Tomorrow's Leaders
YMCA Camp Bernie’s Counselor In Training (CIT) Program provides teenagers with exciting opportunities to build character and self-esteem. Participants develop communication and leadership skills through team-building exercises and hands-on training with staff members in our program areas and cabins. Successful completion of a YMCA Camp Bernie leadership program is an outstanding accomplishment for youth to list on job and college applications, and is a wonderful first step in seeking employment as a counselor at camp in the future.
*Please note, CITs are not eligible to work at YMCA Camp Bernie during their current CIT year*
The Program
This experience guides teens through the transition into becoming future camp counselors, while still enjoying the fun and excitement of being a camper. Our CITs play a significant role in leading our spirited and caring camper community, and we teach them the best practices of successful camp counselors. Space is limited!
Staff
One CIT Unit Leader and support CIT Counselors are handpicked to facilitate this program and mentor the CITs. They are pre-screened and trained role models who teach and exemplify the values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility.
Day Camp CIT Program
Grades 9-11
The Day Camp Counselor in Training Program is offered weekly throughout the summer and provides teens with hands-on leadership experience in a camp setting. Day Camp CITs join Overnight CITs from 9am–4pm, working together to support daily camp activities. Participants build valuable skills such as communication, teamwork, responsibility, and confidence while assisting counselors and mentoring younger campers. This program is a great introduction for teens interested in future leadership or counselor roles at camp.
A $100 deposit is due at the time of registration to secure your camper’s spot, and the remaining balance is due by June 1st.
| Sessions | Dates | 2027 Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Each week of Day Camp | June 21-Aug 20 | $390 |
Overnight Camp CIT Program
Grade 11
The Overnight Counselor in Training Program is designed to develop leadership skills through a structured, hands-on camp experience. The program is built around four core components: Building a Camp Community, Training, Service, and Shadowing. Throughout their stay, CITs participate in specialized skill tracks, engage in meaningful service projects, and shadow experienced counselors in cabins as well as program staff in activity areas. As their confidence grows, CITs move from supporting activities to designing and leading their own programs under staff guidance.
The four-week CIT sessions follow a progressive training model. Week 1 focuses on acclimating to camp life, Weeks 2 and 3 emphasize leadership development, and Week 4 allows CITs to apply the skills they’ve learned while working closely with Camp Bernie staff.
Program pricing includes on-site holdovers. CITs may also choose to attend optional off-site holdover trips for an additional fee; advance registration is required. A $300 deposit is due at the time of registration to secure your camper’s spot, with the remaining balance due by June 1.
| Sessions | Dates | 2027 Rate |
|---|---|---|
| B + C | July 11-Aug 6 | $3,500 |