This leadership program gives individuals entering Grades 7 and 8 the opportunity to give back to the program and their communities by assisting our camp counselors. The program's goal is to provide participants with opportunities to improve their leadership skills and to be an example of the Y’s four core values - honesty, caring, respect and responsibility.

In addition, LITs develop skills needed to deal effectively with groups of children, organization, safety awareness and motivation. LITs will leave the summer with valuable volunteer experience, leadership skills, and the ability to enjoy the fun of camp! LITs also get to set their own schedules based on their availability throughout the summer, go on team-bonding trips, get their own t-shirt, and more!

If you have any questions, please contact us at 507-645-0088 or izzy@northfieldymca.org. 

HOW TO APPLY:

1. Complete and submit the 2026 LIT Application Form:
   1. Your first task is to fill out our Leaders in Training Application, which can be accessed on this page or by stopping by the Front Desk of the Northfield Y. Students may fill out a paper copy OR a virtual copy depending on their preference, but they must answer the application questions on their own! Completed applications should be turned into Izzy either in-person or by emailing a copy to izzy@northfieldymca.org. Take this application seriously; you will be accepted into the LIT program based on the quality of your answers. Remember that space within the LIT program is limited!
   2. NEW THIS YEAR: LITs are expected to provide TWO references who are willing to vouch for their character and their fit for the program. Only ONE of these references may be a parent or close family member; prospective LITs are encouraged to reach out ahead of time to a teacher, a coach, or a trusted mentor who would be willing to be a reference for them.
2. Register Online for the Leaders in Training Program (Pending Acceptance into Program):
   1. If you are accepted into the LIT program, Summer Camp Leadership will reach out with an official offer of acceptance and with expectations, next steps, and a schedule of what's to come. Once you receive confirmation, please visit our website and register! This year, there will be a registration fee of $25 per LIT. This is to help cover the costs of LIT t-shirts, field trips, and snacks/food for program participants.
   2. Do NOT register and pay for the LIT program until you receive a acceptance message from camp leadership.
3. Complete a mock interview with Summer Camp Leadership:
   1. It is important to remember that this interview, while required to be accepted into and participate in the program, is meant to be practice. In fact, this is one of the first learning opportunities you will experience as an LIT! Interview responses will not factor into whether you are accepted into the program or not; instead, it is a way for us to simulate the real-life job application process... and to help us get to know you better!
4. Attend trainings and team events:
   1. LITs may be asked to attend a portion of our Summer Camp Counselor Training Week to allow them an opportunity to meet and bond with counselors prior to the start of camp. Once accepted and registered, camp leadership will reach out to the LIT team with details on when these trainings are.

Remember that being a Leader in Training is all about trusting in your abilities and being confident in your potential to grow and improve. That being said, the LIT program is also a learning experience. If you have any questions about the application process, how you should answer the application questions, how to choose good references, or any other aspect of the process, please ask a trusted adult or email izzy@northfieldymca.org. We are here to help, and wish you the best of luck. We are excited to build a strong and enthusiastic LIT cohort this summer!