Camp Chai

For over 48 years, Laura has been part of Camp Chai and is returning as Camp Interim Director these next two summers as we head to our 50^th Celebration of Camp Chai.   Laura has guided generations of campers, staff and families through their camp experience with her belief often stated – “Camp is one of the MOST IMPORTANT experiences in a child’s life!!”

As Camp Director Emeritus these past years, Laura was a daily presence at carpool, morning & afternoon care, daily singing plus sharing Jewish values and Shabbat experiences every day and every week to all of our J camps.   Stepping over into the director role means taking on familiar “responsibilities” of guiding staff to provide the growing experience of camp and creating ways to assure her presence in the all areas of care for our children, staff and families.    Laura is ready, able and very excited to take on the challenge of bringing the traditions and celebration of Camp Chai to all.

Tara Ohayon has been a part of the Aaron Family Jewish Community Center in Dallas since she was three years old. She grew up at J camps, going on to work every summer while pursuing a degree in Special Education. She taught in the public schools before returning “home” to the J full time over twenty years ago. Tara is currently the Director of Early Childhood and a Camp Director, Supervisor of Youth/Teen Programming, and member of the J Agency Management Team. Tara has been recognized as a visionary director, gifted parent educator, worker with children and master trainer of staff. She has facilitated change and growth in her staff and believes in a coaching style of leadership. Tara believes that the foundation of her work begins with relationships and knows that each of us can make a difference in the lives of others. Tara loves that her children are now staff at camp!