LEADERSHIP PROGRAMS

Ages 14-17

There are four leadership program options: Junior Leader-In-Training, Leader-In-Training, Counselor-In-Training and Intern. All leadership program campers will stay in platform tents or yurts while at camp. Age ranges for these programs are approximate: Each participant will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to ensure placement in the best fitting program. The following programs are available throughout the summer, except for the Explorer’s session (Session 5, July 5-8).

Junior Leader-In-Training (Age 14)

Member Price: $918
Non-member Price: $993

Session 1, Session 2, Session 3, Session 4, Session 6, Session 7, Session 8, Session 9 (All Sessions except Session 5)

Junior LITs begin their leadership development journey with the guidance of Camp Santa Maria’s leadership mentors. These campers learn about the functions of camp, facilitate activities for younger campers and discover their leadership style all while participating in camp classics, such as hiking, tie-dying, archery, swimming and s’mores, and favorite camp traditions, including Breakfast of Champions, opening and closing campfires and a bead ceremony. While working directly with our leadership mentors, LITs have the opportunity to become a role model, lead with experience, foster new friendships and nurture confidence and independence.

Sample Daily Schedule

Apply

Leader-In-Training (Age 15)

Member Price: $818
Non-member Price: $893

Session 1, Session 2, Session 3, Session 4, Session 6, Session 7, Session 8, Session 9 (All Sessions except Session 5)

Welcome to the next stop on your leadership journey. YMCA Camp Santa Maria’s LIT program is an opportunity to evolve as a leader, build confidence and make an impact — while having a fun, sunshine-soaked experience at camp. While surrounded by a welcoming community of campers, other leaders and staff, LITs learn about the needs of children in a camp setting and gain more practical knowledge about camp’s functions. Campers will receive trainings that are relevant to their interpersonal leadership development. This program is highlighted by the opportunity for campers to shadow and assist staff members in multiple activity areas. LITs find guidance and support from Leadership Mentors, Specialists, Cabin Leads, and the Leadership Development Program Manager.

Sample Daily Schedule

Apply

Counselor-In-Training (Age 16)

Member Price: $718
Non-member Price: $793

Session 1, Session 2, Session 3, Session 4, Session 6, Session 7, Session 8, Session 9 (All Sessions except Session 5)

During YMCA Camp Santa Maria’s Counselor-In-Training program, CITs discover themselves and challenge their own perceived limitations — as leaders, as campers and as humans. Through opportunities to focus on one to three specialty areas to gain knowledge and experience, CITs grow to understand age characteristics, facilitation and progressive activity planning. This experience provides the opportunity to assist in planning and facilitating all-camp events under the guidance of the camper experience manager. Opportunities to visit other YMCA camp facilities are subject to availability. CITs find guidance and support from the camp community and staff, including Leadership Mentors, Specialists, Cabin Leads, the Camper Experience Manager, and the Leadership Development Program Manager.

Sample Daily Schedule

Apply

Intern (Age 17)

Both Members and Non-members are free

Any Session

Our Intern program is the ultimate experience for camp-loving leaders who are passionate about mentoring, uplifting and managing young campers — and helping them have one amazing summer experience. During this program, Interns reach the conclusion of their camper leadership journey and receive their First Aid and CPR certification in addition to building upon the skills of a CIT. Our Interns design their experience as it is their last year as a camper, allowing them to continue to grow, learn and nurture their confidence and skill as a leader. This program culminates in the design and execution of an interactive project that serves the community of YMCA Camp Santa Maria.

Sample Daily Schedule

Apply

PARENT RESOURCES

Review the parent handbook, drop-off/pick-up times, COVID policies, financial assistance, ePACT and more.

PARENT RESOURCES