Leaders and CIT's - thanks for a great summer 2010 - what a wonderful summer it was. We will keep in touch and see you all for summer 2011! Watch the website for information on registration for summer 2011.
A two-week camp for inspired teens (high school freshman, sophomores, or juniors) who are motivated to develop their leadership skills and strengthen their individual character. Experience this unique program where high school leaders grow in an encouraging environment, build strong relationships, and learn how to meet higher goals every day!
Campers in the Leadership Development program will learn and practice leadership skills. They will live in a positive group environment with similarly motivated teens who want to challenge their current ideas about their capabilities. Lessons and experiences will focus on how hard one must work to achieve goals and how much can be accomplished by working together as one.
Two off-site trips, which focus on adventure based learning, are included in this special program. Campers will play a role in determining their final destinations.
This program is geared towards high school juniors or seniors who wish to become a Sherman Lake YMCA counselor or have a strong desire to work with children as a profession. Our CIT campers can expect to spend two weeks at camp focusing on the characteristics and qualities that help make counselors successful with kids.
Over the two week period CIT campers will mentor with experienced day and resident camp counselors who have demonstrated strong abilities in working with grade-school aged children.
In addition to working directly with Sherman Lake counselors and campers, CIT campers will engage in numerous camp activities which place an emphasis on teamwork and positive group communication. An overnight, 4-day trip will be planned, where leadership and decision-making skills will be reinforced. CIT campers will be evaluated and nurtured to further develop their skills working with children, but please note that participation in this program is separate from the staff hiring process at the Sherman Lake YMCA Camp. Successful completion of the CIT program does not guarantee a position as a Junior Counselor.
This experience is for those who are ready to experience the challenge of living and learning with a small group for two weeks. The coed group of about 22 campers will be located in the Leadership Village.Young men and women sleep in separate yurt tents chaperoned by live-in counselors.
Applicants should be willing to take personal initiative and be dedicated to continuously honing their leadership skills. With a commitment to creating a positive and caring atmosphere, these campers will share an unforgettable experience with their peers.
The Leadership Development Team is comprised of staff who have exhibited the leadership skills this program strives to teach. They are over 21 years of age, are proven role models, and are passionate about working with teens.
All staff are certified in First Aid and CPR, and screened through the highest standards of child safety practices, including background checks. In addition, Program Leaders are Wilderness First Aid and Lifeguard certified, and experienced at leading off-site trips.
Application Process:
There is an application process for these programs to ensure the teen camper's desire to participate fully and be a positive contributor to the program. Our success stems from accepting the most motivated teens. Those accepted to the LDP or CIT session will:
Be self-motivated, positive, and upbeat
Care about forming positive relationships with others
Understand that leadership is an action that you practice while helping others
Strive to create a safe place where people can truly be themselves
Be willing to create an environment free from the drama and stress typically associated with high school
*Note: space is limited- register early.
Download the Teen Leadership Camp Registration Form and Teen Leadership Reference Form above
Complete the registration form and mail it to Leadership Development Program Director, at the Sherman Lake YMCA with your $50 deposit: 6225 N. 29th Street, Augusta, MI 49012 or register online.
Give the reference forms to two adults or mentors who know of your character. Have them fill out the reference form and mail to the address provided (Not needed for return LDP/CIT campers).
If you cannot print off the forms, please contact the camp office at 269-731-3030.
After receiving your registration, a short 15 minute phone interview will be done by a leadership development staff member.
After all materials are received and the interview has been completed, campers will be notified regarding their acceptance to the program.
