ELAINE FRANK APACHI

3 years – 7th grade + CIT

Watch Our Video Pricing & Registration

Apachi Combos

Apachi + Camp Chi

Twice the fun! Combine Apachi Day Camp with Camp Chi Overnight Camp for one incredible summer experience and save 20% on the cost of Camp Chi.
Pricing & Registration

Early Childhood

When you combine Apachi Day Camp with full-day, year-round Early Childhood for your child turning either 3 or 4 in the Fall following camp, you save 100% on the cost of camp! Half-day students turning 3 or 4 in the Fall following camp will receive a 20% discount of the camp fee on their final payment.
Learn More

Camp Activities

  • Adventure

    Climbing Wall • High Ropes • Archery • Zipline • Obstacle Course

  • Arts & Creativity

    Dance • Drama & Improv • Ceramics • Arts & Crafts • Science & Nature • Busy Builders & Construction • S.T.E.A.M. Projects • Music • Outdoor Cooking

  • Swimming

    Swim Lessons • Free Swim

  • Special Activities

    Theme Days • Artist-In-Residence

  • Sports

    Sports Play & Games • Gaga • Yoga • Floor Hockey • Tae Kwon Do • Golf • Basketball • Baseball • Soccer • Volleyball

  • Jewish Culture

    Shabbat Celebrations • Israeli Village • Maccabi Games

Elaine Frank Apachi Details

Friendship requests

Campers submit friendship requests when they are completing their camp forms. We will do our best to accommodate at least one mutual request. Campers must be entering the same grade.

Our incredible specialized programming encourages campers to explore and try a wide range of activities. Additionally, each week campers participate in workshops led by performers we call Artists-in-residence. These artists expose campers to an array of talents like magic, juggling, percussion, dance, and other activities. Everyone comes together for Shabbat celebrations, Wacky Wednesday theme days, Maccabi Games Color competition, and other special activities that make Apachi the place to be all summer long.

American Red Cross Swim Program

Campers are taught to swim at Elaine Frank Apachi using the American Red Cross’ Learn-to-Swim program, which focuses on building campers’ confidence and comfortability in the water.

Skills one step at a time.
By giving campers the opportunity to master one element before moving on to the next, it makes it easy to build confidence in the water. Safety is our priority and all members of our Aquatics staff are American Red Cross certified lifeguards with CPR training for the professional rescuer. Elaine Frank Apachi Juniors and Explorer K campers, 3, 4, and 5 year olds attending a full day swim one time for 45 minutes each day. All campers entering 1st grade and beyond swim twice daily, with swim instruction in the morning and free swim in the afternoon.

Testing, Placement and Progress Reports

Campers are tested at the beginning of summer and placed in an appropriate swim level based on their skills. They pass through levels based on both formal and informal testing. They’re also tested for endurance and water safety and will wear colored wrist bands noting their level. This way they can swim safely and comfortably in an appropriate swim area during free swim times. Progress reports are shared through an online platform during the summer giving a summary of skills your child is working on and those already mastered.

Optional bus transportation for campers living within our designated boundaries is available for a fee. Bus pick-up and drop-off locations are a combination of door-to-door and cluster stops. Locations are determined based on registration and routes are designed to be as efficient as possible. Routes may change from summer to summer depending on enrollment. Buses are driven by licensed, professional drivers, and staffed by Apachi bus counselors who make sure campers stay buckled in their seats at all times.

Campers can also be driven to and from camp. All campers that are driven to camp, are escorted to and from their cars by our staff.

Food

A pizza lunch is provided on Wednesday and there is a hotdog cookout every Friday. The remainder of the week, please send along a sack lunch that we’ll refrigerate.

Food allergies

Safety and inclusion are top priorities at Apachi Day Camps. Our camps are committed to being allergy-safe. While our camps are not allergen-free, we strive to make our camp environments as safe as possible for children with food allergies using a customized approach and working closely with each family to develop an action plan for the child. More information can be found here.

