Letter to CIT Applicants

Dear CIT Applicant,

The CIT program was created to give young teenagers an opportunity to gain leadership skills and learn the basics of working with younger children under the guidance of their own counselors. It is a leadership program and not just a natural extension of becoming an older camper at SRV camp. We are looking for teens who are mature, positive role models who show initiative and can hear and respond affirmatively to constructive feedback. It is important for returning campers who wish to participate in this program to have demonstrated these qualities and to have had a positive relationship with camp. If the qualified applicants outnumber the available spots, preference will be give to previous campers who are already familiar with the camp, its programs and values.

Unlike the younger campers who design their days filled with play, CITs meet each day with their counselors and work together building trust, acquiring leadership, problem solving and conflict resolution skills, and sharing their ideas and experiences. Their counselors schedule them to spend part of the day assisting and being mentored by senior counselors who specialize in camp's various offerings. During the week CITs plan and lead activities offered to younger campers with the guidance and support of their own counselors. They also have a daily swim period. CITS must attend camp for at least four (4) weeks, but we prefer that they spend the entire seven (7) weeks with us. This allows the CITs to become a cohesive group and enriches the experience. After finishing ninth grade, CITs may apply to work at camp as a junior counselor. We are always interested in hiring people who have the training and experience that can be gained in the CIT program.

Each year we re-evaluate our CIT program and make changes to further improve the campers' experiences. This summer we are making the group smaller and more select so as to focus on those individuals who show a true desire to develop their leadership skills and work with younger children. To apply to the CIT program, you must complete the CIT application, write an essay answering the questions below, and send them with a letter of recommendation. After the application materials are received, we will call you to schedule a brief interview with the camp directors. Decisions will be based on the essay, interview, references, and prior observations of SRV camp staff members. Applicants will be advised as to whether they have been accepted into the program on a rolling basis. If, during the summer, it seems that the camper and the program are not a good fit, the camper and parents will be advised and any plans for improvement will be discussed. If it becomes clear that the situation is still not a good fit, parents will be notified, the camper dismissed from the program, and any unused tuition refunded.

Thank you for your interest in SRV's CIT program. We look forward to learning more about you.

Sincerely,