim for an exciting summer of learning, growth, and fun.

Under the leadership of Rabbi Mendel Levin of the Yeshivas Kayitz Gan Menachem (Cheder Division) and Mrs. Mussie Begun of the Gan Menachem Kiddie Camp (Preschool Division), campers arrived on the first day with smiles, excitement, and anticipation for the weeks ahead.

Yeshivas Kayitz Gan Menachem’s unique approach combines a true yeshivah atmosphere with a vibrant summer experience. Each morning begins with davening and learning, with many campers continuing with the same rebbeim they had throughout the school year. In the afternoons, campers enjoy a full program led by dedicated rebbeim and counselors featuring sports, crafts, activities, baking, shows, and special events. By combining strong chinuch with a dynamic camp program, the Gan Menachem experience is geared toward helping each camper grow, succeed, and have fun.

Gan Menachem Kiddie Camp offers a similarly enriching experience for the yeshiva’s youngest campers. This summer, in honor of the 50th anniversary of Mivtza Chinuch, the program features a specially designed curriculum centered around the Rebbe’s Twelve Pesukim. Each week focuses on a different possuk, with learning brought to life through hands-on activities, projects, songs, and themed experiences. The result is a warm, engaging environment where campers enjoy a summer filled with fun while developing a deeper connection to Torah and Yiddishkeit. 

A highlight of the summer program is Gan Menachem’s expanded water activities at the Mesivta Campus on Remsen. Transformed into an in-house water park, the campus features giant inflatable water slides, bounce houses with sprinklers, and a variety of exciting water attractions. Campers enjoy hours of refreshing fun in a safe, supervised environment, making it one of the most anticipated parts of the summer experience. 

The opening day got off to a memorable start with a lively magic show that had campers captivated and cheering throughout the performance.

“The magic show was a perfect way to launch the summer,” Rabbi Mendel Levin reflected. “Seeing hundreds of boys laughing, cheering, and enjoying themselves together created an incredible atmosphere and set the tone for what we hope will be an unforgettable summer.” 

One parent remarked, “Everything was so organized. From arrival to dismissal, it was clear how much thought and preparation went into every detail.”

Gan Menachem is also proud to welcome children of shluchim from around the world who spend their summers in Crown Heights. For many of these children, camp provides a special opportunity to build friendships with frum peers their own age and enjoy a summer immersed in a vibrant Torah environment. They were warmly welcomed into the Gan Menachem family from the very first day.

Mrs. Mussie Begun, Director of Gan Menachem Kiddie Camp, shared, “Today was a wonderful start to our summer. Hundreds of smiling campers jumped right into exciting activities, learning, and new friendships. We’re excited to be embarking on another incredible summer filled with Chassidishkeit, growth, and fun for every camper.” 

Photos: Yossi Fajnland