group of young leaders group of young leaders

Find Your Inner Leader

At Hopkinton Summer Day Camp, we offer youth leadership programs designed to empower young individuals to discover their potential, develop valuable skills, and become confident leaders in their communities. Through hands-on activities, collaborative projects, and guided mentorship, participants are encouraged to take initiative, communicate effectively, and work as a team.

At camp, we provide a supportive environment where youth can challenge themselves, step into leadership roles, and learn through experience. Every aspect of the program fosters growth in problem-solving, decision-making, and conflict resolution. Participants will leave the program with a stronger sense of self, enhanced leadership abilities, and the tools to inspire and motivate others. 

Join us this summer to be part of a transformative experience that will shape the leaders of tomorrow!

leaders in training at camp

Leaders-in-Training (LIT)

Entering grades 7 & 8
Hopkinton Summer Day Camp

The Leaders-in-Training (LIT) program focuses on leadership development, volunteerism, and service learning. LITs build their leadership skills, contributing to the camp community, and working with peers and younger children. LITs are campers and they will also spend a portion of their day engaged in camp activities like swimming, sports, art, and adventure. The LIT program is an excellent precursor for the CIT program.

LITs must choose at least one two-week session. Options are:

Weeks 3 (July 6-10) & 4 (July 13-17)
Weeks 5 (July 20-24) & 6 (July 27-31)
Weeks 7 (August 3-7) & 8 (August 10-14)

Pricing

Family Member $573
Youth/Hopkinton Member $665
Community Member $717

 

 

LIT Experience Highlights

  • Being a leader at camp

  • Volunteering and service learning

  • Social-emotional learning, including skill development in decision-making, problem-solving, creating friendships, and team building

  • Focus on cultural awareness, diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice

  • Walk away with a strong work ethic that can apply to any leadership experience

Application Process:

  •  Register online for one two-week LIT session
  • Complete and submit this form: 

Begin Application

Counselors in Training at summer camp

Counselors-in-Training (CIT)

Entering grades 9 & 10
Hopkinton Summer Day Camp
Mandatory training week 1 or 2
Commit to four additional weeks

Counselors-in-Training (CITs) is for teens who want to join a working team and leadership community. CITs receive mandatory training and assist counselors with camp groups and activities while focusing on workplace readiness, youth engagement, and community leadership. They learn Y policies and are considered for employment at 16 if they excel. CITs shadow leadership roles and attend regular meetings for guidance, ending their summer with a celebratory field trip.

CITs must train weeks 1 (June 22-26) and 2 (June 29-July 3). Then, choose three additional weeks. 

Pricing

Family Member $369
Youth/Hopkinton Member $429
Community Member $462

CIT Experience Highlights

  • ​Attend a required one-week training to prepare for a successful summer​

  • Engage as a team member helping out at Family Fun Nights and camp-wide activities

  • Assist counselors in camper groups, running activities, and leading games

  • Shadow leadership roles in different departments to learn the ins and outs of camp

  • Develop strong, meaningful relationships with adult counselors, peers, and campers

  • Regular meetings with their CIT Director to receive guidance, support, and feedback through a formal coaching card

  • End-of-Summer field trip to celebrate their hard work

How to Apply:

  • Complete and submit a CIT Program Application (below)
  • Attend an in-person information session
  • Formally register online once accepted
  • Attend mandatory training 1st or 2nd week
  • Choose three additional weeks

Begin Application

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Questions?

headshot of adult male Y staff member

Stephan Lockney

Associate Executive Director of Camping Services
group photo of youth leadership at camp group photo of youth leadership at camp