After more than 10 years of dedication to The J, DD Gass, director of camps and school-age services, has announced her retirement.
In the past decade, both J Camp and school-age programs, which include after school care and vacation days, have seen considerable growth under her leadership.
In her honor, The J is launching the DD Gass Camp Endowment for Special Projects. The funds will be directed to special projects within J Camp, and The J will match all contributions dollar for dollar. Those who have felt a positive impact through Gass’ work overseeing J Camp and other programming are welcome to donate to the endowment by visiting thejkc.org/campendowment.
“DD has been an integral part of our community, and her leadership has been instrumental in creating a nurturing and joyful environment that embodies the values and spirit of The J,” said Carly Stein, chief operating officer of The J. “While we are excited for her as she embarks on her next chapter, we will miss the impact she has made on the lives of countless children in our community.”
Over the years, J Camp has thrived under Gass’ leadership. During her tenure, J Camp grew from 458 to 863 individual campers. In addition to growth, Gass focused on retention, both of campers as they got older and after they had ‘aged out’ of the program itself. This was done by adding new programs, including a kosher culinary camp, STEM and LEGO camps for older campers and the Leaders In Training (LIT) program.
“I don’t want them to go to other camps in the area as they get older,” Gass said. “I want to support our campers by providing diverse options to them, allowing them to be active here at The J.”
The LIT program allows 14-15 year olds who want to volunteer at camp to participate in the years between being a camper and a counselor. This program, which had 60 participants this year, is designed to help develop leadership skills and set them up for success in future years. Many return to work as paid counselors for years to come.
New and renovated spaces for camp and school-age children have been built and opened, allowing Gass and her team to provide the best possible experience for their attendees. This summer, the Merna & Sylvan Siegler Family Pavilion and Reat’s Place – Corporon Family Amphitheater were fully open for J Camp to use, as were the newly renovated after-school rooms, which allow for more flexibility and space throughout the year.
Gass led the camp program through the COVID-19 pandemic, anticipating staff and camper needs through rapidly changing conditions. Since COVID, camp has recovered to its highest numbers ever.
Gass has committed to staying on board until her replacement is found. As her time comes to a close, she has already seen an outpouring of support from campers and their families from the past decade.
“I’ve been so touched by the people who have reached out to me since making this announcement,” she said. “It’s incredibly humbling to hear about the positive impact I’ve made on their children’s lives in my time working at The J.”
A retirement celebration will be planned for later this fall, during which the endowment fund proceeds will be announced. All are welcome to attend, and more details will be available soon.
