CIT Week

Ages 15 to 17

Step Up as a Leader: Welcome to the CIT Program!

Hi Future CITs and Families,

I’m Sarah, Camp Director at SJYC, and I’m thrilled to welcome you to our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program, one of our most respected, beloved, and talked-about camp traditions. I hear from alumni almost every week who tell me this program changed their lives. They share how it pushed them to grow, taught them to communicate with compassion, and helped them discover more about themselves than anywhere else.

Our CIT program blends a thoughtful curriculum with everything that makes camp magical: cabins, campfires, silly songs, and moments where you surprise yourself by doing something you never thought you could. It is not just what we teach that makes this program meaningful. It is how the learning, the setting, and the friendships all come together to create an experience that stays with you long after you leave.

This program is about becoming the kind of leader who inspires others at camp, at school, and back home in the community. We want every CIT to leave with the confidence, character, and drive to make a positive impact on the world around them. We also hope that many will choose to come back and join our staff one day to give back to the next generation.

I am looking forward to seeing how this summer helps our CITs grow as leaders and as people.

See you at camp,
Sarah
Camp Director

3 Counselors overlooking cliff edge to forest and mountains

One CIT Week. A Whole Summer of Memories.

Our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program is a one-week (7 days, 6 nights) experience for teens ages 15 to 17. This long-standing program combines classic camp fun with focused sessions on communication, leadership, teamwork, inclusion, and how to make a positive impact on others.

CITs learn by doing. They participate in hands-on activities, group discussions, and real camp responsibilities that prepare them to be role models at camp and leaders in their schools and communities.

After completing the program, many CITs are invited to return later in the summer as volunteer counselors, where they can put their new skills into action, mentor younger campers, and even earn community service hours.

Looking for other information?

2026 Season: Rates & Dates

  • CIT Week: May 31 - June 6, 2025 (Ages 15 - 17) | Note: There is no cost to return as a volunteer counselor following CIT week.

COST: Coming soon!

Registration opens October 1, 2025! Join our waitlist today so you’ll be first in line to grab a spot on day one.

What’s Included?

  • All lodging and meals

  • Personal development training and activities

  • First Aid/CPR/AED certification, child safety training, and the opportunity to earn community service hours

  • Transportation from Phoenix to Camp and Camp to Phoenix (*as space permits)

  • Expert, fun, and background-checked staff, with CPR/First Aid/AED training and Camp Nurse, available 24/7

  • Camp video & pictures

  • LOTS of fun and memories!

How It Works

Step 1: Register for CIT Week
Sign up for CIT Week to reserve a spot in this year’s program. Space is limited, so we recommend registering early.

Step 2: Watch for Your Confirmation Email
After you register, you will receive a confirmation email with important next steps. Every CIT will complete a short written essay prompt to reflect on their goals.

Step 3: Submit Letters of Recommendation (If New)
If this is your CIT’s first year in our CIT program, you will also be asked to submit three letters of recommendation. Details and deadlines will be included in your confirmation email.

Overview of CIT Week

Each day of CIT Week has a different theme, which will guide the discussions and activities of that day. These five themes are:

  • Leadership

    Leaders all look different! During this day, counselors will cultivate essential leadership skills by exploring their existing strengths, and how they can become even better at them. Through interactive workshops and team-building activities, counselors will explore different leadership styles, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and collaboration.

  • Communication

    Counselors will delve into the nuances of verbal and non-verbal communication, active listening, and empathy. The day is structured to enhance their ability to express ideas clearly, resolve conflicts, and build meaningful connections with each other, campers, and staff members. Role-playing exercises will reinforce these skills to create a supportive camp community.

  • Greater Good

    This day focuses on the collective impact of our future camp leaders (counselors!). The day is designed to inspire a sense of responsibility for the well-being and happiness of the entire camp community. Aspiring camp counselors engage in collaborative projects, gaining insights into how their actions contribute to the greater good of the camp environment.

  • Inclusivity

    Counselors will discuss how we can create a camp experience where every camper feels valued and accepted. The day focuses on fostering an understanding of different perspectives, promoting empathy, and recognizing, preventing, and addressing bullying behaviors effectively. Together, we can mold an environment where kindness prevails!

  • Positivity

    A positive mindset is transformative! Through engaging activities, counselors focus on cultivating a culture where positive affirmations, encouragement, and gratitude are crucial. Counselors are equipped to radiate positivity, while taking care of their own personal wellbeing, creating a ripple effect all throughout camp!

