Counselor-In-Training (CIT)

The position of a CIT is vital to the camp experience; the CIT will be present during many of camper’s most teachable moments and when campers are at their most vulnerable life changing moments.  A CIT is to be a servant/host to those who attend camp, and are not to take away from the camp experience by placing their needs above those of the camper. 

The most important characteristic of a CIT at Inspiration Hills Camp is their sincere and deep love of kids and Christ.  Your spiritual maturity and emotional stability WILL BE tested so it is important that your life consistently reflects to others: cheerfulness, genuine joy, a positive outlook, maturity beyond your years, sensitivity to others, and enthusiasm!

Additional requirements include:

• First Aid and CPR Certification
• 14+ year olds can work with Bring Your Big, Grand, Beginners & Launchpad Camps
• 16+ year olds can also work with Junior Camps
• Must apply for the position and be interviewed prior to the camp season
• Current Lifeguard Certification on file in the camp office for all lifeguards

Authority:

• CIT’s are responsible to report to the full time Counselor to whom they have been assigned for the week, the full time Counselor reports to the Program Director.
• The Camp Chaplain is the coordinator and leader for their individual week of camp, all CIT’s and Counselors work with them to achieve their goals.

Responsibilities:

• Participate in ALL training sessions.
• Know and understand the summer curriculum.
• Be with your campers at ALL TIMES during the week unless you are on an approved break.  All break times are scheduled by the Program Manager.
• Participate in all camp activities during each week of camp.
• Be familiar with and act upon the general policies of the camp.
• Be responsible for the total care and well-being (safety, mental, social, and emotional health) of each camper assigned to you.
• Minister to the spiritual development of campers.

• Before Camp: 
• • Attend training!
  • Study curriculum (plans, lessons, activities) and develop unique ways to use it to connect with campers.
  • Arrive at camp refreshed and ready to begin each week of camp early!  3 PM is the last minute arrival time for all staff, 2 PM is even better!  You should be dressed and ready for kids and your responsibilities when you arrive for the 3 PM staff meeting.
• During Camp:
• • Carry out assigned duties.
  • Participate in all meetings.
  • Welcome campers as they arrive and help them settle in.
  • Keep your campers with eyesight or earshot at all times.
  • Supervise all cabin/family activities.
  • Spend individual time with each camper, but ALWAYS within eyesight of other staff!
  • Delegate and supervise cabin cleaning.
  • Enforce your cabins “Code of Conduct”.
  • Arrive on time to all activities.
  • Report all illnesses or accidents promptly no matter how small they may seem.
  • NEVER dispense medications!  All medication will be dispensed by the Camp Nurse.
  • Assist your cabin group during special activities including crafts, waterfront, nature hikes, recreation, meal times, etc.
  • Do not allow campers access to the lake without a Certified Lifeguard on duty.
  • Help campers to gain respect for the camp property and creation.
• After Camp Each Week:
• • FULLY participate in the final “all camp cookout” on Friday night.  Your week is not over until the end of the week staff meeting has concluded.
  • Participate in the camp cleanup following the meal and evening activities. 
  • Make sure that your cabin or lodge is fully cleaned (including bathrooms and trash removal) and ready for the next group of campers.
  • Take all lost and found items to the office for sorting.
  • Sign your camper’s birthday cards and take them to the office for filing.
  • Attend the Friday evening staff meeting.  
  • Arrange for your transportation home on Friday night BEFORE 7 pm!