About Campers in Leadership Training (CILT)
Campers In Leadership Training (CILTs) participate in leadership lessons focused on working with youth and learning general job skills at Blue Camp. The program concentrates on building a camper’s communication skills within both large and small groups, professionalism, career and self-development, teamwork, critical thinking, technology, confidence, discipline, and initiative. From activities such as lesson planning to mock interviews, the campers develop the necessary skills to become a part of UC Berkeley Youth Recreation’s future camp staff or obtain employment elsewhere.
A Day in the Life
A typical day for a CILT begins with a skill-based workshop, where they practically apply skills in a camp setting, as well as other activities throughout the day. CILTs develop their leadership skills while working with younger campers at Blue Camp. CILTs receive an evaluation of their workplace strengths and skills, coaching on how to maximize those strengths, as well as a UC Berkeley Leadership Certificate upon completion of the program.
CILT Program Objectives
The CILT program is for 13 and 14 year olds who are looking for an opportunity to start building leadership and career skills in a fun camp environment. While they are still campers, CILTs are treated similarly to camp staff in an effort to provide an immersive, professional experience. This approach grants CILTs opportunities to create a lesson, lead an activity, or be tasked with other camp-related duties. Many of these skills are transferable and can be used by participants in their future career endeavors. In addition, CILT participants will learn the many skills required to be a successful Counselor-in-Training (CIT) in subsequent years.
Ages & Eligibility
Must be ages 13 – 14 (by June 1, 2026) in order to register.
Location
Campers In Leadership Training (CILTs) participate in leadership lessons focused on working with youth and learning general job skills at Blue Camp, located at the Golden Bear Recreation Center, 25 Sports Lane Berkeley, CA 94720.
2026 Campers in Leadership Training Sessions
| Session | Dates | Days | Time | Price |
|
Blue Camp (Ages 13-14) |
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Session I |
6/8/2026 – 6/18/2026 No camp on 6/19 |
Mon – Fri | 9am – 4pm | $445 |
| Session II |
6/22/2026 – 7/2/2026 No camp on 7/3 |
Mon – Fri | 9am – 4pm | $445 |
| Session III | 7/6/2026 – 7/17/2026 | Mon – Fri | 9am – 4pm | $494 |
| Session IV | 7/20/2026 – 7/31/2026 | Mon – Fri | 9am – 4pm | $494 |
Questions? Contact:
Derika Braunstein, Youth Programs Coordinator – Blue Camp – dbraunstein@berkeley.edu
