Counselors-in-Training (CIT)

19.9 Counselor in Training

CIT Program Description                             

This program is a wonderful opportunity to enhance and develop self-confidence, self-awareness, communication skills, tolerance for adversity, and personal leadership style. Your training as a CIT will begin with retreats in the spring, followed by a training week and by the time your first CIT in-cabin session begins you will be comfortable and confident with your skills. This is an endless opportunity to be a positive role model and to make new friends. We ask you to push yourself and then experience wonders you have never imagined!

CIT Requirements

  • Must be 16-17 years of age and in high school
  • Live in a cabin with up to ten campers and assist with the leadership and guidance of campers
  • Leads and assists everyday counselor responsibilities, receiving constant feedback
  • Responsible for interpreting the rules, policies, and traditions of Camp Kern to campers
  • Must have a “Kids First” vision and place the camper’s safety and camp experience first
  • Must have interest in, concern for, and the ability to work with children as well as the ability to understand
  • Responsible for motivating camper participation in camp programs, cabin activities, and meals
  • Must encourage a fun, positive, and safe environment within the parameters of the YMCA mission
  • Assist with CIT service projects around Camp Kern
  • CITs have time off to go home on the weekends between Friday’s check-out and Sunday’s check-in

Availability

Your CIT must attend a Training Week before their In-Cabin weeks. 

2025 CIT Dates & Session Pricing:

Attend Training Week Session 1

(June 1-6) $700

Attend Training Week Session 5

(June 29-July 4) $700

In-Cabin Session Options:

Session 2: June 8-13 ($150)

Session 3: June 15-20 ($150)

Session 4: June 22-27 ($150)

Session 5: June 29-July 4 ($150)

Session 6: July 6-11 ($150)

Session 7: July 13-18 ($150)

Session 8: July 20-25 ($150)

Session 9: July 27-August 2 ($150)

In-Cabin Session Options:

Session 6: July 6-11 ($150)

Session 7: July 13-18 ($150)

Session 8: July 20-25 ($150)

Session 9: July 27-August 1 ($150)

 

Please note that a weekend stayover is not automatically built-in to the CIT schedule to allow participants time away from camp to rest and recharge. If you would like your CIT to stay in between their sessions, please let MacKallie know when selecting your In-Cabin weeks or contact the office to add it to your registrations after selecting your In-Cabin weeks. 

CIT Application Process

Step1: Have your parent(s)/guardian(s) register you for the CIT program and select your training week. Once registered for your training week your parent/guardian will be contacted by the program's director to select your in-cabin week(s). Your training week must precede any in-cabin weeks you select. We'll send your parent/guardian an updated account statement after your registration has been updated to include your in-cabin week(s).

Step 2: Complete and submit an online CIT application and have at least two references complete the online CIT reference form

Step 3: Once your CIT application has been recevied and reviewed a mock interview will be scheduled. This is an opportunity to ask questions and your chance to share what you're most looking forward to as a CIT. These interviews can also be scheduled during the CIT retreat. 

Step 4: Attend the CIT retreat and get ready for the summer! The CIT program includes an optional retreat: Friday, April 5-Saturday, April 6

This retreat is not required for the program, and is intended as an added enhancement for those who are available. 

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR SUMMER Camp