Camp Algonquin Leadership programs are the ideal setting for teens to begin the journey from camper to counselor. Developing leadership qualities and abilities are important life-long ingredients. Our leadership camps develop the whole person — spirit, mind, and body — through a variety of hands-on activities, leadership classes, and team building exercises. Our leaders of tomorrow begin with our youth of today!
Leader-in-Training (LIT)
NEW FOR 2022: DAY program for students 13+ before June 20th, 2022
This new day program, designed for students 13+, aims to develop leadership skills with a focus on camp activities and teamwork. LITs spend three days as a group, from 8 AM to 5 PM, focusing on leadership skills, interpersonal skills, problem solving, communication, and learning how to lead camp activities. LITs then spend one week practicing these skills. During this time, they will work directly with younger campers while being mentored by camp staff. Due to limited number of spaces in the program (4 per week), spots are filled on an application basis only.
This day program is an 8 day commitment comprised of required training July 6th – 8th and five “hands on” days TBD per student. LIT hours are daily 8 am to 5 pm. Fee: $100
Counselor-in-Training (CIT)
Two week OVERNIGHT program for students 14-16 years old
This program develops leadership potential in youth 14-16 years old. Our CIT program provides a fantastic leadership experience focused on self-discovery, group collaboration, and learning to work with youth. Daily interaction with peers, counselors, and campers helps create tomorrow’s leaders. This program requires a two-week commitment.
{June 20th-24th} This required training week is spent with fellow CITs learning through training sessions, mentoring, shadowing staff, and many other camp experiences. The second TBD volunteer week is spent working directly in a camper group with YMCA Camp Algonquin counselors and campers. Fee: $100
How To Apply for the LIT or CIT Program
PLEASE NOTE: WE ASK THAT CAMPERS APPLY, NOT PARENTS/GUARDIANS. THIS IS THE BEGINING OF THE LEARNING PROCESS. PARENTS MAY ASSIST.
To apply for LIT or CIT programs, campers must submit an application and two letters of recommendation from the following list: teacher, adult family friend, pastor/clergy/faith leader, current or former Y Camp Leader, Y Camp Board member or a local community official. Applications are to be filled out by the program participant.
Applications for the CIT and LIT programs are taken on a first come first serve basis.
A fully completed application and reference form MUST be received before your application will be processed.
Once your application has been processed Camp Staff will confirm your volunteer week and process the registration. A $50 deposit is required within one week of your application being processed.
Please contact the Camp Director, Megan, via EMAIL with questions or concerns regarding the Leadership Development Programs.
TEENS MUST CREATE THEIR OWN ACCOUNT WITH A UNIQUE EMAIL IN OUR STAFF/VOLUNTEER PORTAL. PARENTS CANNOT LOGIN UNDER THEIR ACCOUNT. Additionally, adults, please DO NOT change your information as the household adult to your child’s name/information.
Under 18 Work Permits REQUIRED
Youth Employment Standards Act (YESA)
Public Act 90 of 1978, the Youth Employment Standards Act (YESA), as amended, defines a minor as someone who is less than 18 years of age, including but not limited to employees, volunteers, independent contractors and performing artists.
Minors under 18 years of age must obtain a work permit or a written agreement or contract entered into between the employer and the governing school district, public school academy, or nonpublic school before starting work. Work permits can be obtained from the state of Michigan school issuing officer (the chief administrator of a school district, intermediate school district, etc.) the minor attends or the school district where the minor will be employed. If the minor changes jobs, a new work permit is required for the new employer. A work permit may be revoked for poor academic performance. A work permit is required even if the minor is home/cyber/virtual/online schooled, does not attend school, or out-of-state resident.
Work permits are no longer available for bulk purchase from Michigan Center for Career & Technical Education; work permits are available for printing or download below. Note: the printing on colored paper has been repealed, work permits must be printed, front and back, to be valid.
When both federal and state laws apply the more stringent standard must be observed.