Immunizations & Health Forms

To participate in camp, campers must have a completed health form signed by a physician on file. We also require documentation of immunizations.

The nurse, is in

Our full-time registered nurse is on-site all summer to treat minor injuries and prescribe campers a little “tlc” when needed. If your child visits the nurse, you will be notified about the treatment. In the rare event of a serious injury, you will be notified immediately and, if you are unavailable, we will contact those on your emergency calling list.

Camper Care

Our Community Care team, made up of mental health professionals and special education teachers, ensure the ever-evolving social emotional needs of our campers are met so they can be successful at camp.

For families who need to extend their days beyond the traditional hours of 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, we offer both before and after camp care. Before camp care opens at 7:00 am and after camp care runs until 6:00 pm. Each program is an additional add on to registration.

For campers needing extra support, there are several support options available to ensure a successful summer. You can choose from support through JCC Chicago, Keshet, or your child’s paraprofessional depending on which option works best for your camper and family. For more information, please connect with your Apachi Day Camp Director.

Elaine Frank Apachi In Action

Sample 50/50 block

Apachi Village Lake Zurich

(3-4 years)

Apachi Village Day Camp is big on fun in a nurturing environment where emerging independence is fostered in our youngest campers.

Learn More

Sample 50/50 block

Apachi STEM

Specialty Program

If you’re a camper who enjoys problem solving, and being creative and innovative while working on STEM projects, this will be a fascinating experience for you.

Curriculum for Apachi STEM is developed and taught by Noggin Builders.

This program is no longer being offered for Summer 2024.
Sample 50/50 block

Apachi Performing Arts Camp

Specialty Program

Campers will develop their acting, dance, musical theatre, improvisation, stage makeup and backstage skills. Plus, a final performance for families!

This program is no longer being offered for Summer 2024.
Sample 50/50 block

Counselor in Training (CIT) Program

Campers in 8th-10th grade gain hands on experience working with children and learn vital skills needed to become an Apachi leader and thrive at camp, school and beyond! This plus daily camp fun makes for one memorable summer experience.

Learn More

Sample 50/50 block

Overnight Camp

Try Chi

Try Chi is our 4-day, 3-night overnight camp experience for 2nd-6th graders at Camp Chi in Lake Delton, WI. Campers meet new friends and live in cabins with experienced, caring counselors who help them feel comfortable right away. They’ll feel the spirit of camp with cookouts, campfires, sing-alongs and great evening programs.

Learn More

jamee smithJamee Smith

Director, Elaine Frank Apachi

Jamee Smith has been with Apachi Day Camp for 30 summers and every year she still counts down the days until camp begins. She began as a counselor and quickly realized she wanted to be a part of Apachi Day Camp year-round. Jamee feels lucky to be the Director of Elaine Frank Apachi because not only does she see all the big smiles on campers’ faces each day, she also gets to watch her campers and staff grow and change over the course of each summer. Her favorite thing about Elaine Frank Apachi is watching the relationships form between campers and staff because Jamee knows those bonds are magical.

Jamee holds a B.S. in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Kansas and a Master’s degree in Teaching from National Louis University. When she is not at work, she loves spending time with her family, walking her dog, Jack, listening to music, knitting, reading, and exercising.

 

Leslee Cohen-LavinLeslee Cohen-Lavin

Manager of Operations, Elaine Frank Apachi

Camp has always held a special place in Leslee’s heart. She grew up going to camp at the J and later became staff, working as a counselor and then Assistant Unit Head in the late 90’s.

Before joining Elaine Frank Apachi, Leslee served as a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) and worked at Nationwide Children’s Hospital for 6 years. She holds a B.S. in Human Development & Family Science, specializing in Child and Family Studies from Ohio State University and a Master’s degree in Family & Consumer Sciences, specializing in Child Life Studies from Illinois State University. Leslee is beyond thrilled to continue pursuing her passion for camp and can’t wait to get to know all the Elaine Frank Apachi families and campers.

