Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program

Ages 13–14 | Build confidence. Discover your potential. Learn to lead.

Chartwell’s Counselor-in-Training program combines hands-on camp experience, leadership development, and summer fun. Designed for teens ages 13–14, the program helps participants discover their strengths, explore future interests, and build skills they can use at school, at home, and in their communities.

Learn & Lead | 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

CITs shadow a camp age group or activity of their choice, learning alongside experienced staff. Through guided experiences, team-building activities, and leadership discussions, participants develop:

•           Leadership and responsibility: Practice taking initiative, following through, and setting a positive example.

•           Communication and teamwork: Learn to listen, share ideas, encourage others, and work toward common goals.

•           Creativity and problem-solving: Explore how staff plan activities, keep campers engaged, and respond to challenges.

•           Confidence and self-awareness: Recognize personal strengths, step outside their comfort zone, and celebrate progress.

•           Career interests: Discover how their interests and abilities could connect to future jobs, including camp counseling.

Connect & Enjoy Camp | 1:00–5:00 p.m.

Afternoons offer free-choice time to enjoy camp activities, spend time with friends, and make summer memories within camp rules and supervision guidelines.

CIT Celebration Trip

To celebrate their hard work and growth, CITs will have the opportunity to enjoy a special off-site trip together! CITs will vote on a selection of camp-approved destinations, giving them a voice in choosing their adventure.

This optional trip is a chance to relax, strengthen friendships, and have fun beyond the campgrounds. All CITs are welcome to participate with parent or guardian permission at an additional fee. Trip details and pricing will be shared with families in advance once your CITs have voted on the destination.

Is CIT Right for Your Teen?

This program is a great fit for teens who enjoy camp, want to make new friends, are curious about leadership, and would like experience helping younger campers. No leadership experience is needed—just a willingness to participate, learn, and grow!

Our goal is for every CIT to leave feeling more capable, connected, and confident in what they have to offer. Leadership starts with small moments: lending a hand, including someone new, sharing an idea, and discovering that you can make a difference