Counselor in Training (CIT) Program
Program Overview
The camp environment is such a special place for teens to stretch their wings, and our CIT Program gives them a real chance to grow as leaders. With the support of our Assistant Director and a team of seasoned counselors, CITs jump into hands-on training in group management, child development, teamwork, and navigating tricky moments with younger campers. This two-week volunteer program builds confidence, life skills, and independence, and it can even open the door to future employment*.
During their two weeks at camp, CITs take part in training sessions that give them a strong foundation as future counselors, employees, and community members. Local experts join us to talk through real-life basics like paychecks and taxes, first aid and CPR, and how to put together a solid resume. They’ll also practice leading activities, working through conflict scenarios, and supporting camper needs in a thoughtful, age-appropriate way. CITs step right into the heartbeat of camp by observing the daily flow of our flagship full-day program, Camp Victor. They’re placed with a cabin group and two counselors so they can watch, learn, and start putting their new skills into practice. This is where we typically see the biggest growth—when the real, hands-on moments start shaping them into steady, encouraging role models.
At the end of the program, we celebrate their hard work with a special CIT Award and a certificate of completion. This recognition highlights teens who leaned into camp’s core values, showed a true C.A.M.P.U.P. attitude, and made a meaningful impact on our community. Awards are presented during the last afternoon rally, a sweet moment they’ve truly earned.
This application-based program is open to all rising freshmen. While not required, we strongly encourage applicants to have attended Latin Camps for at least two summers. After applying, second-round candidates will participate in a short interview, and accepted teens will register through CampBrain.
*Completion of the CIT Program does not guarantee future employment as a counselor.
Summer 2026 Cohort:
July 13 - 17 & July 20 - 24 from 8:00am - 4:00pm.
Price:
The CIT Program is a two-week commitment that features off-campus team-building opportunities, guest speakers, direct supervision from our leadership staff, lunch, and available bus transportation. The full price of this program is $350.00, enough to cover the various costs and fees of hosting the program.
Application:
Interested applicants can find the application link in the daily Little Squawker (for CLS students) and also listed here. Applicants can email haley.dickinson@charlottelatin.org to request the application link. Applications will go live in the last week of January 2026.
Qualifications
All interested applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered for the CIT Program:
Rising freshman in the 2026-2027 school year.
Willing and able to interact with children of all ages.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Significant evidence of emotional maturity, good moral character, judgment, integrity, and leadership capability.
A philosophical alignment with the camp's core values, including a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.
Responsibilities
CITs will be expected to complete the following responsibilities:
Attend and complete all training modules and sessions.
Be punctual and an active participant in all camp activities.
Prioritize camper engagement, not overly associating with other CITs or counselors.
Lead campers in scheduled CIT-facilitated camp activities such as morning/afternoon rally, games, and structured breaks.
Participate in cabin group activities when observing and assisting partnered counselors.
Help manage camper behavior.
Practice and enforce all camp safety and emergency procedures.
Oversee camper safety during daily carpools.
Accompany campers in late drop-offs and early pick-ups.
Complete WRs (working responsibilities) as needed.
Perform all other duties and roles assigned by the Assistant Director and other members of the leadership team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a Charlotte Latin School student to apply?
New! No, all eligible applicants must be rising freshmen in the 2025-2026 school year.
If I complete the CIT Program in good standing, can I become a counselor later in the summer?
While we would love to offer immediate employment to our CITs who excel, we are unable to hire anyone who has not completed the application process as a rising sophomore. Give it another year and we’d love to see you back at camp!
What is this program not intended to do?
This two-week program is meant to prepare our CITs with job and life skill readiness. CITs are expected to be active participants each day, as this is not simply an opportunity to socialize nor should this program be treated as babysitting. Please know that we expect our CITs to respond to emails, notify their supervisor of illnesses or issues, and partake in other job-related activities. Parents and legal guardians will be kept in the loop, however, CITs are expected to be the primary contact source while participating in the program. Once again, completion of the CIT Program does not guarantee hire as a counselor in the future.
Should I pack a lunch every day?
CITs are welcome to bring their lunch, however, we provide several lunch options on campus that are included in the cost of the program. You are encouraged to bring a snack and a water bottle to enjoy throughout the day and while on break.
How do I get to campus?
We understand that most of you will be unable to drive yourself to campus. As such, you will need someone (parent, guardian, sibling, neighbor, etc.) to drop you off each morning and pick you up each afternoon. We also offer free bus transportation to our CITs. The bus picks you up and drops you off at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Colville Road. Please notify our Assistant Director if you plan on taking the bus.
Please don't hesitate to ask us any additional questions or concerns, haley.dickinson@charlottelatin.org.