Mitch Ormand

40 Faces of the J

#18 Mitch Ormand

Staff Member for 26 Years

"Best. Day. Ever...It's not just something you hear. It's a promise.”

"Best. Day. Ever."

If you’ve spent any time around the Levine JCC, you’ve probably heard Mitch Ormand’s favorite catchphrase. I’ve probably heard it over a thousand times while working at Camp Mindy and the JTEAM Afterschool Program from 2010–2021.

For 11 years, Mitch was my supervisor, and during that time, I watched him build a legacy with his staff, campers, and parents. Campers grew up and returned as counselors, and years later, former campers and counselors came back again—this time as parents, bringing their own kids to Camp Mindy.

For 25 years, Mitch has helped build something that goes far beyond a summer camp. He’s helped create a place where relationships last and where generations of families continue to return year after year.

What stands out most is Mitch’s commitment to showing up every single day. Whether he’s greeting campers in the breezeway each morning, writing down carpool numbers in the middle of a hot summer afternoon, or making three crockpots full of kosher chili for his staff during a cold winter day, he brings the same energy and care to every moment. No matter how big or small the task is, he makes people feel valued and part of something bigger.

One of my favorite memories with Mitch came during a summer when, after spending all day outside in 100-degree heat, we stayed until 7:30 that evening setting up a treasure hunt for the 4th and 5th grade unit. To Mitch, it wasn’t just another activity—it was another chance to create memories for campers. Working alongside him taught me that no job is too small and that everyone should contribute whatever they can to make something successful. Whether it’s setting up a special event, writing down carpool numbers, or making chili for the staff, Mitch leads by example and shows that culture is built in the little things.

Because of Mitch, Camp Mindy feels like more than just camp. It’s a place where kids build confidence, friendships grow, and people feel like they belong.

“Best Day Ever” was one of my first memories at the Levine JCC. But with Mitch, it’s not just something you hear.

It’s a promise.

- Conor Butner (Staff member for 17 years)

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