On Saturday, October 19th, 2024, we gathered under the stars and the sukkah at the JLA for Habonim Dror Camp Gilboa's 2nd annual fundraiser, Stories Under the Sukkah, a Moth-style storytelling event. The magical evening honored Julie Macht, who helped shape Gilboa over the years. The guests shared food, hearty laughter, memories, and enjoyed hilarious stories around the theme “Machaneh Mischief.”
We are thrilled to share that the event raised close to $35,000 (and counting!), funds which will go directly to ensuring that Gilboa continues to grow and thrive. It’s not too late to donate! You can still contribute in honor of Julie and Camp Gilboa here.
Our lineup of storytellers included current campers Sebastian Buchler, Pearle and Gemma Macht, board member and camper parent Michal Lemberger, alum Livvy Mullen, camper parent and Julie’s sister-in-law Susan Mitnick, actor Michael D. Cohen, and storyteller Carlos Kotkin. The highlight, however, was Julie's children—Eliza, Isaiah, Otto, and Ruby Beenhouwer—who led Havdalah and shared personal and touching tributes that captured her lasting impact on the Gilboa community.
For 45 years, Julie has been involved in Camp Gilboa, starting as a camper herself and eventually becoming the camp’s first development professional, a board president, and now a key member of the Executive Committee. She has touched countless lives as the mother of four campers, including this year’s Rosh (head of camp), and her unshakable commitment to Gilboa's mission has helped make the camp what it is today. Julie expressed how honored and loved she felt throughout the night.
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special evening and contributed to making the event a success! Stay tuned for clips of the stories and more updates about how much we raised. Your support means the world to us and ensures that Camp Gilboa’s spirit will thrive for generations to come.
