(Ages 12-15) Teen Counselor-in-Training

Do you have a passion for nature, gardening, and creative play? Enjoy being a role model for younger children and like to get your hands in the dirt? The Arboretum's Counselor-In-Training program may be the perfect fit for you! Share your skills and bring your imagination and creativity to the Arboretum--join the fun as we play, garden, create, explore and learn together!

The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program is designed to provide opportunities for responsible, positive youth mentors to increase leadership skills by sharing a passion, knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world with younger campers and gardeners. CITs will assist Youth Education program staff in providing a safe, supportive, and exciting experience for all participants, as well as helping out with other projects. 

Top 10 Benefits of being a Counselor-in-Training (CIT)

1. Have FUN!! 
2. Meet new friends
3. Work with caring adult mentors
4. Log volunteer hours and give back to the community
5. Be a valuable part of a fun, supportive, and creative team 
6. Develop useful life skills in leadership and time-management
7. Receive training that can be applied to future job/volunteer opportunities
8. Gain valuable experience while doing something meaningful this summer
9. Share your passion for science, gardening, and the outdoors, with younger kids
10. Take advantage of resume-building opportunities while serving as a role model, mentor, and teaching assistant 

Interested? 

• Step One: Reserve your spot at the free informational meeting via Zoom on Wednesday, February 22, 6-7 p.m. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend the session as well. (If you are interested, but this date does not work, or has passed, please email the Education Office [email protected].)
   
• Step Two: Fill out an application and sign up for an interview date/time. (Applications and interview information will be provided at the info session and/or available online after February 22.)
   
• Step Three: Successful applicants will be notified, pay one-time registration fee,* and then be able to select desired summer programs to assist. (There are many volunteer opportunities and a lot of flexibility in creating a schedule that works for you and your family. Come half days or full days, for a couple weeks, or for many!)
  • *$100 fee covers orientation, leadership development training, t-shirt, certificate, all project supplies, and end of season celebration (Financial assistance is available to those who are eligible for free or reduced school lunch. Inquire by email [email protected].)
     
• Step Four: Attend a mandatory one-day CIT orientation on Monday, June 12, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 

For more information: Call the education office 612-301-1210 or email [email protected]