LEADERS CLUB

LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

Through our leadership programs, the Y makes sure that every child has an opportunity to envision and pursue a positive future, and to take an active role in strengthening his or her community. Our Leaders Clubs help develop youth ages 12 to 18 as leaders while fostering a culture of service. With adult advisors, teens have role models and mentors who can have a positive impact on their lives as they grow in their desire and ability to be a positive force in the community.

Additionally, our summer camp environment provides a unique opportunity for youth to build leadership skills, particularly in assisting counselors with younger campers. The goals of CIT and LIT camp programs are to teach the general skills of leadership that can be used at school, home and community (not just at camp.) For younger camp leaders (ages 13-15), the curriculum includes working with younger kids at camp, but often includes community components like volunteering at senior centers. Counselors-in-Training or “CITs” are the oldest campers who typically want to apply for a job at camp the next summer, maybe as a Jr Counselor or some other supporting role. They need to learn more specific skills for working with kids and co-workers, and more experience planning and leading activities. Both programs give kids age-appropriate challenges that build their skills, confidence and capacity for working with people of all ages.

SENIOR LEADERS CLUB

(Grades 9–12)

This is a place where teens become leaders in their community! Leaders Club is designed to offer young adults the opportunity to develop leadership skills as they provide volunteer service within the YMCA and their community.

Sessions and events are balanced with values discussions, peer relationship building, and programs targeted at managing all aspects of a young adult’s daily life. Leaders Club members participate in several social outings, including Senior Leader rally weekends that include hundreds of Leaders from all over the Northeast area. This program is extremely hands-on and is managed by an elected executive board of peers and a YMCA advisor.

JUNIOR LEADERS CLUB

(Grades 6–8)

Junior Leaders Club is designed as an introduction to Senior Leaders Club and is operated in the same format. Members participate in several events hosted by the YMCA and perform regular community service hours. Members are encouraged to participate in most social opportunities offered to the Senior Leaders, as well as opportunities designed exclusively for the Junior Leaders.