Counselors in Training
NEW! Two 3-week sessions and one 2-week session
 Entering Grades 11 – 12 (capacity: 10 CITs per 3-week session, 20 CITs per 2-week session)

The CIT program is for mature campers who are ready to begin the journey towards becoming an excellent camp counselor. This three or two-week (weekends included) program is designed to help older teens develop and practice vital characteristics of leadership and mentoring. CIT's will utilize the challenge course to hone in on key facets of leading youth such as clear communication, trust, positive feedback and asking for help. The Camp Collins CIT program emphasizes understanding children, respecting diversity, leadership skills and the YMCA core values.  

This is a specialized program that requires maturity and a desire to learn and work hard. An application form and interview are required and provide good practice for potential CITs. *Completion of an application and participation in the interview does not guarantee placement in the CIT program. CIT Application CIT Application

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Three week session specifics:

CIT's will spend the first two weeks of camp building a team and working together with experienced camp staff to learn the necessary aspects of camp counseling and youth development. During this time they will take field trips to other camps in the region to gain a broader perspective of camping programs. The three week session also includes an American Red Cross Adult and Child CPR and First Aid course for which CITs will have the chance to receive this 2 year certification. This is a valuable certification that is required of employees within most youth serving organizations. The three week session will also feature a lesson planning workshop where CITs will learn how to create camp activity lesson plans to include safety considerations, equipment and age appropriateness. CITs will then practice the art of facilitation and giving clear instructions as they implement their activities with campers.

During the CIT's third week, they have the opportunity practice their skills in a cabin as an assistant counselor. Side by side a senior staff member, CIT's will help lead younger campers through exciting camp activities. They will receive support, coaching and verbal and written feedback through evaluations from camp staff and the CIT Coordinators.

Two week session specifics:

CIT's will spend the first week of camp building a team and working together with experienced camp staff to learn the necessary aspects of camp counseling and youth development. During the CIT's second week, they have the opportunity practice their skills in a cabin as an assistant counselor. Side by side a senior staff member, CIT's will help lead younger campers through exciting camp activities. They will receive support, coaching and verbal and written feedback through evaluations from camp staff and the CIT Coordinators.  

CIT Application

2012 CIT Sessions
Session 1: July 1 - July 21   (Three week session)
Session 2: July 22 - Aug. 4   (Two week session)
Session 3: Aug. 5 - Aug. 25  (Three week session)

Additional YMCA Teen Programs
NEW! Teen Expedition Camp
Teen Camp 
Teen XL (Extreme Leadership)
Year-round Leadership Development Program
 
Camp Fees
Visit Camp Fees to learn more about YMCA Camp Collins' Flexible Fee structure.

Financial Assistance
Thinking about sending your child to YMCA Camp Collins but not sure you can afford it? Financial assistance is available to families who qualify. Download the Financial Assistance Form or contact the Camp Collins office at 503.663.5813 to request a form be mailed to you. 

Registration 
Visit Registration for links to online registration and mail/fax-in registration forms.