From Spain to SAC: Reflections from this Summer at Sephardic Adventure Camp

Four years ago, I arrived at Sephardic Adventure Camp (SAC) not just as a counselor—but as someone in search of a deeper connection. My name is Noa Levy, I’m originally from Spain, and I now live in London. My journey to SAC began long before I ever packed my duffel bag or boarded a plane.

Years ago, the Spanish Jewish community had a special agreement with SAC: counselors from Spain would come and be part of the camp experience. My older brother was one of them, and his stories made a lasting impression on me. Even though that official program ended with changes in leadership, I never forgot about SAC. I asked my brother to connect me with the new camp director, and before I knew it, I was on my way to camp as a B1 Mom—offering love and support to our youngest campers.

From the very first day, SAC felt like family. It reminded me of home in ways I hadn’t expected. As someone who is Sephardic on both sides of my family, the focus on Sephardic roots at camp gave me a powerful sense of belonging. At the same time, I met campers and counselors from all over—Seattle, Canada, South Africa, and across the U.S. The diversity, the warmth, the genuine curiosity everyone has for each other’s backgrounds—it’s what makes this place magic. You show up, and it doesn’t matter if you’re brand new. You’re immediately one of us.

Being at SAC means learning and teaching. In Spain, Jewish education tends to be more general—we don’t always get to dive into Sephardic-specific heritage, language, or history. But here, I’ve found a piece of my identity that I didn’t even know was missing. SAC is the only camp I’ve ever seen that weaves Sephardic culture into every part of the experience—not just as a theme, but as a living, breathing community value.

This year was supposed to be extra special. I had been planning with Kenny, our amazing camp director, to return as Head Girl’s Counselor. At the same time, I’m studying psychology and on the path to becoming a therapist, so we arranged for me to also work in Camper Care alongside our social worker. It was the perfect blend—leadership and connection, responsibility and growth.

But then life happened.

Just days before camp, I was in Israel for a wedding that got canceled due to the outbreak of war with Iran. My priority immediately shifted—how do I get out and how do I still make it to SAC? Through the help of the Spanish Embassy, I traveled with a group of fellow Spaniards via Jordan and then flew on a military plane to Madrid. I landed on a Friday and somehow managed to rebook a flight for Monday. All of my camp gear was left behind in Israel. I had to repurchase everything. Still, I made it.

When I arrived, no one could believe I had come. To be honest, neither could I. But the moment I stepped into camp, I was greeted with hugs, smiles, and pure love. People had messaged me while I was still in Israel—“We miss you,” “We’re so sad you can’t make it.” Those small messages meant everything. That’s the essence of SAC: you are seen, you are valued, you are family.

Because I arrived late, my role shifted entirely to Camper Care. I’ll admit, I was a bit disappointed not to serve as Head Counselor. But I also feel incredibly fortunate to be here, doing meaningful work that aligns with my passion for mental health. It’s amazing that SAC prioritizes not just the well-being of the campers, but also the emotional health of the staff. I’m learning so much and giving all I can—and I couldn’t ask for more.

And when the opportunity presented itself, I also stepped in to support the CIT girls’ bunk—offering guidance, support, and care to this unique and dynamic group of young leaders. It’s been so rewarding to help shape their experience, and I’m grateful to be trusted with that responsibility.

I’ve always believed that everything happens for a reason. This journey—however unpredictable—was meant to be. SAC continues to grow, and it’s my mission to help it expand. Last year, I brought two counselors and a camper from Spain. This year, I brought another counselor. I want the world to know about this special place. It’s not just a summer camp. It’s a place of identity, education, and legacy for the Sephardic community.

The team here is phenomenal—competent, passionate, proactive. You never feel like you’re on your own. We support each other, and that transforms the work into joy. It doesn’t feel like a job. 

It feels like purpose.

So here I am, halfway across the world from home—but exactly where I belong.