What We Do

One Happy Camper

Thanks to the generosity of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, first-time campers from the Greater Dallas area who attend any Jewish overnight camp are eligible for a One Happy Camper incentive grant of up to $1,000.

Why One Happy Camper?

We invest in One Happy Camper because we believe in the magic of Jewish overnight camp. All kids deserve the adventure that comes with independence, spiritual growth, and life-long friendships. With over 160 nonprofit Jewish overnight camps, including URJ Greene Family Camp, Camp Young Judea Texas, Camp Sabra, Camp Nageela Midwest, and Camp Ramah Darom, families can find the camp that’s right for their child.

The impact of Jewish overnight camp is immediate and enduring. Campers return home connected to a community and friends that will last them a lifetime. And it doesn’t stop there. Children with pivotal Jewish camp experiences are more likely to become adults who value their Jewish heritage, support Jewish causes, and take on leadership roles in their communities.

Testimonials
  • “If it wasn’t for these grant opportunities, my child would not have been able to attend.”

Stats & Facts

  • 55 Campers attended camp in 2023 thanks to support from Federation
  • 87% of OHC recipients return to camp for a second summer
  • 7 out of 10 young Jewish leaders in their 20s and 30s attended Jewish summer camp

More for Families

  • Dallas Jewish Community Foundation (Summer Camp Scholarships)

    Learn More
  • Jewish Children's Regional Service (Overnight Camp Scholarships funded by JFGD)

    Learn More
  • Dallas Hebrew Free Loan Association (Interest Free Loans for Jewish Experiences)

    Learn More
  • Foundation for Jewish Camp (Additional Scholarship Opportunities for Overnight Camp)

    Learn More

FAQs

Who is eligible?

  • Must be a first-time overnight camper*
  • Must be entering grades 1-12 (after camp)
  • Do not attend Jewish day school or yeshiva (why is that?)
  • Attending a nonprofit, Jewish, overnight camp (find a camp)
  • *Campers who previously attended camp for 11 days or less are still eligible to apply

Will I need to submit financial information?

No! One Happy Camper grants are incentive grants. They are neither need-based nor merit-based. Our goal is to help encourage every Jewish child to try out a Jewish overnight camp.

Who receives the funding?

Payment is made directly to the overnight Jewish summer camp on behalf of each One Happy Camper recipient.

Can more than one child per family apply for a grant?

Yes, see below for details on the amount per camper.

How much is the grant?

  • $1,000 grant if enrolled for 19+ consecutive days
  • $700 grant if enrolled for 12-18 consecutive days
  • Siblings of campers who previously received a grant or are receiving the grant this year are eligible to receive $500 when they attend camp for the first time for at least 12 consecutive days

Where can I learn more?

You can learn more at: https://www.onehappycamper.org/ or by reaching out to Sarah Katz at skatz@jewishdallas.org.