Priority Registration for Returning Summer 2023 Campers & Their Siblings
October 10-24, 2023

Early Bird Registration
October 25-November 30, 2023

Please Note: Ages and grades listed below are as of the 2024-25 school year.

Juniors  |   3-4 yrs

Our Juniors program is designed to provide a fun and positive camp experience, plus swim instruction. Campers participate in a full spectrum of activities where the emphasis is on being active, acquiring new skills and developing special bonds. They benefit from meaningful participation in a camp community designed just for them. Small group sizes with experienced and mature, caring counselors give each child the attention they need to thrive while participating in fun summer activities, games, sports and more. You and your child will feel the reassurance you need for a comfortable and successful camp experience.

SessionLengthDatesEarly Bird
Ends 11/30/23
Winter
Ends 2/29/24
Spring
Through Camp
Session 1+ | 3 Days | 6 WksFull-Day6/10-7/19$2,975$2,975$3,225
Session 2+ | 3 Days | 6 WksFull-Day6/24-8/2$2,975$2,975$3,225
Full Summer | 3 Days | 8 WksFull-Day6/10-8/2$3,490$3,490$3,740
Session 1 | 5 Days | 4 WksFull-Day6/10-7/3$2,480$2,655$2,905
Session 2 | 5 Days | 4 WksFull-Day7/8-8/2$2,480$2,655$2,905
Session 1+ | 5 Days | 6 WksFull-Day6/10-7/19$3,565$3,915$4,165
Session 2+ | 5 Days | 6 WksFull-Day6/24-8/2$3,565$3,915$4,165
Full Summer | 5 Days | 8 WksFull-Day6/10-8/2$4,410$4,760$5,010

Register

 

Explorers  |  K-Grade 3

The Explorers’ high–energy day focuses on skill–building, a variety of camp activities, boosting self–esteem and forging new friendships. Explorers includes daily swim lessons, free swim, individual and team sports, performance and mixed media–arts, Artist in Residence Program and STEM.

SessionDatesEarly Bird
Ends 11/30/23
Winter
Ends 2/29/24
Spring
Through Camp
Session 1 | 4 Wks6/10-7/3$2,480$2,665$2,905
Session 2 | 4 Wks7/8-8/2$2,480$2,665$2,905
Session 1 + | 6 Wks6/10-7/19$3,565$3,915$4,165
Session 2 + | 6 Wks6/24-8/2$3,565$3,915$4,165
Full Summer | 8 Wks6/10-8/2$4,410$4,760$5,010
Thinking about overnight camp? Combine Apachi with Camp Chi for one incredible summer and save on the cost of camp. Learn more.

 

Apachi Performing Arts Camp  |  Grades 4-7

Guided by experienced directors and performers, campers will develop their acting, dance, musical theatre, improvisation, stage makeup and backstage skills. Campers will participate in a final performance for their families in the evening of the second Thursday. The camp day will also include our favorite Elaine Frank Apachi camp activities, such as free swim, to create a well-rounded camp experience. Daily attendance is encouraged.

This program is no longer being offered for Summer 2024.

 

Apachi STEM  |  Grades 4-7

We partner with Noggin Builders to create exciting activities that unleash campers’ creativity and problem-solving abilities. Curriculum may include designing working circuits to make your own doorbell or alarm box, creating a boat for our cardboard regatta, engineering your own working spring car, designing & building robots, exploring forensic science and so much more! STEM campers truly get the best of both worlds – half the day is centered around STEM while the other half is filled with traditional camp activities to create a well-rounded summer.

This program is no longer being offered for Summer 2024.

 

Pioneers  |  Grades 4-7

The Pioneer campers weekly schedule is the perfect blend of group and choice specialty activities. Each week campers create a personalized summer by choosing specialties which meet three times per week allowing them to spend summer focusing on their favorite camp activities. Specialty choices include but are not limited to competitive and individual athletics, performance, STEM, cooking, and more. Field trips round out the summer experience, adding to the fun. Pioneer campers are also in the pool for both free and instructional swim daily.

