CIT Program

COUNSELOR IN TRAINING

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

The Program

The CIT program at the Hidden Valley 4-H Camp is a one-week training session with the goal of creating excellent counselors to serve a new generation of campers. Upon completion of the CIT training, campers will be evaluated on their performance which will determine their eligibility to apply for a Junior Counselor position the following summer.

What are the 2024 Dates and Rates?

The CIT program is an intense experience that prepares teens to become counselors at Hidden Valley 4-H Camp.  The program dates for the summer of 2024 are week 2 and 5.  The rate for this program is $499. Drop off with be on Sundays between 2-3:30 pm

Who is eligible?

A CIT must be at least 16 years of age by July 1, 2023. This rule is necessary to be of the correct age when starting as a Senior Counselor.  CITs should have a sincere interest in wanting to learn skills that will make them excellent counselors in the future. Campers who are only interested in socializing with their friends at camp are not encouraged to apply. Spaces are limited. We are looking for youth who display a good attitude toward others, exemplify the four H's (Head, Heart, Hands, and Health), demonstrate self-respect, and have a genuine interest in working with children.

Description

The 3 main goals of the CIT program are to train potential staff, provide personal growth, and promote leadership development. This one-week training program concentrates on leadership training, team building, skill development, service to camp, and personal growth. The program will provide a time of transition for each participant as they develop from campers to counselors.

CITs will learn that the role of a positive mentor and teacher is essential to their successful future as a Camp Counselor. Gaining this experience will involve learning, modeling, and practicing how to lead songs, games, and discussions. CITs will actively participate in each of the camp program areas where they will learn hands-on what it takes to teach and encourage campers in campfire cooking,  cooking, drama, free swim, health & fitness, nature, press corps, outdoor adventures, sports, swim lessons, water games and more!

Participants will then take what they have learned and plan and facilitate their own activities for small groups and the entire camp. They will also have ample opportunities to ask questions, reflect on their experiences, and share their successes.

Team building is the core of this program. Throughout the CIT experience, campers will engage in several exercises and challenges to prepare them for working as a team, dealing with difficult situations, and making successful choices.

If you or your parents have any questions, please feel free to contact Camp Director, Bruce Condie, at (607) 535-7161, or email bcc5@cornell.edu

Last updated February 12, 2024