Hundreds attended a joyous Hachnasas Sefer Torah held Sunday in Oorah’s TheZone girls’ camp.

Such events are always something special, but yesterday’s event, held during the regular camp visiting day so parents could attend as well, held a special note.

“I grew up not knowing I was Jewish or even guessing there was more to life, and now my children are in TheZone for the summer, getting to witness something like this,” one woman shared, her voice choked with emotion. “I don’t know how we got this far, but I know they’ll tell their grandchildren about this day.”

After the last letters were finished up by visiting camp fathers and Rav Chaim Mintz, mashgiach of Yeshiva of Staten Island and founder of Oorah, kippahs, bare heads, and black hats joined together in a joyous procession down to the shul. Music blared, men danced, and children waved flags in unanimous celebration of Hashem’s Torah.

The Hachnasas Sefer Torah was held in conjunction with a Chanukas Habayis for the brand new Plaza building in the girls’ camp, built after a fire two years ago burnt down the grand ballroom, devastating the many people who consider TheZone home.

“Filled with new rooms, top-of-the-line amenities, and most importantly, the light and laughter of campers learning about themselves and their Jewish roots, the new building is a cause for much celebration and gratitude to HaKadosh Baruch Hu!” said Oorah