About Us

Camp Gan Israel Poway is located at Chabad of Poway. 

16934 Chabad Way, Poway, CA 92064

Our mission at CGI is clear: “Make the world a better place!” By doing acts of goodness and kindness we can change the world.

8 REASONS CGI POWAY IS YOUR KIDS’ BEST CHOICE!

1. We offer a wide variety of fun and educational activities and programs.
2. We are all about “good old fashioned fun”!
3. We are a small camp “where everybody knows your name”.
4. We do not charge extra for field trips.
5. Our campers feel like BIG fish in a small pond vs. small fish in a BIG pond.
6. CGI offers an optional Kosher Hot Lunch.
7. Our prices beat most other Jewish camps in the area.
8. Jewish pride is our middle name!

Camp Gan Izzy’s directors, Rabbi Mendy and Bluma Rubenfeld have been youth directors and educators in Poway for the past 19 years. Seeing the need for a Jewish summer program in the Poway area, they started CGI in the summer of 2009 . Rabbi Mendy and Bluma have 6 children of their own, ages 5-19. They are passionate about the positive impact a great day camp experience can provide for Jewish kids and teens. Together they are a dynamic duo! Rabbi Mendy and Bluma are veteran counselors with over 31 years of summer camp experience. As a teenager, Rabbi Mendy was awarded the prestigious “Counselor of the Year” at Camp Gan Israel overnight camp in Parksville, NY.

Child development is the most significant ingredient in a healthy camp experience. This is why our staff is the real secret to our success. Our experienced counselors are known for their personal warmth and ability to care for each child as an individual. Many staff members return year after year, lending experience and continuity to CGI’s programs. Each counselor is a role model for our children, providing them guidance and friendship.

Our counselors and junior counselors are energetic, caring, responsible and are all CPR certified. They all love being at CGI and their favorite part is……the kids, of course! To apply to be a counselor, you must be 17 years or older. To apply to be a Junior counselor you must be 14 years or older.

 Camp Gan Izzy is well known for our “Trip Days” geared to our campers’ interests. A few times each week, campers take “Trip Days” to visit local attractions in San Diego.  Whether it be laser tag, Sesame Place or Sea World, field trips are always a highlight at CGI.

Campers are transported on our camp bus and driven by our certified bus driver, Rabbi Mendy.