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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 Counselor-In-Training (C.I.T.) program offers teenagers ages 14 & 15 the opportunity to work with children and while 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 ages 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! C.I.T.s report directly to the C.I.T. Coordinator and Camp Program Director who mentor them through any challenges and celebrate 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: First-Year C.I.T.

C.I.T.s will be 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 will work in camp groups, engage in camp games, songs, activities, and participate in leadership trainings with fellow C.I.T.s.

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

C.I.T.s who have already successfully completed one summer of our C.I.T. program will 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 leadership staff to plan and implement activities. This additional experience will enable the more seasoned C.I.T.s to practice their skills as future camp counselors.

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

Dates:
Session 1: June 26 – July 7 (no camp July 4)
Session 2: July 10 – July 21
Session 3: July 24 – August 4
Session 4: August 7 – August 18

Fees:

  • C.I.T. First Year: $200/session *Minimum 4-week commitment
  • C.I.T. Second Year and Beyond: $150/session *Includes mandatory pre-camp training dates

How to Apply

Candidates must fill out a C.I.T. application and will be interviewed by the C.I.T. Coordinator. C.I.T. applications are available online and at our Front Desk. Apply early as space is limited by session.

Acceptance into the program will be based on a completed application, demonstrated interest in the program, and an interview (mandatory for first year). C.I.T. applications are available online and at our Front Desk.

  1. Submit completed application to C.I.T. Program Director by April 1, 2023.*
  2. Interviews for first-year C.I.T.s will be held on a rolling basis from April 15-May 15, 2023.
  3. Acceptance into program notification by May 15, 2023.
  4. All camp epact paperwork and payment must be complete by June 1, 2023 to secure spot.

*Applications may be submitted by hardcopy to the Front Desk or electronically by email.

Required Camp Forms Due June 1 through ePACT Network.

Contact

For questions regarding the C.I.T. program, please contact Carolynn Kaufman at 203-920-1656 or by email.