Tuscaloosa County Parks & Recreation Authority
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Student CIT Program
Volunteering & Job Opportunities

paraKids Camp

Counselor in Training(C.I.T)

About the Role:

A ParaKids C.I.T. is a young leader who helps make summer camp fun, safe, and welcoming for everyone. C.I.T.s help younger campers during activities, encourage teamwork, and set a positive example for others.

 

This role is a great opportunity to learn leadership skills, make new friends, and help your community.

 

What C.I.T.s Do:  
  • - Help younger campers during games, activities, crafts, and field trips.
  • - Be a positive role model by showing kindness, respect, and good behavior.
  • - Encourage campers to participate, try new things, and have fun.
  • - Help camp leaders keep activities organized and running smoothly.
  • - Assist with setting up and cleaning up activities.
  • - Help campers feel included and supported.
  • - Follow camp rules and help others do the same.
  • - Tell an adult leader if someone needs help or if there is a problem.

 

Who We're Looking For:
  • - Kids entering grades 6-8.
  • - Enjoy helping younger kids.
  • - Be kind, responsible, and respectful.
  • - Be willing to listen, learn, and work as part of a team.
  • - Have a positive attitude and willingness to help.

 

What You Will Learn:

- Leadership Skills

- Confidence

- Teamwork

- Communication Skills

- Responsibility

 

Requirements:

- 2 letters of recommendation from current teachers/coaches/youth pastor...etc

- Good standing in school

-Willing to listen, learn and work as part of a team!

 

C.I.T.s help make ParaKids Summer Camp a safe, fun, and supportive place for every child. By helping others, you are also growing as a leader in your community.

 

Fees:

$40 Registration fee per student

$75 per week (All-inclusive PARA Members)

$100 per week (non-PARA Members)

 

*Fees are NON-REFUNDABLE

 

Enrollment process:

1. Your child will complete the application below and submit 1-2 references from a teacher/coach.  References can be emailed with the student's name in the subject line or in the online application. 

2. After your child's application and references are received, we will be in touch to let you know what's next in the application process!  Do not worry about paying registration or weekly fees until your student has applied and is APPROVED for the program. We are only able to accept a certain number of CIT candidates at each camp location, and the total is based on the total enrollment for each camp. 

3. Once your student is accepted into the program, we will charge the enrollment fee to your account, and send you an invoice. You will then be able to log into your account and sign up for the individual days/weeks your child will attend. Please register in advance. We offer weekly billing for your convenience.

 

    High School Volunteer

    The ParaKids Summer Camp High School Volunteer supports camp staff in creating a safe, fun, and encouraging environment for campers. Volunteers assist with activities, help supervise younger children, and serve as positive role models throughout the camp program.

     

    This role provides students with the opportunity to gain leadership experience, earn community service hours, and make a positive impact in the lives of younger children.

     

    Responsibilities

    High School Volunteers will:

    • - Assist staff with daily camp activities, games, crafts, and educational sessions.

    • - Help supervise campers during activities, meals, and field trips.
    • - Serve as positive role models by demonstrating kindness, respect, and responsibility.
    • - Encourage campers to participate and work together as a team.
    • - Help with setting up and cleaning up activities and supplies.
    • - Provide extra support to younger campers who may need help or encouragement.
    • - Follow all camp safety rules and guidelines.
    • - Report any concerns or problems to camp staff immediately.
    •  
    Qualifications

    • - Must be a current high school student (Grades 9–12).

    • - Must enjoy working with children and youth.

    • - Responsible, dependable, and respectful.
    • - Willing to work as part of a team with camp staff and other volunteers.
    • - Able to maintain a positive attitude and supportive environment.
    •  
    Skills Gained

    Volunteering with ParaKids Summer Camp helps students develop:

    • - Leadership skills
    • - Communication skills
    • - Teamwork
    • - Responsibility
    • - Mentoring experience
    • - Community service involvement
    •  
    Benefits

    • - Opportunity to earn community service hours.

    • - Gain valuable experience working with children.
    • - Develop leadership and teamwork skills.
    • - Build connections within the community.
    • - Receive volunteer recognition from ParaKids.
    •  
    Time Commitment

    Volunteers should be available for at least 20 hours per week:

    • - Camp dates: June 1 - August 7, Monday - Friday 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
    • - Orientation/Training: TBA

     

    Requirements:

    - 2 letters of recommendation from current teachers/coaches/youth pastor...etc

    - Good standing in school

    -Willing to listen, learn and work as part of a team!

    •  
    Impact

    High School Volunteers play an important role in helping ParaKids create a safe, supportive, and exciting summer camp experience for every child.

     

    Job Opportunities