From its beginning in 1990, Washington Hebrew Congregation's early childhood summer programs, Camp Keetov and In The Beginning, have earned a reputation of excellence in both programming and preschool camping.  Our directors, Maxine Perlmutter at the Potomac campus and Lynne Bluestein at the Washington campus, have been with the program since its inception and each has more than 30 years of early childhood experience.  Both directors are always on-site and available to parents and campers. 

Who are our campers?

Camp Keetov, Washington Hebrew Congregation's exciting summer program for young children, is held at both the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center (JBSC) in Potomac, Maryland and at the Temple in Washington, DC. Children who currently attend our preschools or are registered for preschool for the 2008-2009 school year are eligible to enroll in our camps at the JBSC. Enrollment in camp at our Temple is open to these children as well as the general community.
 

Who are our counselors?

We provide your child a fun-filled summer in a safe, warm and caring environment under the enthusiastic leadership of a mature and professional staff. Each group is supervised by adult group leaders, supported by well trained, responsible counselors. All staff participate in an extensive orientation as well as training throughout the summer. A low staff/camper ratio assures that each child receives the attention he or she deserves.  Our group leaders and specialists bring to their roles their talents, love of children and extensive experience in early childhood education. 

How do we keep our campers safe?

Camper health and safety is of utmost importance at Camp Keetov.  We are licensed by the Maryland State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services at the JBSC and by the District of Columbia at the Temple. We maintain fully-equipped health rooms at both locations. Camp at the JBSC also employees a full-time registered nurse who consults, as needed, with camp at the Temple. Members of our staff at both locations have first aid certification and CPR training.  All staff have criminal background checks completed by the FBI and as applicable, the State of Maryland or District of Columbia.  Washington Hebrew Congregation also provides full-time security personnel at both locations.

Our goal

Our goal is for every camper to wake up each morning excited to come to camp and ready for fun, and for you, their parents, to be confident that your child is enjoying a quality day camp program!