Find Your Voice

Take the leap from camper to counselor in this leadership training course for high schoolers. This program is for incoming 10th–12th graders who want to find their voice to inspire younger kids to learn, grow, and thrive. Lead Camp prepares participants to lead not only in their homes and high schools but through college and beyond. Graduates of Lead Camp will be equipped with the skills to serve as Counselors in Training (CIT) at local Y camps. 

Lead Camp

Lead is a two-week camp that runs July 8–12 and July 15–19 at all locations. 

Counselor in Training Camps:

  • July 22–26
  • July 29–August 2
  • August 12–16
  • August 19–23
  • August 26–28

Registration for Day Camp opens in February

  • February 1 at 6:00 am: 2023 Day Camp participants, current YMCA Before & After-School Enrichment participants, and current YMCA Early Education participants
  • February 6 at 6:00 am: Facility Members of the YMCA of Greater Seattle
  • February 13 at 6:00 am: Open to all, including interest list
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Find the Info You Need to Know

Learn more about Lead and CIT Camp hours, registration, financial aid, and fees below. Read the complete list of answers to Summer Day Camp Frequently Asked Questions here.

What days and hours is Lead and CIT Camp offered?

Lead and CIT Camps run Monday–Friday from 9:00 am–4:00 pm. 

There is no camp July 4 or 5 for all programs.

There is no camp August 29 or 30 for all programs.

There is no Extended Camp available for Lead or CIT Camps.

 

Is my teen the right age for Lead or CIT Camp?

If your teen is entering grades 10-12 in the fall, then yes, they can attend Lead and CIT camp.

If your child turns 15 after June 24 and you would like to sign them up, you will need to contact our registration team for an age override, as our system recognizes ages by the start of all summer programs on June 24 rather than specific weekly camp sessions. Please call (206) 382-5022 and press three for support.

How soon can I sign my camper up for Lead or CIT Camp?

Registration for day camp will open in February as follows:

  • February 1 at 6:00 am: 2023 Day Camp participants, current YMCA Before and After-School Enrichment participants, and current YMCA Early Education participants
  • February 6 at 6:00 am: Facility Members of the YMCA of Greater Seattle
  • February 13 at 6:00 am: Open to all, including interest list

Weekly camp registration closes on the Wednesday before the camp session at 5:00 pm. For example, for camp starting on July 8, registration would close on July 3 at 5:00 pm.

Does the Y offer financial assistance for Lead or CIT Camp?

Yes, the Y is committed to ensuring all families have access to quality and enriching camp programs. The Y provides financial assistance and a sliding fee schedule.

Please complete this short two-minute form to learn more about financial assistance. Our staff will contact you within 3-5 business days once the form is received.

What is the fee to participate in Lead or CIT Camp?
  • Lead Camp two-week fees: $500 for Y members or $600 for Community members.
  • Counselor in Training Camp five-day weekly fees: $25 for Y members and $35 for Community members.
  • Counselor in Training Camp three-day weekly fees:  $15 for Y members and $25 for Community members (only for short weeks due to holidays and school schedules, as indicated above)

A deposit of $15 per week per camper is due upon registration. Payments draft on the Saturday two weeks before each camp. For example, for camp starting on July 8, payment will be drafted on June 30.

The Y is committed to ensuring all families have access to quality and enriching camp programs. The Y provides financial assistance and a sliding fee schedule. Please complete this short two-minute form to learn more about financial assistance. Our staff will contact you within 3-5 business days once the form is received. 

What is the difference between Lead and CIT Camp?

Our Lead camp is a 10-day camp program designed specifically to help teens be ready to lead younger campers. We will work on developing their facilitation skills for leading activities and games, problem-solving for navigating logistics and schedules, and having fun with other campers their age.

Our Lead Camp can be a stand-alone program, or it can also be the pre-requisite to being placed as a Counselor in Training (CIT) at one of our camp locations where they can put their new skills to the test. CITs can practice their new learning and build a resume for future jobs. CITs can also earn service hours toward their graduation requirements.

What happens if there are school schedule changes from snow or strike days?

We recognize that these schedules are ever evolving.  We will adjust camp program dates and fees if needed and communicate any changes with you. Thanks for your patience and flexibility.

What is your cancellation or change policy?

For cancellations, changes, or transfers, we require written notice via this form by end of day on Wednesday, 12 days prior to the start of the session week. For example, for camp starting on July 10, cancellations must be made by June 28.

Camp deposits are non-refundable and may not be transferred to account balances except for other camp programs. The Y reserves the right to charge a $25 fee for multiple registration changes. No refunds or credits will be given for absences, withdrawals, disciplinary suspensions, or removal of a camper.

Failure to complete requirements for attendance, including paperwork and payment, that result in days missed from camp will not be refunded or credited.

Weekly day camp fees will not be pro-rated, refunded, or credited for missed days of camp in a week. 

Who can I contact with registration questions?

Please email us at registration@seattleymca.org or call (206) 382-5022 and press three. Our registration team is available between the hours of 7:00 am–5:00 pm, Monday–Friday.

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Great Summers Start at the Y

Join the Y

The Y is where families thrive, communities come together, and whole person health is achieved - for all. Join today and enjoy discounted members-only rates for day camp, swim lessons, and sports!

Overnight Camp

Camp Colman and Camp Orkila offer kids and teens the chance to explore their individuality, become a part of their own community, and enjoy outdoor experiences like archery, rock climbing, and s’mores over the campfire.

Teen Outdoor Expeditions

Boys & Girls Outdoor Leadership Development expeditions inspire youth ages 11 to 18 to be their most courageous and confident selves as they learn new skills, make lifelong friends, and run towards adventure.

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