Mentors in Training: The Next Generation of Camp Leaders

At Cedar Circle, our Mentors in Training (MITs) are a vital part of the summer camp experience, playing a key role in shaping the camp’s atmosphere and ensuring that campers have a memorable time. But don’t just take our word for it—let’s hear from the MITs themselves! This summer, we sat down with a few of these amazing young leaders to learn about their experiences and the skills they gained throughout the program.

What Did You Like Most About the Experience?

Our MITs spoke passionately about the joy they found in working with campers and being part of a larger community. Here’s what they had to say:

• “Being with the kids and engaging with them was definitely my favorite part.”
• “I’ve always liked babysitting, but now I feel much more comfortable being outside with the kids.”
• “I babysit one of the campers and loved connecting with them in this new setting.”
• “I loved being out in nature and seeing the kids have fun in the outdoors.”
• “It was awesome to have some control over what I did. Leading my own activity really helped me understand what the counselors do.”

Favorite Activities

When asked about their favorite moments of camp, MITs reflected on the fun and interactive activities they led or participated in. Here are a few highlights:

• “The games were so much fun and a huge hit with everyone!”
• “Silly songs with Martin were a favorite. They always had us laughing!”
• “Friday rotations—ice cream, tie-dye, and the tractor ride—were definitely the best part of the week.”

Skills Gained

The MIT program isn’t just about fun; it’s about growth, too. MITs shared how the experience helped them develop essential skills that will serve them well in all areas of life. Some of the valuable skills they gained include:

• “I learned how to be social with different age groups, which was really important for leading activities and connecting with everyone.”
• “I became better at talking to kids, but also at talking to people in general. It helped me grow my communication skills.”

The Impact of the MIT Experience

From leading activities to working closely with campers, our MITs play an integral role in the success of our summer camp. Their feedback highlights not only how much fun they had but also how much they grew as individuals. Whether they were gaining confidence, learning to communicate more effectively, or building leadership skills, the MIT experience is an invaluable part of their personal development.

As they continue to develop and refine their skills, we’re excited to watch them grow into future leaders in their communities. Thank you to all of our MITs for their hard work, energy, and dedication this summer. We couldn’t have done it without you!