MADISON — Camp Laurelwood — Connecticut’s only Jewish overnight summer camp — will kick off its annual fundraising campaign on Sunday, August 7, at 11 a.m., by opening up its Madison grounds to the entire community. Families and individuals are invited to enjoy the camp’s facilities and activities — the pool, basketball and tennis courts, ropes course, archery and so much more. And, of course, there will be plenty of food available.

The annual fundraising campaign aims to make camp more affordable for families. According to campaign chair Jay Cohen, Laurelwood routinely sets camp fees at 30 to 40 percent below the actual costs of operating the program. For those families who are still unable to afford those rates, the camp offers additional scholarships to help offset the costs. The annual campaign helps ensure that every child who wishes to attend the camp is able to do so.

“Though the campaign hasn’t even officially kicked off, we’ve already reached nearly half of our goal through generous donations,” said Cohen. “This will really help us get off on the right foot, allowing for the possibility of serving even more children next summer.”

The 2016 season has been exciting one for the 79-year-old camp. Under the leadership of a new director, Ari Golub, this summer has seen the addition of specialty sports camps, including basketball and lacrosse. In addition, this year the camp continued to upgrade its facility, which included the resurfacing of the tennis and basketball courts, and an all new health center. Camp staff and volunteers have already begun planning the festivities for next year’s 80th anniversary celebration.

Laurelwood’s president, Scott Cooper, is enthusiastic about the camp’s future. “Laurelwood is now serving the grandchildren and great-grandchildren of some of our alumni, creating incredible family traditions. It’s amazing to watch parents tour the facilities with their children, pointing out favorite places from their cherished memories. We look forward to being here for many future generations to enjoy summer camp and come together with other Jewish children from throughout Connecticut and beyond.”

For more information, visit www.camplaurelwood.org.