a non-profit summer day camp for refugee children
Teen Volunteers
Did you know that Camp Nefesh was founded by a teenager? This teenager who grew up learning about Jewish values and the concept of tikkun olam (improving the world) was passionate about immigrant and refugee rights as well as youth empowerment. After volunteering at a similar summer camp in Seattle through Mitzvah Corps, a social justice trip at the culmination of her 10th grade Confirmation experience at Congregation B’nai Israel, this teen brought the idea to Sacramento. With the support of Congregation B’nai Israel’s Rabbi and Director of Education, she made Camp Nefesh a reality. We want to keep Camp Nefesh teen-run and led in order to inspire other teenagers to take action for what they believe in as well. We are always on the lookout for teenagers who want to be leaders and volunteers at Camp Nefesh. If you'd like to help in a way that isn't listed below, feel free to contact us! To work with us throughout the year, join our teen planning committee. To work with us during the Summer, please scroll down to view our Summer positions.
Year round Opportunities
Teen Planning Committee
We need help from community teens who are interested in taking on leadership roles at Camp Nefesh. If you want to gain leadership and work experience, advocate for and assist the refugee and immigrant community, volunteer for a great cause, and more, the teen planning committee is a great opportunity for you! As part of the teen planning committee, you'll get the opportunity to collaborate with other teenagers to plan activities, coordinate volunteers, publicize, and more that happens behind the scenes to make Camp Nefesh a success! Please email tpc@campnefesh.com to learn more and join!
Summer Positions
Camp Details
Camp Nefesh 2025 will be on June 16-20, 23-27, at Congregation B'nai Israel (3600 Riverside Blvd Sacramento, CA 95818). Please look below for our positions for the summer. Our application is currently not available but keep an eye out for updates.
Counselors
We are looking for teen counselors to supervise, lead, and be role models for our campers. Counselors will be expected to run and assist with activities, with children of varying ages. Upon receiving your application and resume, you will be contacted to be interviewed for the position.
Special Helpers
Do you want to help out Camp Nefesh, but don't really know exactly what you'd like to help with? We can always use extra hands to help with activities, set up and clean up, in the kitchen, and more! If you're interested in being a special helper, please apply, and designate this on your application. Upon receiving your application and resume, you will be contacted via email for an interview.