4-H and SELT Nature-Based Counselor-in-Training Summer Program Applications Due

Mixed Online/In-Person

The Southeast Land Trust, Burley Farms
247 North River Road
Epping, NH 03042
United States


CIT Application Deadline: March 20, 2026

Application deadline in March 20, with applicants being notified by March 27 of their acceptance. Upon acceptance, CITs will have to register through Zsuites. A link will be sent to complete their registration. 

APPLY HERE

Are you ready to grow your confidence, build leadership skills, and foster meaningful connections while making a positive difference in the lives of younger children? The Nature-Based Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Summer Program is designed for early teens who are ready to take their first step into leadership within a supportive, structured outdoor learning environment. Participation in the program is competitive and requires an application as only twelve teens will be selected to participate. Interested teens will demonstrate readiness, curiosity, and a commitment to learning in a collaborative, nature-based setting in their application. 

Ages: 13-14 years (Must be 13 years of age by June 30) 


CIT Participation Requirements

Training Dates: Thursday, July 9 and Friday, July 10, 2026

Time: 9am-12pm (Both days)

CITs are expected to participate in at least one of the following week-long camps:

  • Camp ATLAS: July 27–31, 2026 Time: 9am-3pm
  • Eco Camp: July 20–24, 2026   Time: 9am-4pm
  • Farm Camp: August 3–7, 2026 Time: 9am-1pm 
    Descriptions of each camp can be found here: Summer Camps

Where: 
The Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire 
Burley Farms
247 North River Road 
Epping, NH 03042

Cost: FREE!


About the Nature-Based Summer Counselor-in-Training Program

CITs Will Learn:

  • How to be a supportive and positive role model
  • Communication, teamwork, and leadership skills
  • Safe, respectful engagement with peers and the natural environment
  • Reflection and self-awareness through daily check-ins and group reflections
  • Transferrable skills for school, sports, and future jobs

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist camp staff with setup, games, transitions, and group organization (with opportunities to lead activities, based on personal goals and confidence)
  • Support campers during activities and free-play moments
  • Participate in daily reflection circles and leadership check-ins

Skills Developed:

  • Leadership Confidence
  • Social and Emotional Learning Skills
  • Collaboration and Problem-Solving
  • Organizational and Communication skills
  • Introductory Outdoor Skills and Environmental Stewardship

Support & Supervision:

CITs are never “on their own.” Participants receive:

  • Close supervision by Camp Coordinators, Counselors, and Lead Educators
  • Structured mentoring and daily feedback
  • Clear expectations and guidance in a nurturing environment

Nature-Based Counselor-in-Training Summer Program
A Partnership of the University of New Hampshire, 4-H, and The Southeast Land Trust of New Hampshire

SELT ATLAS Counselors
Contact
  • Kristin Eberl, Extension 4-H Field Specialist, Youth Behavioral Health & Wellness

    kristin.eberl@unh.edu

     

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