Setup 🔗

Divide the campers into teams of 8-10. Assign a team leader for each team and make sure they understand their role, which will include organizing and leading their team, collecting and documenting proof of completion of each mitzvah, and reporting back to the judges at the end of the program. Provide each team with a list of mitzvot (good deeds) they can complete and the corresponding point value for each mitzvah. The mitzvot can be a mix of physical, social, and intellectual tasks that can be done on-site and take minimal preparation.

Example of mitzvot: 🔗

• Organize a clean-up campaign around the campground (5 points)
• Create and distribute care packages for the camp staff (10 points)
• Host a game or trivia night for younger campers (15 points)
• Create and present a workshop on the importance of recycling (20 points)
• Organize a talent show or open mic night for the campers (25 points)

Execution 🔗

At the beginning of the summer, conduct a pre-activity briefing. This can include a reminder of the Jewish values associated with the mitzvot, an explanation of the point system and the rules of the competition. Teams will have the entire summer to complete as many mitzvot as possible. They can work on these tasks during free time, or as part of scheduled activities. Team leaders should document their team’s progress and collect any necessary signatures or proof of completion. A leaderboard will be displayed in a visible location where all teams can track their point standings throughout the summer.

Conclusion 🔗

At the end of the summer camp, teams will gather to present their completed mitzvot and the points they’ve earned. A panel of judges (can be the camp counselors or the director) will review and verify the teams’ accomplishments. The team with the most points will win a prize.

Reflection 🔗

After the conclusion of the program, conduct a reflection session. This can include a discussion of the experiences and the impact of the mitzvot, and how it relates to the Jewish values. Encourage campers to think about how they can continue to perform good deeds in their daily lives even after the camp is over.

Additional Tips 🔗

• Make sure to get permission from the organizations or people you plan to visit before the activity.
• Provide all the necessary materials for the mitzvot such as paper, pencils, and any other tools.
• Consider providing a small token of appreciation for the organization or people the campers will be visiting as a way of showing gratitude.
• Take photos of the campers during the activity, these can be shared with the parents or used in the camp’s social media or newsletter
• Encourage campers to come up with their own mitzvot ideas and get approval from the staff before starting the task
• Make sure to inform the campers that the points are not only for winning the prize but also for showing the impact they made on the community.