CIT Program (Grades 9-10)

Our Counselors in Training (CIT) program offers responsible young teens entering 9th and 10th grade a unique summer camp experience. CITs form a unique cohort while transitioning from being campers to being on the cusp of a staff role. This program is designed to equip 9th and 10th graders with valuable skills and experiences, contributing to their future job prospects.

CITs will cultivate essential leadership skills, including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. They will learn the art of being effective role models, gain insights into youth and adolescent development, and build a repertoire of games, activities, and leadership techniques.

Upon successful completion of the program, CITs will be acknowledged with up to 35 hours of community service per week, further enhancing their commitment to community involvement and personal development.

CITs are required to adhere to the guidelines and standards outlined in the CIT handbook to contribute to a summer that is both enjoyable and secure. Participation in the CIT program does not guarantee a counselor position in the future but will be considered based on unit head evaluations.

Flexible Summer Camping Options

CITs sign up by the week so Camp Shalom fits into your busy summer schedule. Sign up for as little as 1 week or come the whole summer – the choice is yours!

At the start of their initial week, CITs will be assigned to their camper groups, staying with them for a consecutive two-week duration when possible. Following this period, CITs will have the opportunity to engage with a different group, allowing them to encounter fresh perspectives from new campers, counselors, and age groups. This experience is designed to enhance their readiness for future roles and working with a diverse group of people.

---

A Typical Day

CITs will be assigned specific groups with campers spanning grades K-5. They will follow their respective groups' schedules most of the day and meet up with peers and camp leadership members periodically. Additionally, they'll have chances to engage in specialized CIT workshop sessions and programs.

Arrival at Camp
CITs will check in at the designated CIT area and collect weekly/daily CIT schedules and group assignments, then head to their group rooms.

Boker Tov
Energized spirit fest to start the day off right! At Boker Tov we sing all our favorite camp songs and enjoy exciting bunk competitions.

Period 1- Camp Group Specialty Activity
Attend designated camp group’s scheduled activities, such as Science, Dance, Archery, or Israeli Culture.

Period 2- Camp Group Bunk Time
A time and place to develop and strengthen leadership in a small group setting while engaged in leading activities with the camp group.

Period 3- CIT Workshop
An opportunity to participate in CIT specific workshops such as basic first aid, mock interviews, special needs and inclusion, leadership development, and more!

Lunch
Refuel at lunch while getting to know and connecting with the campers.

Period 5- Camp Group Specialty Activity
Attend designated camp group’s scheduled activities, such as Art, Tennis, Boating, or Music.

Period 6- Camp Group Swim Time
A chance to cool off with the camp group and play water games.

Period 7- CIT Hang Time
CITs will have the opportunity to participate in camp outside of their assigned camp groups. CITs will socialize with their peers and participate in activities like Water Slides, Teen Lounge, Basketball, and more!

Closing
The final chance of the day to run around and let off energy, clean up group spaces, and provide reminders for the next camp day.

Camp Shalom and JNightZ are not affiliated with the Yeladim Camp program. Yeladim operates as its own entity.