YMCA OF METROPOLITAN DALLAS CAMPS
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Program Summary

The Gratton Leadership Program (Counselor In Training program) is a long-standing tradition at Camp Grady Spruce. The Gratton Leadership Program is a co-ed program for campers who have turned 16 years by June 1 of their eligible summer.  It is an application and interview-based process and applicants must demonstrate maturity and be able to represent themselves in the same manner that we require our staff to conduct themselves – to the highest standard.

We hope that the application and interview process will help provide you with skills for the next step, i.e., college applications and ‘real world’ job interviews. Our goal is to mold strong leaders who understand that dedication and hard work will lead them to better outcomes when making choices. We are looking for those who want to give back to the camp that has given so much to them.

  • The Gratton Leadership Program is a two-week program designed to teach leadership, community and counseling skills, and team building in regard to working with youth to 16-year-old participants.
  • The Gratton Leadership Program works to develop and encourage leadership, problem-solving, responsibility, and independence, which are essential in our staff’s futures, both at Camp Grady Spruce and life at home.  Gratton Leaders participate in creating, supporting and leading some camp activities while enjoying the fun of camp.
  • Successful participants will have shown themselves to be enthusiastic, dedicated, hard-working, and devoted to the YMCA Camp Grady Spruce Mission.
  • The Gratton Leader will use the dynamics of shared experiences and responsibility to bond the participants. CITs will be visible at camp as leaders in CIT skits at campfires, hosting chapel and talent shows, assisting counselors in cabins and a canoe trip, and service projects are some of the ways CITs will make themselves known to the camp community.
  • Gratton Leaders are campers, not staff. Their special leadership program is co-ed and includes much autonomy. They are expected to demonstrate excellent behavior and be positive role models for campers and staff. They will be held accountable for any inappropriate actions.