Teen Programs

Teen Camp:  Teen Camp is for older campers entering grades 9-11 who love camp and want an extended experience full of opportunities for personal growth and fun. The two-week sessions (weekend included) emphasize self-discovery, teamwork, personal responsibility and positive communication. Strong friendships will develop as Teen Campers spend time on the challenge course, participate in traditional camp activities and gain outdoor living skills using the Leave No Trace principles. Teen Campers live in rustic River Village and are led by a team of experienced and outstanding counselors. During the second week of the session Teens will have the opportunity to use their newly learned skills and enhance their friendships by participating in a two-day rafting adventure on the Deschutes River. The trip will be led by experienced guides of  River Drifters and YMCA staff. This trip offers challenging rapids and an opportunity to explore the river canyon environment with a night of camping under the stars. 

Teen XL: The Teen XL (Extreme Leadership) program is a two-week, team-based experiential learning program for campers who are seeking adventure, increased leadership opportunities and want to take their teen experience to the next level.

Teen XL introduces campers to the skills and practices of great leaders. Throughout the two-week program (weekend included), campers will put these skills to the test as they play a dynamic role as member of a high functioning team. A major focus of Teen XL is the development of individuals to be successful in all areas of life, particularly those they are passionate about.

By working together on the challenge course, planning and implementing service projects, and leading activities in the camp community, these teens will strengthen their leadership and communication styles while enjoying the excitement of summer camp.

This program will include a three-day, counselor led backpacking trip through stunning Pacific Northwest terrain. Campers will have the ability to practice their leadership skills while receiving an introduction to topographic map reading, orienteering, outdoor living and Leave No Trace camping. While in camp, XL campers will reside in the newly constructed Tipi Village near the banks of the scenic Sandy River.
Counselors In Training:
The CIT program is for mature campers who are ready to begin the journey towards becoming an excellent camp counselor. This three or two-week (weekends included) program is designed to help older teens develop and practice vital characteristics of leadership and mentoring. CIT’s will utilize the challenge course to hone in on key facets of leading youth such as clear communication, trust, positive feedback and asking for help. The Camp Collins CIT program emphasizes understanding children, respecting diversity, leadership skills and the YMCA core values.  

This is a specialized program that requires maturity and a desire to learn and work hard. An application form and interview are required and provide good practice for potential CITs. *Completion of an application and participation in the interview does not guarantee placement in the CIT program. CIT Application   

Three week session specifics:
CIT’s will spend the first two weeks of camp building a team and working together with experienced camp staff to learn the necessary aspects of camp counseling and youth development. During this time they will take field trips to other camps in the region to gain a broader perspective of camping programs. The three week session also includes an American Red Cross Adult and Child CPR and First Aid course for which CITs will have the chance to receive this 2 year certification. This is a valuable certification that is required of employees within most youth serving organizations. The three week session will also feature a lesson planning workshop where CITs will learn how to create camp activity lesson plans to include safety considerations, equipment and age appropriateness. CITs will then practice the art of facilitation and giving clear instructions as they implement their activities with campers.

During the CIT’s third week, they have the opportunity practice their skills in a cabin as an assistant counselor. Side by side a senior staff member, CIT’s will help lead younger campers through exciting camp activities. They will receive support, coaching and verbal and written feedback through evaluations from camp staff and the CIT Coordinators.

Two week session specifics:
CIT’s will spend the first week of camp building a team and working together with experienced camp staff to learn the necessary aspects of camp counseling and youth development. During the CIT’s second week, they have the opportunity practice their skills in a cabin as an assistant counselor. Side by side a senior staff member, CIT’s will help lead younger campers through exciting camp activities. They will receive support, coaching and verbal and written feedback through evaluations from camp staff and the CIT Coordinators.

Download the CIT Application mail to the Teen Programs Director at:
YMCA Camp Collins
3001 SE Oxbow Parkway
Gresham, OR 97080