Fighting COVID One Shot at a Time
Autumn is always a great time for us at Camp Chi to reflect. With the recent winding down of our summer, the promise of a change of seasons, and the High Holidays, Autumn annually gives us much to think about. About 19 months into the pandemic, it is unfortunately hard for Covid not to be at the top of mind during these reflections. But we’d like to look at the positive side of things and consider all the beneficial things Chi and our community are doing to help keep ourselves and those around us safe.
To us, one of the most important factors in ensuring a safe and successful summer at Chi was getting as many people as possible in our Camp Chi Family vaccinated. In May and June, along with JCC Chicago, we hosted vaccination clinics for our campers, the first of which occurred mere days after the FDA approved vaccinating children as young as 12 years old. The clinics were a huge success, and many campers who were previously unable to obtain a vaccination were able to get their opportunity. The numbers speak for themselves, as we had ZERO Covid cases during our summer.
Along with those campers, we assisted 40 staff in getting vaccinated this summer. This includes both domestic and international staff, many of whom did not necessarily have access to vaccines in their home countries. There has always been a mutually beneficial exchange of values between camp and our international staff, as the cross-cultural learning is an invaluable benefit for both sides. This year, that win-win relationship took on another step with the vaccination opportunities. Providing safety and peace of mind to our international staff, and their friends and family, is a win for society and the world as a whole. Our international staff are as much a part of our Camp Chi family as anyone, and we’re honored to have been able to help out how we did.
We know there is more work to be done, more people to vaccinate, and we look forward to accomplishing those goals together. We wish you all a happy and healthy start to the New Year and encourage everyone to do their part in keeping themselves and those around them healthy and safe.