Imagine a place where laughter echoes, where the warmth of the sun is matched only by the warmth of new friendships, and where the challenges of a serious illness can be set aside for a while.
This special place is the Lucille & Jay Chazanoff Sunrise Day Camp-Staten Island, a true haven for children with cancer and their siblings, right here in our community.
This summer, and all year round, Sunrise Day Camp offers a world of fun, support, and normalcy to families navigating some of life’s toughest challenges. It’s a place where kids can simply be kids, enjoying everything from swimming and sports to games and creative arts. Remarkably, this entire experience is provided completely free of charge, ensuring that every child gets to experience the pure joy of summer camp.
As the only day camp of its kind in New York City, Sunrise, operated by the Staten Island JCC, fills a crucial need. The camp’s dedicated staff, including medical professionals, are specially trained to provide the unique care each camper needs. And by warmly welcoming siblings, Sunrise recognizes that a child’s illness impacts the entire family, creating a supportive and inclusive environment for everyone. The magic even extends beyond the summer with year-round programs that bring smiles to children in and out of the hospital.
A Community Coming Together
It takes a village to make this all possible, and that’s where we all come in. This September 10, the Staten Island JCC will host its annual Bocce & Pickleball Tournament, a fun-filled day of friendly competition that serves as a vital fundraiser to directly support the incredible work of Sunrise Day Camp.
This event also celebrates those who make our community stronger. We’re incredibly proud to share that one of this year’s honorees is our very own Paul Hamel, from Iceberg Mechanical. Paul’s deep commitment to supporting local initiatives, especially the Sunrise Day Camp, is truly inspiring, and we are thrilled to see him recognized for his heartfelt leadership and dedication.
We invite all of our friends, clients, and community members to join us in supporting this wonderful cause. Let’s come together to celebrate a true community champion and help ensure that Sunrise Day Camp can continue bringing joy and normalcy to the children who need it most.
Event Details:
📅 September 10, 2025
📍 Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC: 1466 Manor Rd Staten Island, NY 10314
Your participation will help create a summer of smiles and a lifetime of memories. We hope to see you there!