Three Generations at Camp Interlaken

Written by Sylvia Winter

My parents were Holocaust survivors. Born and raised in Poland, my mother was very active in the Jewish youth movements of the 1930s. These youth movements provided summer camps that included diverse activities such as sports, camping, culture, ethics, and a vibrant social life. My mother loved summer camp, and she was determined that her daughter would attend a Jewish summer camp.

So, in 1966, when the JCC bought Camp Interlaken, I was on the bus to Eagle River that first summer. My mother’s dream had come true: Jewish summer camp for her daughter.

Sylvia Winter and her family at Interlaken.

To say that Camp Interlaken had a huge impact on my life would be an understatement. Interestingly, most of that impact occurred as an adult. I became a staff member in the ’70s, attended Family Camp in the ’90s, joined the Camp Committee, and served as Chair of the Camp Committee for 10 years. My son, David, continued the family legacy by attending camp and becoming a staff member.

This year, my family is one of the Family Chairs for the 60th reunion. I have attended every Camp Interlaken Reunion (the 10th, 25th, 36th, and 50th). Meeting campers, staff, and supporters from different generations at these reunions has been so inspiring, as I realized how much we all share in our love for Camp Interlaken. So, please join us at Camp Interlaken for the 60th Reunion on June 13-14, 2025.