Bethany Leinweber, Camp Yonnie/Youth Engagement Director
We know you miss your grandchildren. We know your kids are busy, and maybe hesitant about the cost or logistics of summer camp. We know the distance can make it hard.
What if you could have quality time with your grandkids, give your children a well-deserved break, and give your grandchildren an unforgettable Jewish summer experience: full of fun, friendship, and Jewish pride?
Camp Yonnie is more than just a summer day camp, it’s a warm, joyful, and spirited Jewish community right here in Sarasota. At Camp Yonnie there is something for every one. Our campers celebrate Shabbat together, sing Hebrew songs, enjoy dancing, swim, go on field trips, do arts & crafts, play all sports, engage in STEM activities, cooking, and make friendships that last long after the summer ends.
Camp Yonnie is a great gift for grandparents to give to the younger generation. It’s also the perfect reason to see your grandkids this summer!
Things We Hear from Grandparents, and Our Answers
“My kids can’t take off work.”
That’s okay! Give them a break while you get the grandkids. They can work without worry, and you get special mornings, evenings, and weekends together, while Camp Yonnie fills their days with joy, learning, and fun.
“They don’t trust us with the kids for that long.”
No problem; trust Camp Yonnie! Your grandkids will be in a safe, structured, and loving Jewish environment all day. We’re experienced and care for each camper like family.
“We just miss our grandkids so much.”
Then bring them to you! Fly them down for a week or two, and let Camp Yonnie handle the daytime adventures while you enjoy every other precious moment together.
“It’s hard to entertain them all day.”
That’s what we’re here for! From sports to STEAM to Judaic enrichment, we’ll keep them active, happy, and tired out by dinner time.
“I want them to do something Jewish.”
Perfect! At Camp Yonnie, Judaism is woven into every day: from Jewish values, blessings, and kindness to song and community. It’s a place where kids proudly connect to their heritage and meet other Jewish children.
“They’re not ready for Jewish sleepaway camp.”
That’s exactly why Camp Yonnie is ideal: a Jewish day camp experience full of “ruach,” spirit, and connection, close to home and family.
This past summer, we welcomed three sets of grandchildren from across the country, all visiting their Sarasota grandparents for a week of Camp Yonnie magic. Everyone loved it! The kids came home smiling (and tired!), the grandparents cherished every evening and weekend, and the parents were thrilled their kids were having a meaningful, Jewish, and safe experience.
Wendy Harman Yader, a Sarasota grandparent shares, “We are all so excited to be returning to Camp Yonnie this summer. Last summer, we brought our grandkids from California to stay with us for a few weeks and go to camp with their cousins who live in Sarasota. What a treat for everyone! I got all my grandkids together and all the cousins got to go to camp together. The parents were delighted to have their children together, too!”
We offer flexible scheduling for visiting families: one week, two weeks, or a full session.
Give them a reason to visit. Give them a Jewish summer to remember. Give them Camp Yonnie.
For more information email info@campyonnie.org