The Ira Fund for Camp: If We Had a Hammer
Dear Kinderland Family,
One year ago, we mourned the heartbreaking loss of Ira Coleman-Palansky, Camp Kinderland’s beloved Program Director for forty years. His unwavering commitment to peace, solidarity, equity, justice, and internationalism continues to inspire us every day, and we miss him deeply.
This spring marks Ira’s yahrzeit — the one-year anniversary of his passing. That’s why we’re launching a special effort to honor Ira’s legacy at Camp Kinderland: The Ira Fund for Camp: If We Had a Hammer.
In a typical spring, we would focus our fundraising on basic maintenance and upgrades. Of course, to keep Ira’s legacy alive, we must keep Camp Kinderland healthy, vibrant, and thriving. But with this fundraiser, we are also planning to set aside/reserve a portion of any monies raised—and it may take a few years!—to build a lasting and practical structure to honor Ira’s legacy.
Your gift will support two important goals:
A Tribute to Ira:
We are working closely with our maintenance team, board, and Ira Legacy committee to design a lasting structure in Ira’s name — one that celebrates his love of music, community, and solidarity. Current ideas include a covered outdoor pavilion for singing, gathering, and rainy-day activities — a space where Ira’s spirit can live on and inspire future generations. While designing and funding a project of this scale will take time, we plan to build a commemorative archway in Ira’s honor this summer.
Keeping Kinderland Healthy, Vibrant, and Thriving:
To truly honor Ira’s lifelong dedication, we must also care for Camp itself. Therefore funds will also support urgent infrastructure needs: new staff housing, roof repairs, and essential septic system upgrades to meet safety codes and keep camp thriving for future generations.
If we had a hammer — and we do, we have you — we could achieve it all. So watch our video below, share with your friends, and....
With love and solidarity,
The Ira Legacy Committee