Our Approach
In Hebrew, the word BaMidbar is translated as “in the wilderness,” or “in the desert,” but the word itself comes from the Hebrew root ד-ב-ר, which means, “to speak.”
The Zohar, an ancient Jewish text, tells us that while we were in Egypt, the Jewish people lost our ability to tell our own stories. During that time, we were not only physical slaves, but slaves to another person’s narrative.
When we left Egypt, we spent forty years in the midbar–the wilderness–and it was there that we regained our ability to speak. We found our voice, began to establish our national identity, and started to write a new narrative as an independent people.
At BaMidbar, we believe the wilderness continues to hold opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
We combine the guidance, support, and strength inherent in Jewish tradition, with a clinically sophisticated, evidence-based model.
By doing so, BaMidbar encourages students to redefine how they view themselves, reevaluate their capabilities, and rediscover their visions for a brighter tomorrow.
In short, BaMidbar provides the framework for Jewish youth and young adults to find their voices, and write their own narratives.
Guiding Principles
Adventure
Experiences
Adventure-based experiences are used as vehicles for growth, and students apply their learning in a safe, experiential environment.
Clinically Informed
Frameworks
Mental health professionals design programming and train guides to facilitate experiences with an eye toward social and emotional growth.
Jewish
Lens
Jewish tradition, metaphor, and storytelling are used to support students in exploring meaning, values, purpose, and identity.
Mental Health
Awareness
Programs work to increase open dialogue and decrease stigma around mental health in the broader Jewish community.
While BaMidbar runs a variety of Community Education, Professional Development, and Therapy services, all of our programs are guided by one common philosophy.
BUILDING SELF-REGULATORY CAPACITY
HEALTHY RelationshipS WITH SELF AND OTHERS
SELF-EFFICACY AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT
FINDING MEANING AND PURPOSE
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
SUPPORTING CHOICE AND EMPOWERMENT
At BaMidbar, we meet every student where they are in their unique Jewish journey and honor the role Judaism does–or does not–play in their life.
We engage in Jewish practice and tradition with a focus on community connection and individual exploration.
We help our students explore meaning, values, and purpose through a Jewish lens.
