Teen Leadership Programs
YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser offers a clear leadership progression that takes campers from Young Adult Leaders (YAL) learning the basics to becoming Counselors in Training (CIT) with specialized training. As they gain experience and skills, they can advance to Junior Counselors (JC), mentoring and taking on more responsibilities. Then, they can transition into various staff roles, applying their leadership skills in diverse ways. And, for those who dare to dream, there’s always the possibility of reaching the illustrious role of camp Director = ).
This intentional leadership progression is dedicated to nurturing essential life skills for young adults. Beginning as Young Adult Leaders (YAL), campers learn values that extend beyond campfires, emphasizing grit, kindness, and practical skills. Our programs instill the belief that leadership involves supporting others’ growth and self-discovery, equipping campers with the grit, kindness, practical skills, and autonomy to thrive in their next life steps, be it college, a career, or any adventure they choose to pursue.
2 Week (YAL)Young Adult Leaders (Grades 9 to 10)
We are thrilled to introduce the Young Adult Leaders program, designed as a steppingstone for leadership development. This program is open to 9th graders and is the sole option for 10th graders to attend camp. YALs will enjoy a highly subsidized experience, with traditional activities supplemented by service opportunities, leadership development, life and vocational skills training, and off-site trips. The YAL program will be housed in Pioneer (our more rustic) Village and is a valuable investment in our older campers’ growth as future leaders.
Cost Starting at $1,700
Session B – June 22 – July 4, 2025
Session D – July 13 – July 25, 2025
Session F – August 3 – August 15, 2025
3 Week Counselors-In-Training (CITs) Grade 11 – Application required.
Cost Starting at: $1,700
CIT Session 1: June 15 – July 04, 2025
CIT Session 2: July 13 – July 25, 2025
CIT Session 3: July 27 – August 15, 2025
Counselors-In-Training Campers (CITs), will combine their favorite camp programs with the curriculum designed by renowned camping author, Michael Brandwein.
This intense program is an experiential, skills-based leadership course for teens who are interested in becoming camp counselors. Counselors-In-Training (CITs) will learn from veteran staff and will develop the skills and strengths needed to be positive role models and leaders in the camp community. CITs first two weeks is spent in a combination of training sessions on leadership/ camp operations, service to others, and general camp fun. On their third week, CITs shadow a camp counselor, participating in camp life as a mentor for younger children.
Utilizing the curriculum designed by renowned camping author, Michael Bradwein, CITs work to develop Group Leadership, Game and Activity Leadership, Body Language, Enthusiasm, Communication, Developing Positive Behavior, Managing Undesired Behavior, Teaching, Teaching Responsibility and Problem-Solving, Caring, Working Together and Positive Learning skills.
All candidates for the CIT program must apply and be interviewed. Interviews will be scheduled in March and April. The price for this 2-week leadership development program is $1400. These sessions are for young adults who have completed 11th grade interested in becoming Camp Counselors in future summers. Register for this program on the Camp Conrad Weiser Registration Form. CITs must also complete the CIT Application.
CIT Registration Instructions
- Register for the CIT Program. Register Here (YOU STILL NEED TO FILL OUT THE APPLICATION)
- Fill out the CIT Application 2024
- Teens should collect three references and email them the link to the Reference Form. They should also inform their references that we will be contacting them to follow up. CIT Reference Sheet
- A member of the director team will reach out to conduct an interview. The interview will be conducted of video chat. You will receive a link to book a time on our staff’s calendar.
- If candidates are accepted to the program, our registrar will reach out to complete the registration process and collect payment.
Junior Counselors
Camp Conrad Weiser Summer Camp is an exciting and enriching experience designed for those who have completed the Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program and are looking to take their leadership skills to the next level. This program offers flexibility to accommodate the busy schedules of high school seniors during the summer.
Junior Counselors (JCs) have the opportunity to participate for up to four weeks throughout the summer. To become a JC, interested candidates must complete an application and go through an interview process, typically conducted in January. Once accepted into the program, Junior Counselors must be registered by their guardian using the camper registration portal.
One of the outstanding aspects of the Camp Conrad Weiser Junior Counselor program is that it comes at no cost, making it an accessible and valuable opportunity for young leaders to grow, contribute, and make lasting memories at this renowned summer camp.
Camp Conrad Weiser Summer Camp offers a unique opportunity for Junior Counselors (JCs) to take the next step in their journey toward becoming part of the camp’s dedicated staff for the following summer. Through this program, JCs gain valuable leadership experience, develop essential skills, and form connections with the camp community, all of which are crucial building blocks for their future roles as staff members. This program aims to nurture and prepare JCs, helping them grow into capable and enthusiastic team members who will contribute to the success of the camp in the seasons to come.
