Hava Nashira, the first professional gathering dedicated to Jewish songleading when launched in 1992, was built by Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI) and URJ Camping, led by the visionaries Debbie Friedman (z"l) and Cantor Jeff Klepper. The Union for Reform Judaism maintains its historic commitment to Hava Nashira, and supports it through a lead sponsorship.

The conference has evolved over its 30+ years. From about 20 people in 1992 to more than 130 in 2024, and from a focus solely on camp songleading in the Reform Movement to the addition of music for children and families, deep spiritual worship and percussion, chant and new sounds in Jewish life, the program always grows to meet the current and future vision of singing in Jewish spaces. 

Sing Unto God is offering  a 2-day songleader intensive track for those 18 & older who will be working in Jewish camps in overnight or day camps for Summer 2025. The registration fee is $630 and includes attendance at all of the Hava Nashira Jewish Songleaders Conference, PLUS the special dedicated camp songleader track for 2-days prior to the Conference.  

Participants will learn repertoire and skills, be part of a supportive cohort, and experience the joy of singing together, led by three experts in camp songleading: Jacob "Spike" Kraus, Deb Winter, and Eric Hunker. And, they'll have a chance to network with Jewish communal professionals from across North America.