Counselors in Training (CIT)

The Olive Branch Family YMCA is excited to offer the CIT program. While emphasizing caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, the program will strengthen leadership skills, encourage teamwork and enhance the teen's ability to work with children. The CITs will learn games and leadership strategies, and will be given the opportunity to implement those skills by working with campers. Each CIT will be assigned to a group where the counselors will give them directions and support as well as some leadership responsibilities. A CIT's responsibility is to assist the counselor, but even more importantly he or she must be a role model for our younger campers. Their enthusiasm and participation will directly affect the entire camp. The CITs will help to establish traditions, attitudes and values, and will build relationships with the younger campers.

The CIT Program will be both challenging and rewarding as each teen accepts various responsibilities. They will learn what is required to be an effective leader and positive role model. We want the teens to leave camp with some leadership skills, more confidence and an increased understanding of children.

Code of Ethics

As a CIT I Will:

• Support & motivate campers
• Assist in the care of campers
• Strive for excellence every day
• Aid counselors as needed
• Respect my peers as well as myself
• Develop my leadership skills and those of my fellow campers
• Have a positive attitude every day
• Wear my YMCA appropriate attire every day
• Elevate myself and those around me to a higher level every day
• Always try to promote character development: caring, respect, honesty, responsibility
• And most of all. HAVE FUN!!!

Contact Traci Nichols, Childcare Services Director, for more information.