More Than Summer Fun – RA Camps Shape Kids, Counsellors, and Communities!

Sep 4, 2025

More Than Summer Fun – RA Camps Shape Kids, Counsellors, and Communities!

For generations, summer camps have been a staple of summer fun. At their core, camps are more than just a way for kids to pass the summer months. They’re a place where confidence is built, lifelong friendships are formed, and lasting memories are made.

But RA Summer Camps don’t just shape unforgettable childhoods, they provide meaningful opportunities for teenagers and young adults – helping them grow as leaders, mentors, and role models within the community.

The Counsellor-in-Training (CIT) program was created to help aspiring Counsellors gain real-world experience, without the full responsibility of being a Counsellor.

“The CIT program is a great way for youth in our community to gain hands-on experience,” reflected Noah Bélanger, Head of Camp & Children's Programs at the RA. “Whether they’re building connections with campers or seeking out feedback to grow and improve, CITs play a valued and important role on our team.”

The Junior Counsellor-in-Training program was designed to help youth transition from a camper to a valued member of the Summer Camps team. The goal is to help build confidence through hands-on activities with children, and practical skills through workshops with others in the program. CITs attend daily educational sessions covering a variety of topics that support leadership development with benefits lasting entire lives.

The Senior CIT Counsellor-in-Training program teaches leadership, and how to work effectively in a team setting. This training program consists of practical opportunities, structured exercises, conflict resolution scenarios, personal reflection activities, goals setting, weekly evaluations and more.

“I adore working with kids,” said CIT Maria. “I hope to work in pediatrics one day, so I think just getting the experience will help me with my work, especially since there are kids of so many different ages.”

“I’ve been teaching Archery for around 2 years now,” commented CIT Finley. “Teaching kids helps me learn to adapt my style and communicate with different kinds of people.”

Summer after summer, RA Camps continue to bring joy, connection, and growth to children and young leaders in our community. Their impact lasts far beyond the summer in that it shapes lives for everyone involved in the experience.