When Malki Peskin (nee: Silverman) and Zack Peskin, first met at Camp Moshava I.O., they were 14-years-old and spending their summers like so many other Jewish kids their age at camp. Neither could have imagined that those formative summers in Honesdale, Pennsylvania would become the foundation of a relationship that would span decades, lead to marriage, and eventually bring them back to the very same camp as the parents of three children.  

But such is the magic of Jewish summer camp. Just like it was for the Peskins, it plays a crucial role for so many, providing a safe and welcoming environment where identities as proud Jews are built and special bonds are forged forever. 

To help make these life-changing experiences possible, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia provides Jewish day and overnight camps, such as Camp Moshava I.O., with need-based scholarships, incentive funding and security resources.

Between Fiscal Year 2025 and 2026, the Jewish Federation granted over $10,000 to Camp Moshava I.O. The camp also receives annual security training from the Jewish Federation in partnership with the Security Community Network (SCN) – the official safety and security organization for the Jewish community in North America.

“Having partners like the Jewish Federation helps us ensure that everyone who wants to attend camp can be a part of this truly amazing experience,” said Associate Director Shlomo Stern of Camp Moshava I.O.

This summer, the Jewish Federation awarded $703,000 in need-based aid and incentive scholarships to 47 Jewish day and overnight camps.

“The Jewish Federation embodies the value of l'dor v'dor, from generation to generation, by ensuring that financial barriers don’t stand between a child and passing down that transformative Jewish experience,” said the organization’s Major Gifts Officer Noah Schoenberg, adding, “Summer camp is where Jewish identity comes alive.”

Malki Peskin and Zack Peskin know firsthand how Jewish summer camps can create formative experiences that guide the rest of someone’s life. And in their case, two people’s lives.

"I really met a ton of people," Zack Peskin recalled. "Being able to expand my friendships was so important for me. I definitely credit a lot to my camping experience."

Malki Peskin echoed the sentiment: “Camp became really important for me socially. I made so many friends from different places.”

Initially, when Malki Peskin and Zack Peskin met, they were just friends. Over the years, through camp summers, year-round events, and a shared Israel experience with the Bnei Akiva movement, their connection deepened and they eventually began dating in high school.

Malki Peskin and Zack Peskin at Camp Moshava, I.O. as teens.

The couple credits the camp for not only introducing them to each other, but also for establishing shared values that continue to guide their family today: such as prioritizing Jewish life, community involvement and connection to Israel.

"Camp is a time where Judaism becomes part of who you are," Malki Peskin shared. "In school you're learning about it, but at camp you're living it. It's part of your friendships, your activities, and your everyday experiences. Camp helped shape who I was and where I felt I belonged in the world as a Jewish kid."

Today, the couple's oldest daughter, Lea, 10, is attending Camp Moshava I.O. for her second summer. Last year, the Peskins received a One Happy Camper grant from the Jewish Federation. In partnership with the Foundation for Jewish Day Camp, One Happy Camper is an incentive program that provides funding of up to $1,000 to any child attending nonprofit Jewish overnight camps for the first time.

In addition to Lea, the Peskins are parents to Mikey, 7, and Abby, 3 – all of whom attend Caskey Torah Academy, which receives funding from the Jewish Federation, and go to Lower Merion Synagogue together as a family.

Returning to camp for family events has been especially meaningful.

"It was such a full-circle moment," Malki Peskin said. "Even though we've been together for so many years and there's so much more to our relationship than just camp, it will always be a really big part of it."

Like many parents, sending a child to overnight camp for the first time came with a mix of excitement and nervousness. They even developed a special signal with their daughter: if she appeared in a camp photo and was having a great time, she would flash a peace sign.

When the photos started appearing, so did the peace signs.

"Just being able to see our daughter have the same type of experience that we had, that's something I'll always remember," reflected Zack Peskin.

Malki Peskin added, "I would love a world where every Jewish kid could have that experience.”

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Since 1901, the Jewish Federation has mobilized financial and volunteer resources to address the communities’ most critical priorities: Caring for Those in Need Locally, Supporting Israel and Global Jewry, and Securing a Vibrant Jewish Future. This includes organizations that fight food insecurity for the community-at-large and Holocaust Survivors.

To learn more about the Jewish Federation’s impact and our grantees, visit jewishphilly.org/impact.