There are five leadership program options: Junior Leader-In-Training, Leader-In-Training, Counselor-In-Training, Guide-In-Training and Intern. This summer, the Guide-In-Training program is new and will run for only two weeks in July. All leadership program campers will stay in platform tents or yurts while at camp. Participants are not permitted to stay over the weekend in between sessions. 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) and Session 10.
Member Price: $968
Non-member Price: $1043
Session 1, Session 2, Session 3, Session 4, Session 6, Session 7, Session 8, Session 9
(All Sessions except Session 5 & 10)
Our Junior Leader in Training program is the first step of a teen's leadership journey at Santa Maria and is for teens who have completed the 8th grade. Junior LITs have the opportunity to shadow counselors and spend time with our youngest campers to understand how our staff foster the magic of camp. They will also have time to enjoy camp classics such as swimming at the pool, paddling on the lake, Smorg (elective programming) and also savoring the traditions of Breakfast of Champions, bead ceremony, all-camp evening activities, Battle for the Paddle and opening and closing campfires. While working directly with our leadership mentors, Junior LITs have the opportunity to become role models, lead with experience, foster new friendships and nurture confidence and independence with guidance from our Leadership Mentors.
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 & 10)
Our Leader in Training program is for teens who have completed the 9th grade and want 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. This program is highlighted by the opportunity for LITs to shadow and assist staff members in multiple activity areas, while also having time to join in on camp activities with their friends. LITs will also participate in Santa Maria traditions such as Breakfast of Champions, bead ceremony, Battle for the Paddle, and opening and closing campfires. LITs find guidance and support from Leadership Mentors, various staff members working in Traditional Camp, and the Leadership Development Program Manager.
Member Price: $768
Non-member Price: $843
Session 1, Session 2, Session 3, Session 4, Session 6, Session 7, Session 8, Session 9
(All Sessions except Session 5 & 10)
Our Counselor in Training program is for teens who have completed the 10th grade and who want to push themselves and take a step into the life of a counselor. Previous Leadership Development Program experience is not required. 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 and closing campfire under the guidance of the Santa Maria program staff members. CITs will participate in the tradition of Breakfast of Champions, opening campfire, Battle for the Paddle and bead ceremony. They will be invited to join in on some camp activities to savor the pure fun of the camper experience. They will find support from a variety of staff members with various leadership styles on the YMCA Camp Santa Maria team, from the Leadership Mentors to Managers.
Member Price: $768
Non-member Price: $843
Session 6 & Session 7
Our new Guide in Training program is aimed toward teens who have completed the 10th grade and who are ready to catalyze the growth of their leadership skills in the backcountry. This program is aimed toward teens with experience hiking and a strong sense of determination. Previous experience in the Leadership Development Program and/or backpacking is preferred but not required. Teens will shadow and assist Adventure Guides leading two- to three-day backpacking trips while learning the ropes of successful wilderness trip management—from backcountry cooking to group management to programming guided by Leave no Trace principles—while also learning about the needs of younger campers in a remote setting. Guides in Training are welcome to bring their own backpacking gear; however, items such as sleeping pads, tents and overnight packs are supplied as needed. See the packing list in our Parent Handbook for more details.
Both Members and Non-members are free
Session 1, Session 2, Session 3, Session 4, Session 6, Session 7, Session 8, Session 9
(All Sessions except Session 5 & 10)
Our intern program is the final step in the Leadership Development Program at Camp Santa Maria and is for teens who have completed the 11th grade. Previous experience in the Leadership Development Program is preferred but not required. During this program, teens work with campers of all ages in our traditional programs. Our interns have a hand in designing 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 final step in their leadership journey culminates in a well-rounded knowledge of the day in the life of a counselor as they take on more independence and help in leading progressive program facilitation in various specialty areas. Interns also are invited to lead all-camp activities and closing campfire alongside seasoned program staff members. If your teen is looking for a summer like no other and the opportunity to give back to their Santa Maria community, this is the program for them.
PARENT RESOURCES
Review the parent handbook, drop-off/pick-up times, financial assistance and more.