Small Acts, Big Impact: What Our CITs Are Learning

This summer, MYC’s Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program is giving teens the chance to grow as leaders, gain hands-on experience, and give back to the community that once supported them. This year, during weekly check-ins, Program Coordinator John P. asked several CITs—who were once campers themselves—to reflect on their journey.

Here’s what they shared, in their own words:

Lilly

“As a camper, my time with MYC in the summer was fun. There were activities to do, and I would have just been sitting home alone if I wasn’t at camp.

Now, as a CIT, I’m really enjoying making connections. I didn’t expect how much I would love bonding with the campers.”

Jackie

“As a camper, I really liked being social and doing all the activities. If I hadn’t been at camp, I would have been sitting home waiting for the Teen Center to open.

Being a CIT can be hard because I’m shy, but I’m working on being a leader among my peers. For future campers, I’d want to tell them that the days go by fast. The counselors are very nice and everyone just wants the kids to have a nice time. You should try it!”

Oliver

“As a camper, I remember lots of different options for activities and open time. There’s more structure this summer.

Being part of a team helping out kids is my favorite part of being a CIT. I remember what it can be like when you don’t totally fit in, and I like connecting with those kids. Getting kids active is so much better for their health—physical, social, and mental.”

Learning to Lead

These reflections show that leadership doesn’t always look like a loud voice or a take-charge attitude. Sometimes, it’s a quiet act of courage—like showing up even when you’re shy, or offering support to someone who feels out of place.

As our CITs take on new responsibilities, they’re discovering that being a leader is about presence, empathy, and consistency. They’re not just guiding campers through activities—they’re learning to guide themselves through challenge and change.

It’s leadership in progress, and it’s exactly what we hope to nurture.

Giving Back to What Gave to Them

What’s even more powerful is how these young leaders are choosing to give back to the very community that shaped them. As former campers, they know firsthand what it means to feel seen, welcomed, and included.

Now, they’re creating that experience for others. This cycle of care is a living expression of MYC’s mission to unlock the potential of every young person.

Why It Matters

Adventure, at its core, is about growth—and not just the physical kind. Whether it’s hiking a trail, speaking up for the first time in a team meeting, or encouraging a camper who’s struggling to connect, these moments of stretch and self-discovery matter.

At MYC, we believe every young person deserves access to these experiences, and that the benefits of adventure—resilience, connection, confidence—shouldn’t be determined by circumstance.

Our CITs remind us that leadership is learned, belonging is built, and impact often begins in the smallest interactions. When we invest in inclusive, supportive spaces like Compass Summer Camp, we’re not just creating fun memories—we’re cultivating compassionate leaders who know how to show up for themselves and for others.

That’s why equitable access to adventure isn’t just important—it’s essential.