Leader in Training Program
The Leader in Training (LIT) program has been an important part of the Kintail community for decades. It is an opportunity for youth who are 16 years old or turning 16 this year, to form close, life long relationships with folks they may otherwise never have had a chance to meet! LITs live and work together in a community at camp, all while learning and growing in God's creation. LITs will still get to enjoy all the fun activities our campers experience here at Kintail!
What does an LIT's time at camp look like?
Leaders in Training (LITs) come to Kintail for two weeks during the summer to live in community and develop important leadership skills. Throughout the program, the LITs work closely with Kintail’s LIT Resource Counsellors, who lead them through sessions, activities, and serve as their go-to for any questions or needs.
During the two-week program, LITs get the chance to try a variety of fun camp activities, such as archery, arts and crafts, high ropes, the giant swing, beach time, chapel, outdoor living skills, and more! But it’s the "and more" that really makes this experience special. LITs engage in sessions on topics like leadership, communication, creative counseling, and team-building exercises, all while creating memories and having time for personal reflection. It’s a perfect balance of learning and fun that truly sets this camp session apart.
After completing the program, LITs have the option to return to camp for additional in-cabin weeks, where they gain hands-on experience working alongside Kintail staff. During these in-cabin weeks, LITs will practice what they’ve learned by supporting cabin counselors and staff members. While in the cabins or working with the support staff, LITs will participate in check-ins and sessions with other LITs. They will also take on key leadership responsibilities such as leading a FLASH (Faith, Learning, and Sharing) session, running a campfire, preparing morning chapel, leading a morning activity, and assisting cabin counselors.
In-cabin weeks are optional and can be arranged in person by discussing preferred return dates with the LIT Resource Counsellors. There’s no need to coordinate these dates during the registration process, as LITs can confirm their participation in in-cabin weeks directly with the staff. If an LIT is staying for the following week’s cabin session, they can stay through the weekend. Otherwise, they must return home at the end of their current session.
By the end of the LIT program, participants will have gained valuable life skills that will help them in their final years of high school and in the workplace. Many LITs go on to work as staff at Kintail the following summer, bringing the skills and experiences they’ve gained to help create magical camp memories for future generations of campers.
Accommodations
LIT’s at Camp Kintail stay in our newest, year round building called ‘the Nest.’ There are dormitory style rooms with air conditioning and lots of space. The washrooms are designed to be comfortable and flexible for living in community with private spaces for showering and toilets. During the two week program, all campers will live in this space together. Then, LIT's have the opportunity to volunteer at Kintail! LIT’s will stay in cabin with other staff and campers as they learn more about what it means to be a leader at camp and in community.
