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New Canaan YMCA

Counselor-in-Training (C.I.T.)

Counselor-in-Training (C.I.T.)

Counselor-In-Training Program (Ages 14 & 15)

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WHERE TEENS BECOME ROLE MODELS

Our C.I.T. program is for teenagers who are interested in working with children and gaining leadership skills. C.I.T.s help bridge the gap between campers and counselors, learning to become positive role models. C.I.T.s gain leadership experience and learn how to work with a variety of age groups, either at Camp Mini (preschool camp located at the Y) or Camp Y-Ki (school-age traditional outdoor camp located at Kiwanis Park). In addition to working with younger campers, C.I.T.s enjoy special activities including pizza parties, theme days, community service projects, and more! The program is led by the C.I.T. Coordinator, who mentors C.I.T.s through any challenges and celebrates their growth.

All C.I.T.s are required to attend pre-camp trainings. Evaluations are conducted throughout the camp sessions and used for second-year return invitations and future paid counselor positions.

Counselor-In-Training (C.I.T.): First-Year

C.I.T.s are given the opportunity to develop skills and peer relationships in an engaging environment. While they are not responsible for the safety and supervision of campers, first-year C.I.T.s work in camp groups with counselors, engage in camp games, songs, activities, and participate in leadership trainings with fellow C.I.T.s. Minimum 4-week commitment.

Counselor-In-Training (C.I.T.): Second-Year & Beyond

C.I.T.s who have already successfully completed one summer of our C.I.T. program participate in our Second Year and Beyond program. This program features a training refresher with evaluations at the end of each session. In addition to assisting with everyday camp responsibilities and groups, second year and beyond C.I.T.s enjoy hands-on experience working with camp activity specialists to plan and implement activities. This additional experience enables the more seasoned C.I.T.s to practice their skills as a future camp counselor. New this summer, C.I.T.s can earn a junior lifeguarding (age 14) or lifeguarding (age 15) certification at no additional cost!

Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM-4:15 PM *Times may vary based on camp placement

Dates:
Session 1: June 22 – July 3
Session 2: July 6 – July 17
Session 3: July 20 – July 31
Session 4: August 3 – August 14

*Mandatory pre-camp training dates to be announced.

How to Apply:

The Submission Deadline has been extended through Wednesday, April 1. Apply Today! New and returning candidates must fill out a C.I.T. application (available online and at the Member Services Desk). Apply early as space is limited by session. Acceptance into the program will be based on the completed application and demonstrated interest in the program. First-year candidates will be interviewed by the C.I.T. Coordinator.

C.I.T. applications are now available online, and hard copies are available at our Member Services Desk. Click below to fill out an application!

  • Submit completed application to the C.I.T. Program Coordinator by April 1. Applications will be available online.
  • Interviews for first-year C.I.T.s will be held on a rolling basis from mid-March through May 1.
  • Acceptance into the program notification will be announced on a rolling basis by May 15.
  • All camp paperwork and payment must be completed on CampSpace by June 1 to secure spot.

*Applications may be submitted by hardcopy to the Y’s Member Services Desk or electronically by email.

Contact

For questions regarding the C.I.T. program, please contact Ian Puebla, School-Age & Camp Y-Ki Director, at 203-920-1635 or by email.