The MaKoR Experience – Ramah’s Counselor in Training Program

Every great counselor starts somewhere, and at Ramah Boston, that journey begins with MaKoR (Madrichim K’tanim b’Ramah)!

Designed for campers entering 8th and 9th grade, MaKoR is our leadership and counselor-in-training program that gives participants the unique opportunity to experience camp in a whole new way. Throughout Weeks 1–4, MaKoR participants balanced the best of both worlds: enjoying all the fun of being campers while also stepping into leadership roles and learning what it takes to be an incredible counselor.

This summer, our MaKoR participants were paired with our youngest campers, helping lead activities, supporting counselors throughout the day, and quickly becoming role models. Whether they were helping a camper make a new friend, leading a game, or offering encouragement during an activity, they made a meaningful impact every day.

One of the biggest highlights of the program is the relationships they build. When asked about their favorite part of MaKoR, Ben shared, “My favorite part was bonding with the kids.” Eli echoed that sentiment, saying his favorite part was “connecting with kids you really wouldn’t get to talk to otherwise.” Those connections are what make MaKoR so special, giving participants the chance to discover the joy that comes from helping younger campers have an amazing summer.

In addition to working with campers, participants took part in leadership training designed to prepare them for future staff roles. Together, they explored what makes a great counselor, discussed how to lead with confidence and compassion, and practiced skills they’ll carry with them both at camp and beyond. When asked what values guide them while working with campers, they spoke about responsibility, safety, fun, trust, understanding, and meeting each camper where they are. Ben summed up his approach perfectly, saying he hopes to be “an older brother/friend” to the campers he works with.

Participants also reflected on how much they grew throughout the program. Aliza shared that one of her biggest takeaways was “learning to take initiative,” while others talked about learning to care for younger campers, manage a group alongside experienced counselors, and see camp from an entirely new perspective.

Watching our MaKoR participants grow in confidence over the first four weeks of camp has been incredible. They leave the program with stronger leadership skills, special friendships, and a newfound appreciation for the work our counselors do every day. For campers entering 8th or 9th grade, MaKoR serves as an opportunity to grow, give back to the camp community, and begin building the skills that will prepare them to become the next generation of Ramah Boston staff.

We can’t wait to see many of this summer’s MaKoR participants return in the years ahead, this time, wearing the staff shirt!