A: The activities at the weekend are geared for Jewish girls ages 9 to 15. We also would love girls who are older than 15 to come and lead some of the programs. Jewish girls from all backgrounds and affiliations are welcome. Girls from many locations will participate. Check out the growing list of where girls have registered from by clicking here.
Q: When is it?
A: The retreat begins at 9:30 PM Thursday, December 21st and ends at 2:00 PM on Monday, December 25.
Q: Do I have to subscribe to YALDAH or be part of a Bat Mitzvah Club to attend?
A: No. All Jewish girls are welcome!
Q: How will I get to the retreat?
A:Girls are responsible for their own transportation. If you live close enough, a parent can drive you, or you can drive with a group. If you don't live close you can take a plane. If you can get to Albany, a bus will go from Albany to the Retreat Center on Friday morning. When you register, we will let you know if any other girls in your area have registered so you can arrange a carpool.
Q: Can I come with a group?
A: Yes! We encourage groups to travel together to help with transportation. Plus, it will be nice to have a group of friends with you!
Q: Can I bring a friend who's not Jewish?
A: No. Since we have limited space and all the activities and programs are directed to Jewish girls, the retreat is only open to Jewish girls.
Q: Do I need to have any background in Jewish customs or prayer?
A: No. Girls from all backgrounds and levels of observane are welcome. This is a great opportunity to learn more about Judaism!
Q: What are the accommodations?
Please visit our accommodations page.
Q: What is the kashrut supervision?
A: Kashrut will be supervised by Rabbi Avraham Laber, Chabad of Troy, NY.
Q: Who will I share a room with?
A:Two girls will share a dorm style room. The registration form asks for preferences of who you'd like to share a room with. If you don't know your roomate, you'll get to know each other right away!
Q: What is the adult supervision?
A: There will be plenty of adult supervision. Nechama Laber who has over 15 years experience running programs for girls this age will be there, as well as parent chaperones and experienced counselors.
Q: Can my mother come as a chaperone?
A: Please contact us if you would like to be a chaperone. Chaperones will have their own hotel-style rooms with private bathrooms. See the pricing for chaperones on the register page.
Q: What if I'm taking a plane?
A: If you plan on flying to the weekend, please contact us so we can arrange to pick you up at the Albany Airport. All flights must come in Thursday.
Q: What should I pack?
A: Once you register, we will e-mail you all the information you need, including a packing list.
Q: Why do you need my e-mail address?
A: After you register we will be sending important information about the retreat to the e-mail address you provide. Please give a valid e-mail address that you check often.
Q: Is financial aid available?
A: We have to charge to cover the cost for this fun filled weekend, but thanks to our sponsors we will be able to offer financial aid on a first-come-first-served basis. Please contact us for more information.
Q: How do I register?
A: Visit our register page!
Q: What happens after I register?
A: Once we receive your registration and payment, we will contact you a few days later to let you know if you've been accepted to the retreat (if not you will be refunded). Then you will receive e-mail updates with important information about the retreat until we see you there!
Q: What is your refund policy?
A: The Retreat payment may be refunded if a camper that was enrolled is ill (G-d forbid) and therefore cannot attend. A doctor�s letter attesting to such illness must be sent with a request for a refund of payment. In all other cases that a camper does not attend the retreat, to an illness or for any other reason, no refund will be issued.