The Counselor-in-Training Program teaches teens the job skills necessary to be a counselor and strong employee.

The camp environment provides a unique opportunity for youth to build leadership skills, particularly in assisting counselors with younger campers. Counselors in Training (CITs) are provided first-hand experience working with campers and the opportunity to cultivate skills and knowledge in the day camp setting. CITs are selected through an application and interview process. Training and a 4-week commitment are required if selected. Space is limited. Ages 14 - 17. 

To apply, interested teens must complete a CIT application (available at their local YMCA). 

  • Icon: Care Well Trained Staff
  • Icon: Children Playing Age Appropriate Fun Activities
  • Icon: St. Louis Arch Exciting Field Trips
  • Icon: Apple Health, Exercise, and Nutrition Education

Find a CIT program offered at a Y summer camp most convenient for you:

Adventure awaits at the following Illinois YMCAs

Collinsville Maryville Troy YMCA - Maryville, IL
East Belleville YMCA - Belleville, IL
Monroe County YMCA - HTC Center - Columbia, IL
O'Fallon Illinois YMCA - O'Fallon, IL
Tri-City YMCA - Granite City, IL

Adventure awaits at the following St. Louis City YMCAs

Bayer YMCA - North St. Louis, MO
Carondelet Park Rec Complex - South St. Louis, MO
South City Family YMCA - South St. Louis, MO

Adventure awaits at the following Missouri YMCAs

Chesterfield Family YMCA - Chesterfield, MO
Edward Jones Family YMCA - Maryland Heights, MO
Emerson Family YMCA - North St. Louis County, MO
Four Rivers Family YMCA - Washington, MO
Jefferson County Family YMCA - Festus, MO
Kirkwood Family YMCA - Kirkwood, MO
Mid County Family YMCA - Brentwood, MO
O'Fallon Family YMCA - O'Fallon, MO
South County Family YMCA - South St. Louis County, MO
St. Charles County Family YMCA - St. Peters, MO
Wildwood Family YMCA - Wildwood, MO

YMCA Camp Lakewood

Take the adventure to the next level with our overnight camp! Camp Lakewood provides a well-rounded experience for campers and gets them outdoors to connect with nature. With a 360-acre lake and more than 5,000 acres of forest-covered hills, caves, creeks and more, there are many opportunities for natural exploration. Whether it's campfires, swimming, archery, climbing tower, sports, canoeing, cookouts, fishing, and kayaking, every camper delights in waking up with a renewed sense of excitement as to what new activities each day will bring.

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Outdoor Ranger Camp

The Gateway Region Y, in continued partnership with the U.S. National Park Service, Missouri State Parks, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Army Corps of Engineers, is excited to offer 5 weeks of fun and educational camp opportunities exploring nature and recreation in our Missouri parks and public lands.

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