Leaders in Training and Counselor in Training Program

A Leaders-in-Training (LIT) and Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program at camp is like a leadership bootcamp wrapped in summer fun. Its purpose is to guide teens through the transition from participant to leader, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and experience to eventually become full-fledged camp counselors. Here's what it's all about:

Core Purposes of the LIT/CIT Program:

Leadership Development LITs and CITs learn how to lead activities, manage groups, and support younger campers. They build skills in communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution.

Hands-On Experience Participants shadow experienced counselors, assist in groups, and help run games, and camp-wide events.

Mentorship & Role Modeling LITs and CITs serve as role models for younger campers, helping them navigate camp life and fostering a positive, inclusive environment.

Service & Responsibility Program emphasize servant leadership, encouraging LITs and CITs to lead with empathy and purpose while contributing to the camp community through service projects.

Preparation for Future Roles The program acts as a steppingstone to becoming a staff member, and includes formal training in safety, camper care, and activity planning.

Personal Growth Beyond camp, LITs and CITs gain transferable skills that benefit them in school, college, and future careers—like teamwork, initiative, and emotional maturity.

Community service hours offered for completing the program, making it a win-win for personal development and resume-building.

Requirements of the Program:

LITs
•    Must be entering 9th grade (14 years old by the start of the summer)
•    Must be able to commit to 4 consecutive weeks of camp (first half of summer or second half of summer) for consistency purposes of the curriculum.

CITs
•    Must be entering 10th grade (15 years old by the start of summer)
•    Must be able to commit to 4 weeks of camp but does not need to be consecutive weeks.

Application Process:

Application – Please complete and submit the form below.  The deadline to apply will be March 20, 2026.

References – You must give three reference forms to appropriate people. These people can include teachers, coaches, people you have babysat for, music instructors, and religious leaders. We are looking forward to hearing from people who know your character, experience, and abilities.

• Please do not include relatives or parents as references
• You cannot use your Camp Indian Valley Counselors as a reference
• The reference form should be delivered to the person completing the reference with an addressed envelope to Camp Indian Valley. That person may mail or email it to us directly. Please do not ask that the reference be returned to you.

Essay – The essay can be typed or handwritten and should address the following: “Please explain why you want to be in the LIT/CIT program at Camp Indian Valley and what you hope to gain from being a part of the program.” Please feel free to expand and tell your story.

Interview – Please know that we understand this may be your first interview, try hard not to be nervous and answer the questions to the best of your ability. Let us get to know you!

Acceptance or non-acceptance into the program – acceptance into the program is not guaranteed. We will have limited spots available, and acceptance will be based on your application process. A score will be tabulated based on the following criteria:

• Essay and references 25%
• Application and Experiences 25%
• Essay 50%

 Using this formula a score will be attributed to you and that score will be used to determine placement in the program. If you are not accepted into the program, you will receive a reflection sheet that will address areas that need to be worked on and areas you did well during the application process. 

We hope that you use feedback as a learning opportunity and in a positive way. You are always welcome to re-apply the following year.