Funded in part through a generous grant from The Picower Foundation, the New Camp Initiatives program was established in 2005. The objective of the program is to provide developing camps a consultant to assist in the planning and implementation of their new camp concept. The Foundation for Jewish Camp's (FJC) Director of New Camp Initiatives has an intimate knowledge of the complexities involved in starting and running a camp and serves as the FJC point person for all new camps and specialty programs.

Interested camps are directed to apply to the FJC for assistance. Once a new camp has been accepted into the program, the Director conducts a series of meetings and camp visits and produces a needs-assessment inventory with an accompanying report outlining the recommended strategies, tactics, and timelines for implementation. On-going consultation and support is provided to the camp organization.

The New Camp Initiatives program provides support in all areas of camp operation. In addition, a comprehensive list of specialty experts has been developed and may be recommended in the following areas:

• Board development
• Strategic planning
• Finance and budget development
• Insurance
• Fund development
• Capital campaign
• Site planning and improvement
• Program planning
• Staff training
• Marketing