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

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