CYO Camp | Amelia Estes

Catholic Youth Charities Camp

After I graduated high school, I worked at the summer camp I grew up going to as a camp counselor. This job was a dream of mine since I was 11 and being able to work at the summer camp I grew up going to was the best job. Before I was a counselor, I spent three summers as a Counselor in Training

photos used with permission from Claire Donohue

Each day, I was in charge of an elective. I specialized in art and worked as a lifeguard during pool block. I ran on a schedule created by my bosses and led activities such as canoeing, ropes course, swimming, campfires, and various games such as capture the flag and dodgeball.

I worked alongside a group of 12 counselors, ages 18-25 to collaborate with activities. We were supported each week by a Counselor in Training, who was 15-17. Each week, we had a cabin of 7-10 girls, who were 10-12 years old. I worked together with 9 other counselors to create and run activities for all of the children every day. We went on excursions to the river and beach, hikes, and swim block every day.

The summer I spent as a counselor helped me to understand how much working with children meant to me and how much of an impact the children had on me.

This job taught me the importance of collaboration, working together with a big group of peers, and communication.

Counselor in Traning

While participating in the CIT program, I gained leadership skills and worked on role modeling and collaboration. I mentored young campers and was able to gain a sense of confidence in leading activities. I earned 70 community service hours and certification in CPR as well during my training.