Get outside, learn skills, develop resiliency, and have fun.
In a time when teenagers are becoming more glued to technology, our Campers in Leadership Training (CILT) program brings participants into nature, teaches them valuable lessons about the outside world, and molds them into capable young adults.
CILTs learn from experience as they shadow counselors and develop an appreciation for hard work and the great outdoors. More than assistants, they have the opportunity to lead activities and projects and design curriculum. They attend weekly leadership trainings and set specific and achievable goals for the summer.
The CILT program is one part structured learning, one part self-guided leadership, and a big helping of fun and adventure for youth ages 12-15. There is an interview process after registration has been completed.
Activities
- Shadowing counselors
- Facilitating activities for younger people
- Mentorship from older staff
- Leadership and job preparedness training
- Goal setting and accomplishment
Dates
- 3-week sessions June 16-August 15, 2025 (closed June 19 and July 4)
Find available dates here.
Hours
7:30am-5:30pm
Locations
To be determined by the county school board in Spring 2025.
- Enka District: Sandhill, Pisgah, or Hominy Valley
- McDowell District: Eastfield, Glenwood, Marion, Nebo, North Cove, Old Fort, Pleasant Gardens, and West Marion
- Owen District: WD Williams or Black Mountain
- Reynolds District: Oakley, Haw Creek, Fairview, or Charles Bell
- Roberson District: Avery's Creek, Estes, or Glen Arden
- YMCA Youth Services Center at Beaverdam
If you'd like more information, click here to inquire.
CILT Program FAQ
Financial assistance is available for qualified applicants. Click here to apply.
- The amount of financial assistance that can be provided will be dependent on income and other factors. Please have financial documents ready before you apply.
The Camper in Leadership Training (CILT) program is for youth ages 12-15.
CILT Camp starts on a different date every year depending on a variety of factors.
Daily schedules vary greatly, but a typical day looks like:
| Sample CILT Schedule | |
|---|---|
| 8am | Child drop-off, free time |
| 9am | Groups separated, activity 1 starts |
| 12:30pm | Lunch |
| 1:30pm | Activity 2 |
| 4pm | Child pick-up |
Parents typically provide lunch, but the Y can provide it if required. Ask the camp director if you would like lunches provided for your child at summer day camp.
Click here to learn more about our packed-lunch policy and guidelines.
Food from home guidelines
Your child should come to CILT Camp with:
- Backpack
- Active clothes that are OK to get dirty
- Active sneakers
- Sunblock
- Brimmed hat
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
- Any medications they will need through the day
- Allergy medicine, including an EpiPen if prescribed
If your child will need anything besides what is listed here, a YMCA staff member will let you know.
Why parents and kids love the CILT program
See what families say about us.
Info for parents
As a parent, you need to be comfortable leaving your child in our care. See our Parent Handbook to learn about our protocols and policies.
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