YMCA Camp Ralph S. Mason

PARTICIPANT AGE: 16 years old, completed the 10th grade

PROGRAM COST: $2500 (4 weeks)

Camp Mason’s Counselor-in-Training Program is a 4-week co-ed counselor training program designed to provide leadership opportunities and a group-living experience that prepares teens to become staff members at camp, as well as productive members of their community at home. The CIT program includes, internship in all aspects of a counselor’s job at camp, participation in service projects, training sessions on such topics as, basic child development and behavior management, counseling techniques and best practices, communication & leadership, environmental stewardship, and community service. CIT’s are directly supervised by two adult CIT leaders, one male and one female.

Please note that a camper is required to attend only one 4-week CIT session to complete the program. CIT participants may register for additional sessions of resident camp, as well.

CIT participants must be 16 years old and finished with the 10th grade. CIT’s must complete the standard camper registration and CIT application process before being considered for the program. Entry into the program is competitive, based on the completed application and references.
Mason’s CIT program is designed to enhance interpersonal and communication skills while fostering independence and self-awareness. Service is also an important part of the CIT program; we believe that service to others, whether individually or in a community, is an essential character value at camp and at home. Successful participants will come away from this program with valuable leadership skills that will serve them well at home, in school, and in their own community. A sample of the program can be found below:

WEEK 1
Group-building, teamwork, and individual challenge – The transition from camper to staff member – Counseling skills training – Exploring qualities of leadership, conflict resolution, peer acceptance – Basic child development and behavior management training

WEEK 2
Service & Community Outreach – Project planning and follow through – Group dynamics in civic processes – Volunteerism and involvement in the camp community

WEEK 3
Camp activities – Assisting with program activities – Teaching and learning styles – Planning evening and cabin activities – Daily camp routine – Best leadership practices

WEEK 4
CIT Adventure Trek – Camping, outdoor cooking, exploration, teamwork, rock climbing, hiking, associated skills

1. Download and complete the attached LT/CIT Program Application

2. Complete the regular Camp Mason Registration Form.

3. Send to;
ATTN: Don Jennings - Camp Director
YMCA Camp Ralph S Mason
23 Birch Ridge Rd.
Hardwick, NJ 07825

4. Wait patiently until you receive notification regarding acceptance or denial of entry into program.

5. If accepted into program, registration will then be processed.

Note:
Payment is not due at this time. If you wish to get the "paid in full by December 31st" discount, please enclose a check for the appropriate amount dated before December 31st, 2008, otherwise do not send any payment. All applications and references will be reviewed before acceptance of applicant.