Counselor In Training

Counselors in Training (CIT) is for entering 10th - 12th graders who are under 18 years old.

As a CIT, teens will begin to transition from a camper to staff mindset while learning what it’s like to be a counselor at OVY Camp. CITs will work alongside our staff to learn the basics of becoming a counselor. CITs live in a cabin with 1 counselor and up to 6 campers. They’ll shadow their counselors and help plan and facilitate group activities, learn leadership skills around safety, communication, developmental age stages, and behavior management. They’ll also get plenty of time to bond with the other CITs in special activities designed just for them such as a CIT movie night, pool parties, and hang outs. CITs earn volunteer hours toward high school graduation

Many of our CITs become paid staff once they graduate high school and turn 18.

This program is specifically designed to train our future youth workers. Please ensure your teen is excited about working with youth!

A Day in the Life of a Camper

CIT Check In: Sunday at 11am.

CIT Check Out: Friday at 10am.

Financial Assistance is available for this program.

How to apply for financial assistance.

CITs essentially follow the same schedule as their campers. There will be moments when their schedule deviates so they can check in with their Teen Leadership Coordinator or spend time with other CITs.

ln this context, CITs will help wake their campers in the morning, and get them ready for breakfast.

After breakfast, they’ll be assigned to one of the activity areas for Camper’s Choice and will assist the assigned counselor with group management, and on running that activity. This could be playing games with campers who are waiting for their turn, or ensuring everyone is following safety rules.

CITs will spend the majority of their time building bonds with their campers. This includes conversing with them about their campers’ interests, participating in the activities with great enthusiasm, and ensuring their campers are having the best week ever.

Packing List

Old (not your best) Clothes:

  • 2 Pairs of Long Pants

  • 2 - 3 Pairs Shorts

  • 1 - 2 Long Sleeved Shirts

  • 2 Sweatshirts

  • 4 - 5 T-Shirts

  • 6 pairs of Underwear

  • 2 pairs of Shoes - one pair to get wet

  • 2 - 3 pairs of Socks

  • Sunscreen

  • Soap

  • Chapstick

  • Water Bottle

  • Flashlight

  • Bag for Dirty Laundry

  • Day-size Backpack

  • 1 Jacket

  • Shorts/Swimsuits

  • 2 Towels

  • Toothbrush/Toothpaste

  • Shampoo/Conditioner

  • Warm Sleeping Bag

  • Pillow

  • Pajamas

Download List