CIT Program Overview & Expectation Agreement

Liberty Lake’s 9th Grade Campers

The Teen Leadership Program is designed to promote the personal growth of young adults. Participants learn about and practice effective leadership skills such as communication, teamwork, goal setting, decision making, handling conflicts, solving problems, managing stress, and relating to others. These essential skills are useful in all facets of life, including at school, home, the workplace and at Camp. CITs learn these skills primarily through daily Leadership Training Workshops and Group Projects.

• Leadership Training Workshops: Our daily interactive and instructive training workshops feature a wide variety of hands-on activities, group discussions and physical exercises. The workshops create a safe environment, in which program participants are mentally and physically challenged. One key leadership skill is focused on each week. CITs participate in one Leadership Training Workshop each day. 
• Group Projects: Throughout the summer the CITs work on camp projects that require significant commitment, leadership, and teamwork. These projects can include facilitating Spirit Events, spearheading camp-wide initiatives like recycling or new program areas, and supporting initiatives that benefit our Liberty Lake Foundation.

Rather than attending five Camp Elective activities throughout the day as senior campers do, CITs participate in two electives, with the training and project periods taking the place of two electives. CITs also complete weekly reflections, receive ongoing feedback throughout the summer, and are given formal performance evaluations at the conclusion of their experience. Along with their added responsibilities, CITs are able to enjoy bonus events, trips and parties.

The CIT program is for young adults who are highly motivated, ready to work and play hard, and who are able to handle additional responsibility. There are several important expectations that come along with being a CIT:

• Minimum Week Requirement: CITs are required to attend for a minimum of 4 full weeks of the Camp Season.
• Do Your Best: When we say “best” we do not mean “perfect.” Taking safe risks and making occasional mistakes are an important part of the learning process. The most important expectation of being a CIT at Liberty Lake is that you will always put forth your best effort.
• Be a Role Model: Participation in this program is a privilege, and we expect that all CITs set a positive example for their peers and their fellow campers. Following and helping enforce Camp rules and policies is an absolute must as a CIT. If you engage in irresponsible or inappropriate behaviors that require frequent intervention, you may be removed from the program.

The Liberty Lake Teen Leadership Program is not for every entering 9th Grader. While some may not wish to take on the responsibilities or challenges, some also may not be able to fulfill the minimum week requirements. As an entering 9th grader, you can also attend as a 3rd year Senior Camper with a regular Senior Camp schedule. However, if your goal is to be a 10th Grade LIT, one day possibly work at Liberty Lake, and learn what it takes to be a leader- then the 9th Grade Teen Leadership Program is for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us in the Camp Office, 609-499-7820. Please do not commit to becoming a CIT if there is anything that you are unsure of.