SessionDatesEarly Bird
Ends 11/30/23
Winter
Ends 2/29/24
Spring
Through Camp
Session 1 | 4 Wks6/10-7/3$3,100$3,275$3,525
Session 2 | 4 Wks7/8-8/2$3,100$3,275$3,525
Session 1 + | 6 Wks6/10-7/19$4,270$4,620$4,870
Session 2 + | 6 Wks6/24-8/2$4,270$4,620$4,870
Full Summer | 8 Wks6/10-8/2$5,155$5,505$5,755
Thinking about overnight camp? Combine Apachi with Camp Chi for one incredible summer and save on the cost of camp. Learn more.

 

CIT  |  Grade 8-10

Highly motivated and responsible campers entering grade 8th-10th are invited to join us for our Counselor-In-Training (CIT) program. The CIT curriculum is designed to develop necessary skills needed to take care of children, foster creative and critical thinking, and enhance communication and collaboration efforts needed in social and professional settings. The CIT program helps teenagers explore new areas of development in a safe environment, all while learning vital skills needed to be an Apachi leader and beyond.  Learn More.

Special Camp Pricing for Returning CITs

As a thank you for being a CIT with us again this summer,
• Enjoy 20% off camp fees | 2nd Year Returning CITs
• Enjoy 30% off camp fees | 3rd Year Returning CITs

Pricing listed on the website reflects the full price of the CIT program. Your discount will be applied once registration is complete.

SessionDatesFee
Session 1 | 4 Wks6/10-7/3$1,435
Session 2 | 4 Wks7/8-8/2$1,435
Session 1 + | 6 Wks6/10-7/19$2,065
Session 2 + | 6 Wks6/24-8/2$2,065
Full Summer | 8 Wks6/10-8/2$2,540
Thinking about overnight camp? Combine Apachi with Camp Chi for one incredible summer and save on the cost of camp. Learn more.

 

Elaine Frank Apachi  +  Camp Chi

Combine Elaine Frank Apachi Day Camp with 2 or 3.5 weeks of amazing overnight camp at Camp Chi to create an extraordinary summer!

SessionApachi DatesChi DatesGradesFeeCanteen
EFA 5 Weeks + Chi Session 26/10-7/117/12-8/44-7$8,365 $130
EFA 4 Weeks + Chi Session 16/10-6/14, 7/15-8/26/16-7/104-7$7,815$130
EFA 4 Weeks + Chi Session 26/10-7/37/12-8/44-7$7,815$130
EFA 6 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 16/10-6/26, 7/15-8/26/27-7/10
3-7$6,350$80
EFA 6 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 26/10-7/11, 7/29-8/27/12-7/263-7$6,545$80
EFA 6 Weeks + Chi Take 26/10-6/14, 7/1-8/26/16-6/284-7$6,400$80
SessionApachi DatesChi DatesGradesFeeCanteen
EFA PAC + EFA Pioneers 3 Weeks + Chi Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/117/12-8/44-7$8,365$130
EFA PAC + EFA Pioneers 2 Weeks + Chi Session 26/10-6/21, 6/26-7/37/12-8/44-7$7,815$130
EFA PAC + 4 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/11, 7/29-8/27/12-7/264-7$6,405$80
EFA PAC + 4 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 16/10-6/21, 6/24-6/26, 7/15-8/26/27-7/104-7$6,350$80
SessionApachi DatesChi DatesGradesFeeCanteen
EFA STEM + 3 Weeks EFA Pioneers + Chi Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/117/12-8/44-7$8,365$130
EFA STEM + 2 Weeks EFA Pioneers + Chi Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/37/12-8/44-7$7,815$130
EFA STEM + 4 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/11, 7/29-8/27/12-7/264-7$6,405$80
EFA STEM + 4 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 16/10-6/21, 6/24-6/26, 7/15-8/26/27-7/104-7$6,350$80

Register

 


Try Chi

2nd–6th grade 
Try Chi is the best way to get a taste of quality Jewish overnight camping. Campers meet new friends, and live in cabins with experienced, caring counselors who help them feel comfortable right away. They’ll feel the spirit of camp with cookouts, campfires, sing-alongs and great evening programs.