  • My CIT Week experience was incredible. We did activities daily as well as focused on morals, meaning that the days were packed with meaningful activities. I made friends with people similar to me, and learned how to collaborate with those whom I didn't get along with. Each day was filled with positivity and laughter, as well as hardcore self reflection. I've learned more about myself here than anywhere else.

    Eliza, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • My CIT Week experience was incredibly helpful and fun. I was able to be myself without being bullied and I felt accepted. I have learned a lot of helpful strategies and skills that will help me in the near and far future. I came so that I could learn more about leadership skills and to be able to put that to use, and the staff at camp really helped me not only come out of my shell but also helped me gain confidence in my areas of leadership that needed some work.

    Nizhonii, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • My experience was absolutely amazing. I started off a little hesitant and not sure if I made the right choice of becoming a counselor. But after meeting everyone and realizing we were all there for similar reasons, it was so enjoyable. I made so many friends and the counselors and staff feel like a family to me. I had an amazing time and loved doing all of the activities and learning important life skills. I will truly keep these skills and memories with me forever.

    Sarah, 2022 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • My CIT Week experience was a great time. I loved doing the problem-solving workshops, and learning how to properly take accountability of the campers. Being a part of SJYC as a counselor is a hard feeling to express. SJYC has always been special to me but this year as a counselor opened up a new and greater love for camp in my heart. In all, I absolutely loved doing CIT Week and would recommend to all.

    Ethan, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • I enjoyed my CIT week because of the people, and the spirit that is St. Joe's. I am ecstatic to be a counselor this year and the years to come.

    Cailee, 2022 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • St. Joseph’s has always made me feel at home. CIT week is like fulfilling my childhood dreams. It’s a great learning experience while also getting the opportunity to make amazing friends. The staff makes the environment fun and freeing while supporting us to grow into mature young adults.

    Abby, 2022 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • I made so many new friends and memories. Without a doubt, being a counselor is one of the best things that has happened to me and learning more about others and my similarities with them is amazing. During CIT week the whole vibe is laid back and chill because everyone there is mature and it's all very trusting. The staff and counselors all do amazing at making everyone feel welcomed and happy. There are skills I learned more about and got better at such as leadership, communication, and maturity, that I know I will use in my future. Overall, the week had provided one of the most genuine experiences that will leave a lasting and amazing impact on my life and others.

    Jed, 2022 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • My experience this week at camp has been amazing. I took on the role as a mentor and I truly loved it. Being able to see new counselors excel during problem-solving workshops made me feel hopeful for the future of SJYC. Being a counselor at SJYC is a life-changing, humbling experience that makes you have a different perspective on life. It is truly amazing. I wish I could stay as a counselor forever.

    David, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • My CIT Week was honestly amazing, from making new friends to learning maturity. It's an experience that teaches people life skills they don't learn outside of SJYC. This is definitely an experience that no one else offers. I had an amazing time and will definitely return.

    Bree, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • Overall, I had an amazing time at CIT Week. I met new people, but more specifically, I made many friends. Not only did I have a fun time, I was engaged and excited. I cannot wait for CIT Week next summer. Mainly, I just am so happy I came.

    John, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • The things you learn about communication and leadership will shape how you act in school and the rest of your life if you take it to heart. After my first year of being a counselor, I decided to form deeper and more meaningful relationships with my friends at school. I decided to volunteer for leadership positions in clubs at school and even became a lead role in a play. Even if you are afraid or feel inadequate to be a counselor, come and get the experience. Everyone at camp wants to see your personal growth.

    Idania, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • Usually, when I'm thrown into an unfamiliar environment, I get a bit uncomfortable or maybe even hesitant. The CIT Week, however, has a certain feel that makes it so easy and exciting to meet complete strangers and become lifelong friends in just a week. We learn leadership, communication, friendship, and everything we need to excel not just at SJYC, but also in life. I would tell anyone who is considering coming to CIT Week that they definitely should since this week has taught me so much more than any other experience I've had, ever.

    Gabby, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • I love SJYC and am so grateful for such a great environment where I feel comfortable to be myself and grow.

    Savannah, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • This has been an amazing week since I stepped foot here on Sunday. Each day, we did something fun and different. The week has really helped me open up a bit more. CIT Week did teach me many valuable skills that I will remember. I wish I could do it all again.

    Niyah, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

  • I believe that my CIT Week experience was insightful, educational, and enjoyable. The activities targeted important life skills that I would need, while being fun. The experience was very positive and helped me make some good friends. Overall, my experience was amazing!

