One Very Happy Camper

In memory of Julius Eisen z”l  

On Tuesday, the Jewish people observed Tisha B’Av (9th day of Av), a solemn day on the Jewish calendar during which we mourn the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem and other tragedies which have befallen our people. This year, our thoughts certainly focused on October 7th as well.

This week, our community also suffered another loss – this one very personal to me, our organization, and the entire field of Jewish camp – as we bid farewell to a true prince among us – Julius “Julie” Eisen z”l. 

Julie was a mensch in every sense of the word, a ray of sunshine who embodied the spirit of community in every fiber of his being. We lost not just a valued colleague and cherished friend, but the heart and soul of our community – a one-of-a-kind happy camper.

In organizational life, it has always been about the people – the ones around the table who lead with both vision and compassion. Julie first took his seat at the Foundation for Jewish Camp’s (FJC) table in 2004, and over the past two decades, he did much more than simply occupy that space. He infused it with his boundless optimism, curiosity and creativity, and an infectious positivity that lifted us all.

Julie wasn’t just part of our board; he was the heartbeat of our mission, a constant reminder of why we do what we do. In the early days, Julie became our #1 ambassador for communities becoming partners in our campership incentive program, which became One Happy Camper®. He knew that getting more kids to choose Jewish camp would ultimately help secure a more joyous and vibrant Jewish future.

Following the pain and loss observed on Tisha b’Av, we immediately transition to seeking comfort…leading to Tu’b’Av, (15th day of Av), traditionally celebrated as the Jewish day of love. And that is exactly how we mourn our Julie – moving from grief and sadness from his loss to basking in the light and love he brought to our work.

Each of us know someone special who inspires, motivates, and supports us in our work.  Julie played that role for me and for our Foundation. Julie embodied renewal, generosity, and menschlichkeit and remains a sterling model for us all. We will carry forward his unwavering belief in the power of camp, the joy it brings, and the lives it transforms.

Julie Eisen was, and will always be, our very happy camper. May his memory forever serve as a blessing to his family, friends, and community, and may we all strive to bring more light into the world in his merit and honor.