Counselors in Training
The CIT program is the next step toward being a Camp Counselor. Campers who sign up for this program can expect a camp-focused leadership program.
Campers do NOT have to have taken the LIT program before this, but it is highly recommended to have taken some leadership training (at camp or elsewhere) in the past to get the most from our program.
The CIT Camp is divided into three weeks of programming. Week one focuses on learning/refreshing leadership skills and teambuilding among the CITs. Things you can expect include teambuilding, a ropes course, journaling, hiking, and taking some time to enjoy being a camper.
Week two focuses on giving the CITs opportunities to practice leadership skills. They will spend time in leadership roles with the younger campers, designing and leading games/activities, and assisting the staff in making our traditional camp the amazing experience that it is.
Week three focuses on giving back to camp through service and on experiencing a bit more of what the job of being a camp counselor is like. This week will continue to let campers practice some of the skills they learned earlier in the program, but will also have them helping with service projects and supporting the day-to-day operations of camp.
This program is still about learning and growth as a camper, although CITs are given more responsibility than the average camper.
2026 CAMP SESSION DATES
All three week sessions run from Sunday to Friday.
CIT Session 1 – June 7 – June 26
CIT Session 2 – July 5 – July 24
CIT RATES
$850 per 3-week session for “Early-bird” YMCA Members who register on or before January 15, 2026
$900 per 3-week session for YMCA Members who register on or after January 16, 2026
$1000 per 3-week session for non-members who register on or after January 16, 2026
$100 Deposit due at time of registration. Remaining balance due 2 weeks before drop-off date.
Click here for our Financial Assistance Application.
ABC’S
Accomplishment
We want all children to have a sense of accomplishment, whether it’s through the bravery it takes to be away from home, learning a brand new skill, or trying something different like rock climbing or archery.
Belonging
Our goal is to provide a place where children feel safe and cared for while they are away from home. A place where they can belong. At Camp Shaver, we foster the feeling of belonging from the moment your child arrives at camp. Since 1945, our campers have been calling Camp Shaver their “home away from home”.
Character
At Camp Shaver, all our programs are designed to develop and reinforce character, with an emphasis on the core values of responsibility, respect, caring, and honesty.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
Camp Shaver’s strongest asset continues to be the high quality of its team members. Our year-round professional staff has a full-time responsibility and commitment to camping. All of our senior counselors are college age and chosen for their maturity and desire to be a good role model for campers. The relationship between a camper and a counselor is at the heart of Camp Shaver’s success.
Our summer staff of over 24 members provides at least one leader to every 4 campers. Two staff live, work, and bond with each cabin unit. We sometimes have international counselors who enhance opportunities for cross-cultural understanding.
A registered nurse is on site 24 hours a day in our health center.
All meals are prepared with your active child in mind. At Camp Shaver, our food is delicious, healthy, and well-balanced.
IMPORTANT FORMS:
QUESTIONS?
Travis Merrill
(505) 595-1515 ext 5100
tmerrill@ymcacnm.org