Real Leadership Experience
Earn College Credits
CPR & First Aid Training
Build Confidence. Gain Experience. Lead with Purpose.
Our Leaders in Training (LIT) and Counselors in Training (CIT) programs give teens ages 12-17 the opportunity to grow into confident, capable leaders while making a real difference at camp.
Whether your teen is interested in working with children, exploring a future career in recreation or simply gaining leadership experience, this program provides hands-on training and real-world application in a supportive camp environment.
LIT/CIT Training | one week required annually
Leadership Starts with Preparation
LIT/CIT Training equips teens with the foundational skills needed to become successful camp leaders. This one-week training is required annually for all participants, regardless of prior experience.
During training, teens will:
✦ Develop communication and teamwork skills.
✦ Learn behavior management strategies.
✦ Build professionalism and confidence.
✦ Complete CPR and First Aid certification.
✦ Prepare for real camp leadership responsibilities.
This structured training ensures every participant enters fieldwork ready to lead with confidence and care.
LIT/CIT Fieldwork | Apply training in real camp settings
LIT Fieldwork | Learn by Doing
LIT Fieldwork gives teens the opportunity to apply their training in real camp settings.
Participants will:
✦ Assist with daily camp operations
✦ Support counselors and younger campers
✦ Engage in a variety of camp programs
✦ Gain hands-on leadership experience
✦ Earn school or volunteer service hours
Teens are placed in age-appropriate camps before fieldwork begins to help ensure a positive and successful experience.
CIT Fieldwork | Step into Responsibility
CIT Fieldwork is designed for teens ready to take on responsibilities similar to camp staff.
Participants will:
✦ Support program planning and execution
✦ Model positive behavior and leadership
✦ Build professional skills
✦ Earn school-required volunteer hours
✦ Make a meaningful impact in the camp community
CIT Fieldwork helps teens confidently transition toward future counselor roles.
UCSD College Credit Eligibility
Participants who complete 1 Week of LIT/CIT Training + 1 Week of Fieldwork may become eligible for UCSD college credit. This makes the program not only a leadership opportunity, but also an investment in their academic future.
additional benefits
✦ CPR and First Aid certification
✦ Volunteer service hours
✦ College credit eligibility
✦ A direct pathway toward future
YMCA employment
Who can participate?
✦ Ages 12–17
✦ Open enrollment
✦ Offered countywide
Space is limited at each branch and programs often fill before summer begins.
