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Leaders in Training Overview

Mission Statement

The mission of the Camp AmeriKids Leader-in-Training Program is to provide support and life skills to teenagers impacted by HIV/AIDS.

LIT Program Description

We do not believe in ourselves until someone reveals that deep inside us something is valuable, worth listening to, worthy of our trust, sacred to our touch. Once we believe in ourselves we can risk curiosity, wonder, spontaneous delight or any experience that reveals the human spirit.

— e.e. cummings

The Camp AmeriKids LIT program is a two-year program which allows former campers who have aged out of our summer program to grow as leaders by participating in year-round skill building activities. These activities include both weekend retreats and cultural day trips in NYC, and focus on developing self-awareness, building conflict resolution skills, and identifying and addressing personal challenges. There are approximately 9 LIT events held per year. The program teaches these adolescents to cooperate, communicate, and work together as a team. It is an opportunity for them to grow within a supportive environment, and get the tools they need to become successful, confident members of a community.

Every fall, applications to the LIT program are sent out to campers who have just completed their final year as campers (age 15 years). After applications are reviewed by the LIT Staff, notification letters are sent out to applicants and their guardians. There are spots in the program for 20 LITs total.

As summer approaches, participants in the LIT program may apply to be Junior Counselors at camp during the summer sessions. Based on their performance and growth at gatherings during the year, as well as on schedules and space availability, some members of the LIT program attend camp as Junior Counselors.

We also have a growing number of LIT graduates who continue to express a strong desire to stay in touch with the year-round program. Beginning in the fall/winter of 2008, some Cultural Days will be open both to current LIT participants as well as interested Alumni. Themes of these open days may include: resume writing, interview skill building, college visiting and how to search for jobs. LIT Alumni are also encouraged to continue their connection with camp by applying to be counselors during the summer sessions.

Previous Activities

Future Activity Possibilities