LITs (leaders in training)
10th–12th grade
Amplify’s Leader in Training (LIT) program is an empowering adventure like no other, combining leadership development with the fun and creativity of camp. Over several weeks, LITs dive deep into what it means to lead, build community, and positively impact the world around them. With opportunities to design and lead electives, collaborate on camp-wide service projects, and participate in off-campus trips, LITs develop lifelong skills while forming tight-knit friendships. Whether your teen is new to Amplify or a returning camper, this program offers them the chance to grow, challenge themselves, and leave a lasting impact. To enroll, campers must submit a video application to demonstrate their leadership potential.
As campers grow and evolve, their camp experience should grow with them! That’s why our new LIT (Leaders in Training) program is designed to provide older campers with advanced challenges, unique privileges, and invaluable opportunities to develop as leaders and role models. This program is ideal for youth in grades 10th-12th who are eager to take on leadership roles while enjoying everything camp has to offer. For those who prefer a more traditional camp experience, our “Legends” program allows them to participate fully in camp without the added responsibilities of the LIT program. To enroll in the LIT program, there is an additional step: interested campers must submit a short video to [email protected] answering the following questions: “Why do you want to be a part of the LIT program?” and “What leadership qualities do you bring to the camp community?” This ensures we can tailor the experience to each camper’s strengths and goals.
Leadership and Development Opportunities
- Designated Mentor on Staff: Each LIT is paired with a mentor who specializes in leadership development, providing personalized guidance and support.
- Design and Lead an Elective: LITs have the opportunity to create and lead an elective for younger campers, giving them real-world experience in teaching and leadership.
- Leadership in Action Days: LITs take the lead in organizing and executing a camp-wide service project or event, from planning to implementation.
- Public Speaking and Presentation Skills Workshop: Training sessions to develop confident public speaking and presentation skills, culminating in leading a camp-wide event.
- Reflective Journaling and Leadership Portfolio: LITs maintain a journal and compile a leadership portfolio throughout the session, documenting personal growth, reflections, and accomplishments.
Special Privileges and Experiences
- Senior Privileges: LITs enjoy privileges like a later bedtime, exclusive events, and an overnight trip to enhance their camp experience.
- Off-Campus Weekly Trips: Participate in exciting and bonding activities such as adventure parks, kayaking, and more, fostering team spirit and leadership.
- Adventure Leadership Challenges: Participate in high-energy, team-based challenges that test leadership, cooperation, and problem-solving skills in a fun environment.
- LIT-Only Social Events: Exclusive social events like movie nights, themed parties, or game nights to strengthen the bonds within the LIT group.
Creative and Collaborative Opportunities
- Professional-Level Capstone Project: LITs work on a significant project that demonstrates their leadership skills, creativity, and teamwork, culminating in a final presentation or performance.
- MC The Showcase: LITs take on the role of Master of Ceremonies for the camp’s showcase event, honing their public speaking and event management skills.
- Creative Collaboration Project: Work with other LITs to design and execute a creative project that leaves a lasting impact on camp, such as a mural, new camp tradition, or performance.
Community Engagement and Service
- Community Service Opportunities: LITs engage in meaningful community service projects that complement their leadership experience and contribute to the camp community.
- Camp Council Participation: Serve on a camp council where LITs help make decisions about camp activities, giving them a real voice in camp governance.
- Global Citizenship Workshops: Engage in discussions and activities focused on global leadership, social justice, and environmental stewardship, broadening their perspective as future leaders.
Personal Growth and Development
- Emotional Intelligence Workshops: Focus on self-awareness, empathy, and social skills to help LITs become emotionally intelligent leaders.
- Individualized Leadership Development Plans: Each LIT works with their mentor to create a personalized leadership development plan, setting specific goals and receiving feedback throughout the session.
- Career Exploration Activities: LITs explore potential career paths through workshops, guest speakers, and hands-on projects related to their interests.
- Camp Internship Opportunities: Intern at camp in a specific area of interest (e.g., live sound, teaching, administration), providing real-world experience and mentorship.
Social Connection and Fun
- A Close-Knit and Supportive Group: LITs form a tight-knit group of lifelong friends, supporting each other throughout their leadership journey.
- Campfire Storytelling Leadership: LITs take turns leading campfire storytelling sessions, honing their ability to engage and captivate an audience.
- Read our blog post about the importance of leadership programs for teens here
