Counselor In-Training Program

Counselor In-TraininG (CIT) Program

Applications are accepted each year from January 2 to March 1.

For more information fill out our program contact form & select Counselor In-Training Program in the drop down menu.

About the Program

Our CIT program is a specialized program to train and cultivate our own staff. Each person who is accepted into the program is handpicked by our administrative team. Our training program is a two year commitment. The training program must be completed before becoming a full fledged camp counselor.

Each Counselor In-Training (CIT) begins with a 2-week summer session. This first session will give them the building blocks to handle a camper group but also bond them with their fellow CIT’s. While they are not directly responsible for campers; they will observe camper groups, attend training sessions with their designated staff counselors, and establish mentorships with existing staff counselors. At the end of this session they will be evaluated and given feedback on their performance.

The administrative staff will then evaluate each CIT for continuation in the training program, for the following summer session. Second session participation is not guaranteed, solely on completion of the first session training program.

The following summer, CIT’s take on more responsibility during a 4-week session. CIT’s will begin the transition from observers to hands-on counselors. It is during this second session, CIT’s will be assigned their first camper groups. The CIT will be paired with a fellow counselor to lead campers in their daily activities. With continued support from staff, regular check-ins, and continued mentorship they will thrive and gain confidence in their ability to lead a camper group.

It’s also important to note, their new found confidence may spread into other areas of their life. Parents, teachers, family members often remark on how grown-up their teenager becomes after graduating our CIT program. This is by no coincidence, we invest our time and attention into each CIT, so they can flourish throughout their life. We want our staff members to be well rounded individuals that take responsibility in stride and contribute to their community.

Camp Kiwanilong prides itself in having the best camp staff around, but also offers a summer youth program and hosts private group rentals throughout the year.