What is the CLASP Fellowship?
CLASP stands for Camp Leader And Synagogue Professional. URJ CLASP Fellowships offer grant-subsidized year-round positions for staff to work at a synagogue during the academic year and a URJ camp during the summer. CLASP Fellows engage children, teens and families in vibrant, joyful Jewish communities. CLASP Fellows bring the magic of URJ camping into congregations and bring the children from those congregations into URJ camps.
What do CLASP Fellows do?
CLASP Fellows enrich learning and belonging! They fill a shared position between a congregation and a URJ camp. Those organizations collaborate to outline job responsibilities and hire for the position based on the needs of the organizations and the skill set of desired candidates. Roles at the congregation typically focus on using a camp-inspired approach to engaging children, teens and families through youth group leadership, teaching, programming and camp recruitment strategies. Fellows hold a leadership role at camp that matches their skills.
How can a congregation get involved?
Congregations that have not previously engaged a CLASP Fellow are especially encouraged to consider participating. An eligible congregation must provide a compelling position, an enthusiastic supervisor and resources to support the position.
If your congregation is interested in filling a position with a CLASP Fellow or you have an existing staff member who would make a great CLASP Fellow, please email CLASP@urj.org or reach out directly to a URJ camp.
Who are CLASP Fellow candidates?
Recent college graduates and early career professionals who have experience with camp, synagogue education, youth group, Hillel and/or immersive education programs and who want experiences as a URJ camp leader and synagogue professional are desirable candidates.
If you are interested in being a CLASP fellow, reach out to a URJ camp director or contact CLASP@urj.org.
How are CLASP Fellows paid?
CLASP Fellows are hired and paid by the congregation. The minimum full-time salary range begins at $45,000 plus benefits. The CLASP grant subsidizes $10,000 annually, paid to the congregation. A higher salary may be offered based on the needs and/or location of the congregation.
When does a CLASP position start?
Most CLASP positions begin in mid-August. The expectation is for a CLASP Fellow starting in August 2024 to remain in their position through August 2026, for a two-year commitment.
Want to learn more? Still have questions? Message CLASP@urj.org
The CLASP Fellowship is made possible by a generous anonymous donor in partnership with URJ camps and congregations. We are grateful for their generosity.