Have fun in the summer while developing leadership skills and fostering growth in our campers. UC Berkeley Youth Recreation offers a variety of experiential leadership opportunities designed to help youth ages 12-17 develop leadership skills, gain hands-on experience, and prepare for future roles in camp counseling and outdoor instruction. Our programs allow participants to grow from campers to leaders, with options tailored for different age groups and experience levels.
Find the Right Teen Leadership Program
Easily sort our programs to find the best fit! Our programs are designed to build upon one another, in a progression that takes each young person from camper to leader. Starting as a Camper in Leadership Training (CILT), and continuing as a Counselor-in-Training (CIT) and then Junior Counselor (JC), the program ultimately prepares each young person to take on a Camp Lead role and other adult Leadership Team roles.
| Program | Age Group | Description | Type | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Campers in Leadership Training (CILT) | 12-14 | Develop leadership and job-related skills while working with children at Blue or Gold Camp. Hands-on experience in a camp setting, with mentorship by professional staff. Leadership certificate provided upon completion. | Camp Program (camp fees apply) | Register via CampDoc |
| Counselors-in-Training (CIT) |
15-17 |
Build foundational skills for future camp roles. Gain hands-on experience assisting with activities in a structured volunteer role at Blue, Explorer, or Gold Camp. 4 weeks minimum commitment required. | Volunteer Program (Unpaid) and Application Required | Send email with resume and cover letter to camp director (addresses on Youth Recreation Jobs Page) |
| Junior Counselor (JC) | 16-17 | Take on leadership roles as paid junior staff at Blue, Explorer, and Gold Camp. Lead activities and mentor campers under experienced staff guidance. Requires previous experience working with youth and at least 500 camp/service hours completed. 6 weeks minimum commitment required. | Paid Position and Application Required | Apply via Youth Recreation Jobs Page |
Adventures Teen Leadership Programs
| Program | Age Group | Description | Type | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adventures Junior Leadership | 13-14 | Small group program focusing on outdoor leadership across land and water activities. Exposure to different leadership styles. | Camp Program (camp fees apply) | Register via CampDoc |
| Adventures Senior Leadership (Aquatic) |
14-15 |
Develop and refine leadership skills under experienced instructors. Choose a skill area for in-depth focus. | Application Required | Apply via Adventures Senior Leadership Form |
| Adventures Senior Leadership (Rock Climbing) | 14-16 | First-ever four-week program blending aquatics and rock climbing instruction. Gain leadership experience supporting younger campers. | Application Required | Apply via Rock Climbing Adventures Senior Leadership Form |
