The Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Road, is a burgeoning campground these days, and more than 260 kids ages 5 to 14 are taking full advantage of it.
The JCC's Camp "J" is a series of two-week day camps held at the center through Aug. 6. They cover myriad activities including aquatics, arts, cooking, dance, drama, music and science.
It's a mixture of good times and good experiences.
"It's fun, but they learn about their environment. They're having a learning experience at the same time," said Scott Zorn, director of children, youth and camping services for the JCC.
"Everything's a teachable moment."
Last Thursday the campers got a visit by four rangers from Saguaro National Park West's Teacher to Ranger to Teacher program. Along with a slide-show and coloring supplies, the youngsters got a lesson on distinguishing predators from prey courtesy of several animal skulls.
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Ann Gonzalez, a fourth-grade teacher in the Sunnyside Unified School District and a third-year participant in the TRT program, was one of the rangers giving the kids insight into the world around them.
"I love this. I love working with children when they're not under pressure. I love working when I'm not under pressure," she said.
The next two-week session of Camp "J" begins July 12. Membership to the JCC is required to enroll in the camps and the center offers a "flex" membership as well as scholarships and other financial aid to help parents get their children involved.
Zorn estimates the camp could efficiently provide for more than 500 campers and said it is open to all comers, regardless of faith or mental or physical ability.
If You Go
What: Tucson Jewish Community Center's Camp "J."
Where: Tucson Jewish Community Center, 3800 E. River Road.
When: Through Aug. 6.
Cost: Varies; call 299-3000 or go to www.tucsonjcc.org for more information.