    Andrew, 2024 Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

Counselor raising hand
3 Counselors laughing with tye dye
Group of teenagers sitting outdoors on logs, wearing teal T-shirts, listening attentively, some with backpacks, in a wooded area.
2 Counselor in CPR training
3 Counselors on cliff lookout smiling
A group of young people in pink t-shirts working together outdoors in a forested area, carrying logs.
Group of children wearing pink shirts walking on a dirt trail in a wooded area at sunset, some waving and carrying water bottles.
11 Girl counselors posing in front of cabin
Crowd of counselors walking
2 Counselor Smiling Together
Three young women in green shirts practicing CPR on mannequins under supervision in a classroom setting.
A group of teenagers gathered around a table, with one girl demonstrating a medical procedure on a model, while others watch attentively.
Group of young teens sitting in a classroom or community room during a presentation or discussion, all wearing matching green T-shirts.
Counselors sitting next to volleyball court
Staff and counselor working together with string
Staff and counselors interacting
Three teenagers standing outdoors in grassy area near a body of water, smiling, with trees and hills in the background. The two in the foreground are wearing yellow T-shirts with the St. Joseph Youth Camp logo, and the girl on the right is wearing a
Group of five friends standing outdoors in a wooded area, smiling, with some wearing matching yellow shirts and sunglasses, and one person in a blue shirt and hat.
A girl climbing a wooden A-frame structure with ropes for support at an outdoor camp, with other children in matching teal shirts and a wooded background.
Camp counselor and children gather around a wooden stump in a forested area.
Group of young people hiking on a rocky trail through a forested area with tall trees, some wearing yellow shirts and backpacks, under a rainbow in the sky.
A group of young boys with backpacks at a campsite or outdoor area, giving high-fives to each other, with a large white bus and trees in the background.
Four girls smiling outdoors in yellow t-shirts at a youth camp, with a scenic background of green trees and a bright blue sky.
Children playing volleyball on a sunny day at a camp, some wearing yellow shirts with camp logo. Trees in the background, some children are serving or preparing to hit the ball.
Group of children and teenagers wearing yellow T-shirts outdoors on a rocky area with forest and blue sky in background.
Group of children hiking on a forest trail in daytime, surrounded by green trees and sunlight, with a rainbow visible in the sky.
Two girls in yellow camp shirts outdoors, one pouring water from a blue bottle onto a log, surrounded by green trees and grass.
A group of young people gathered in a classroom, wearing yellow shirts that say 'Counselor'. One person has their hand raised. Two large adults are visible at the front, one with a beard wearing a baseball cap and another with short hair in a blue sh
A group of ten young people smiling outdoors on a sunny day, wearing yellow t-shirts with a logo, with a backdrop of green trees and a bright blue sky.
A group of young people in yellow shirts gathered in a wooded outdoor setting, some sitting on logs, others standing, holding notebooks and papers, with trees and greenery in the background.
Smiling young woman in yellow shirt holding a decorated wooden disk with the word 'STAR' written on it, in a busy indoor setting.

Counselor Specific FAQs

  • No, you do not need to have been a camper to participate in the CIT program. The program is open to anyone who is eager to develop their leadership skills and gain valuable experience working with others. Whether you’re new to our camp or have grown up here, you’re welcome to join!

  • No! After CIT Week, there is no additional fee to return and serve as a counselor for additional weeks.

  • No, teens participating in CIT Week are not guaranteed to return to serve as counselors. The CIT program is a highly popular program, and as such, our team is able to select an even more excellent crew of counselors each summer.

    During CIT Week, our Head Counselor will observe each counselor’s abilities and how they perform during training. The Head Counselor is looking for counselors who participate, are mature, display strong communication skills, and are prepared to give our campers a great camp experience overall. A vast majority of CIT Week participants are invited to return as counselors.

  • No, you are not required to return as a volunteer counselor after completing CIT week. The program is designed to equip you with valuable leadership skills, confidence, and hands-on experience that you can take with you wherever you go. While many CIT want to come back as volunteer counselors, it’s completely optional. The training itself offers plenty of benefits on its own!

  • During registration, you will indicate the weeks you are available to return as a counselor. During CIT Week, our Head Counselor will observe your abilities and how you perform during training. The Head Counselor will carefully weigh the camp’s weekly need for counselors, the weekly availability of all the counselors, and individual abilities to finalize the weeks for each counselor. At the end of CIT Week, each counselor will receive a list of their assigned counselor weeks.

  • Yes! Counselors will receive 96 hours of completed community services each week (excluding CIT Week). We are happy to complete forms for schools or other organizations that require proof of service.

Counselors in yellow shirts carrying pine needles

100%

of Counselors-in-Training recommend participating in the CIT program.*

*Source: 2024 Counselor-in-Training Surveys

Have questions about our CIT PROGRAM?

Contact us!