Park Day Camp
We are thrilled to offer Campers entering grades kindergarten-6th the authentic experiences that have made us a cherished camp for generations. Our program is designed to foster self-esteem, camaraderie and lots of fun! We have developed an engaging array of activities to appropriately challenge campers to grow inside and out.
Park Day Camp Leadership
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Abbey Phillips
Camp Director
Email Abbey Here
Abbey’s camping journey began right here at Park Day Camp, where her passion for creating meaningful experiences for campers and staff first took root. Since then, she has directed Jewish day camps at the Siegel JCC in Delaware and the JCC of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas, before returning to Cleveland to lead the Mandel JCC’s Day Camps & Youth Services. With over a decade of experience in youth programming, camp leadership, and educational development—and 20 summers dedicated to Jewish day camps—Abbey has a proven track record of strategic growth, staff development, and program excellence. Now settled in Cleveland, Abbey shares her love for camp and adventure with her husband, Rob, and their 3-year-old son, Elliot. She is thrilled to return to Park Day Camp and lead it into its next chapter. -
Lee Millstone
Assistant Director
Email Lee Here
Lee is no stranger to PDC, having spent 10 summers here, where her love for camp was first sparked. She brings valuable experience from her role at J-Day Camps, where she spent the past four years creating exceptional programming for both campers and staff. A psychology major at UC Davis, Lee also serves as the president of Chabad at UC Davis and has held various leadership positions in her sorority, Alpha Phi. Currently studying abroad in Milan, Italy, Lee combines her passions for travel, performance, and all things camp-related. Lee is thrilled to return to her home away from home this summer and looks forward to bringing her enthusiasm and expertise to the PDC family for another unforgettable season! -
Debbie Friedman
Culture Carrier
Known as Teacher Debbie, a cherished figure in the community, Debbie is celebrated for leading with love, a kind heart, and an open mind. With decades of experience teaching mindfulness and “being your best self,” she currently works at Gross Schechter Day School, where she inspires children to grow, build self-esteem, and embrace their unique potential. As a camper at PDC 60 years ago, Debbie holds a deep connection to the camp’s traditions of fun, friendship, and safety. She is thrilled to bring her expertise to support counselors, engage campers, and introduce hands-on mindfulness activities. Debbie is looking forward to an incredible Summer 2025 at Park Day Camp!
LOCATION
Camp takes place at our beautiful 28-acre campus, conveniently located in Pepper Pike. Parents rave about our super organized, stress-free drop-off and pick-up procedures – campers stay safe and parents love the quick and efficient process.
STAFF
Our knowledgeable staff has many years of camp administration experience. Some of our supervisors have been at PDC for almost two decades! Our counselors are carefully selected to ensure the happiness and safety of our campers – many are former campers themselves. Numerous creative specialists are on board, as well as a staff nurse who is available throughout each day.
MEALS
Hot Kosher lunches are prepared in our kitchen and served each day at no extra cost. A mid-afternoon snack is also provided.
ACTIVITIES
Camp begins with morning circle, a time to reconnect with each other and direct our energy towards a new, exciting day. The day is spent on a variety of activities including sports, games, swimming, nature exploration, arts and crafts, creative play, music, special events and more!
SWIMMING
Campers enjoy a PRIVATE pool. Certified instructors conduct daily lessons and supervise all activities in our private pool. Each group has a morning swim instruction period and an afternoon free swim. Pool safety is very important at PDC.
SPORTS
Our sports program is skills-based, providing campers with a solid foundation for each activity. Campers enjoy tried-and-true team sports such as soccer and basketball as well as camp favorites like ultimate frisbee and battleball. Our goal is a positive, safe, confidence-building experience for everyone.
JEWISH THEMES
As part of our affiliation with The Park Synagogue, Jewish values and customs are woven into the fabric of our rich camp community. Campers participate in blessings at meals, a special Shabbat lunch each Friday, and other meaningful Jewish traditions.
See more information in the FAQ's.
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9:00 am - 3:50 pm, Monday through Friday
There is no camp on Thursday, July 4 -
Banquet - The final Friday of the summer the campers are treated to a special lunch. The counselors decorate the lunch tables as if it is a big “party.” (Campers ONLY)
Blue and White Games - is a two and a half day activity where the camp is divided into two teams that compete in a wide variety of events such as sports, art, and music.
Communication Folder – The best method for two-way communication between parents and Park Day Camp.
Family Dinner & Service – is an opportunity for family to join us for a Shabbat Dinner followed by a camper led Shabbat Service.
Late Night – is a special night where all campers have an opportunity to stay at camp until 7:00 pm and enjoy extra swimming, dinner, and activities built around a theme.
Parent Contacts – The senior counselor will contact you via phone once during the summer. Please communicate any compliments or concerns you might have so we can provide a better service for you.
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Extended care is a non-structured before and/or after hours service offered in the morning from 7:30 to 9:00 am, and in the afternoon from 3:50 - 6:00 pm.
Options: (Note that pricing is PER week and PER time period (morning OR afternoon).)
1-3 mornings per week for $30 per week
4-5 mornings per week for $46 per week
1-3 afternoons per week for $30 per week
4-5 afternoons per week for $46 per week
No individual days are available. No drop-ins allowed.