For over 150 years, The 92nd Street Y, New York (92NY) has served as a world-class cultural and community center. It is a place where people from across the globe connect through art, entertainment, and conversation. During the summer, that mission evolves into a high-energy summer experience that spans from the streets of the Upper East Side to a sprawling 50-acre campground in Rockland County.
A Summer Home for Every Camper
Each summer, 92NY offers an array of programs for 5-18 year olds. Each camp blends various active, creative and academic activities, providing a fun and transformative summer experience. More than anything, they provide a safe and inclusive space where children from all backgrounds learn, grow, and play. At 92NY, camp is more than just a place of fun—it is a place where every camper is empowered to be their best selves.
Far beyond a standard summer program, 92NY’s camps offer a diverse world of discovery. A few of their camps include — Camp Yomi, which offers a quintessential traditional day camp experience while Camp Ilanot offers a unique path for those looking to engage with 92NY’s rich Jewish heritage. Another camp they offer is Camp Tova, a dedicated, inclusive program for campers with learning and developmental disabilities.
The Foundation Behind Every Program
At the core of their mission is the belief that everyone deserves a community where they are seen, supported, and celebrated. These values come to life across all 92NY programs, underscoring the power of a summer experience rooted in character and community.
Through every activity, every tradition, and every connection made along the way, campers are quietly building the qualities that will stay with them long after the summer ends. Every day is an opportunity to grow a little more curious and a little more courageous. Leadership is practiced, humility is learned, perseverance is built, and kindness becomes second nature.
The Heart of the Experience: A Q&A with 92NY Leadership
At the heart of every incredible camp experience is a great team behind it making it all happen. We reached out to Stacey Rosen, Director of Camp Yomi, to hear her story and what makes 92NY Camps truly one of a kind.
Q. How did you get started in the camp world?
Stacey: I’ve been part of the camp world for as long as I can remember. I attended camp as a kid, and those experiences really shaped who I am today. I can’t imagine a summer without it. I truly live “10 for 2.” Later on, while working as a teacher, I realized I wanted camp to be more than just a summer experience and began pursuing it year-round. In 2014, I started at 92NY as a head counselor, and when a full-time opportunity opened up in 2019, I joined the team. I haven’t looked back since.
Q. What do you think sets your camp apart and makes it special?
Stacey: What sets 92NY Camps apart is our staff and the strength of our programming. Our team is deeply dedicated to creating a supportive, engaging environment where every camper feels known and valued. We also bring the best of 92NY to camp, combining creativity, community, and high-quality programming in everything we do.
Each day, campers leave Manhattan and head to our beautiful campgrounds, giving them the chance to unplug, explore, and truly be kids while enjoying sports, arts, an adventure course, and daily swimming. Even the journey is part of the experience, as campers travel together on coach buses, building friendships and starting the day with energy and excitement.
Q. Do you have a favorite camp tradition or memory and if so, can you tell us a little bit about it and why it stands out to you?
Stacey: My favorite camp tradition is the bus. The day begins on the bus! From the moment campers get on, there’s singing, games, and cheers that make the ride fun and interactive for everyone. Each bus develops its own culture and traditions, and over the course of the summer, it truly becomes like a small family. There’s even some friendly competition, with buses competing for “Bus of the Week” and “Bus of the Summer,” which makes it even more exciting and brings everyone together.
Q. What lasting impact do you hope your camp leaves on campers?
Stacey: I hope camp leaves campers with a strong sense of confidence, independence, and belonging. I want them to feel like they are part of a community where they are seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are.
I also hope they walk away with lasting friendships, a willingness to try new things, and memories that stay with them long after the summer ends. Whether it’s learning a new skill or gaining confidence in themselves, these are the moments that have a lasting impact.
Empowering the Next Generation: The 92NY Way
Across all of its programs, one thing remains constant at 92NY — the belief that every child deserves a place where they truly belong. It’s a mission that has guided them for generations, and one that continues to show up in everything they do. Through their thoughtfully designed programs, a deeply committed staff, and a community built on inclusion and belonging, 92NY has created something extremely special that goes far beyond a summer adventure.
Curious to learn more about 92NY’s mission and the work they’re doing? Visit their website here to dive deeper into their story.