Learn More

Elaine Frank Apachi  +  Camp Chi

Combine Elaine Frank Apachi Day Camp with 2 or 3.5 weeks of amazing overnight camp at Camp Chi to create an extraordinary summer!

SessionApachi DatesChi DatesGradesFeeCanteen
EFA 5 Weeks + Chi Session 26/10-7/117/12-8/44-7$8,365 $130
EFA 4 Weeks + Chi Session 16/10-6/14, 7/15-8/26/16-7/104-7$7,815$130
EFA 4 Weeks + Chi Session 26/10-7/37/12-8/44-7$7,815$130
EFA 6 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 16/10-6/26, 7/15-8/26/27-7/10
3-7$6,350$80
EFA 6 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 26/10-7/11, 7/29-8/27/12-7/263-7$6,545$80
EFA 6 Weeks + Chi Take 26/10-6/14, 7/1-8/26/16-6/284-7$6,400$80
SessionApachi DatesChi DatesGradesFeeCanteen
EFA PAC + EFA Pioneers 3 Weeks + Chi Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/117/12-8/44-7$8,365$130
EFA PAC + EFA Pioneers 2 Weeks + Chi Session 26/10-6/21, 6/26-7/37/12-8/44-7$7,815$130
EFA PAC + 4 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/11, 7/29-8/27/12-7/264-7$6,405$80
EFA PAC + 4 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 16/10-6/21, 6/24-6/26, 7/15-8/26/27-7/104-7$6,350$80
SessionApachi DatesChi DatesGradesFeeCanteen
EFA STEM + 3 Weeks EFA Pioneers + Chi Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/117/12-8/44-7$8,365$130
EFA STEM + 2 Weeks EFA Pioneers + Chi Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/37/12-8/44-7$7,815$130
EFA STEM + 4 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 26/10-6/21, 6/24-7/11, 7/29-8/27/12-7/264-7$6,405$80
EFA STEM + 4 Weeks + Chi Mini Session 16/10-6/21, 6/24-6/26, 7/15-8/26/27-7/104-7$6,350$80

Register

When you combine Apachi Day Camp with full-day, year-round Early Childhood for your child turning either 3 or 4 in the Fall following camp, you save 100% on the cost of camp! Half-day students turning 3 or 4 in the Fall following camp will receive a 20% discount of the camp fee on their final payment. Learn more.

2024 Dates & Pricing Coming Soon!

Additional Options

Session4 Weeks6 Weeks8 Weeks
Before Care$375$550$715
Before Care - 3 Days$235$350$450
After Care$435$630$825
After Care - 3 Days$280$390$495
If you do not see the option you need, please email Leslee at lcohenlavin@jccchicago.org

Session4 Weeks6 Weeks8 Weeks
Transportation - Bus Cluster Stop - Round-Trip - 5 Days$230$345$455
Transportation - Bus Round-Trip - 5 Days$455$690$915
If you do not see the option you need, please email Leslee at lcohenlavin@jccchicago.org

Register

Refer a Friend and Save!

Share Your Apachi Love! Apachi is very special and we want to thank you for telling your friends and family about camp. Receive $75 off your camp fee for each NEW camper that registers for Apachi and lists you as their referral source!

Learn More

Financial Solutions for Families in Need

Illinois Action for Children

A state-based program providing funding to help families in need of childcare, can also be used for day camp!

Fee Assistance

This financial aid helps offset a portion of JCC program fees and is made possible through JCC Chicago and Women’s Auxiliary funding in addition to the generosity of donors.

Learn More

Extra Support for Campers

There are several support options available to ensure a successful summer for your camper. You can choose from support through JCC Chicago, Keshet, or your child’s paraprofessional depending on which option works best for your camper and family. For more information, please connect with your Apachi Day Camp Director.

keshet and jcc chicago logos

Contact Us

For more information or to request a tour, contact us at 847.726.0800 or email jsmith@jccchicago.org.