SCOTCH PLAINS – CampYachad and the JCC of Central New Jersey are proud to share that Camp Director Shira Gladstone has been appointed to the American Camp Association, New York & New Jersey (ACA NY/NJ) Board of Directors.
ACA NY/NJ’s mission is to preserve, promote, and enhance the quality of the summer camp experience – and its board is made up of some of the most experienced and dedicated professionals in the field. Shira is a natural fit.
With more than 25 years in the camp world, including nearly a decade in leadership roles at Camp Yachad, Shira brings deep experience, passion, and perspective to this role. A proudly “entrenched” Jewish camp professional, she understands firsthand the transformative power of camp.
As a member of the ACA board, Shira will help shape the future of camping across the region. She joins a team of leaders responsible for guiding ACA NY/NJ’s direction, advancing key initiatives like staff training and accreditation, and making high-level decisions that impact camps, families, and communities throughout the region.
This appointment is a natural next step for someone who so fully embraces the magic and meaning of camp. As Shira puts it, “There is nothing more powerful than a summer at camp – simple as that. It builds confidence, connection, and a true sense of belonging that lasts far beyond the summer, and I feel incredibly lucky to witness that impact year after year.” She adds, “I’m honored to serve on the ACA NY/NJ Board and collaborate with fellow camp professionals to strengthen and elevate the camp experience for every child and staff member in our area.”
From her early days as a counselor to her leadership today, Shira’s well-rounded experience makes her a strong advocate for camps, staff, and families alike. In her new role, she will also represent ACA NY/NJ at major industry events like the Tri-State Camp Conference and serve as an ambassador for the organization in the broader community.
This recognition is a testament to Shira’s expertise, leadership, and commitment to the camp profession. It is also a proud moment for Camp Yachad and the JCC of Central New Jersey – an affirmation of the impact our camp and our people are making far beyond our own community.
For more information about Camp Yachad or the JCC of Central NJ visit www.jccnj.org.
The JCC of Central New Jersey is located at 1391 Martine Avenue in Scotch Plains. The JCC of Central New Jersey is a constituent agency of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ, United Way of Greater Union County and the Westfield United Fund. Financial assistance is available for membership and various programs.
