Des Plaines Park District program turns young adults into leaders

For the past 10 years, the Des Plaines Park District Leaders in Training program has continued to bridge the gap between youth too old to attend day camp, but too young to be on their own or hold summer jobs.

The program's aim is to provide 13- to 15-year-old young adults with the leadership training and the communication and organization skills necessary to ultimately become a day camp counselor or recreational staff leader.

In its fourth year under Adrienne Wicklund, Leader In Training program coordinator, the program has expanded to two camps at Lake Park, Camp Chickagami and Camp Opeka.

Through observation of staff and hands-on opportunities to interact with campers, the Leaders in Training - L.I.T.s - develop a positive self-image while creating a safe, fun and memorable experience. L.I.T.s learn how to plan and implement activities and create diversified recreational opportunities that help young children get active, be healthy, and experience a wide variety of pastimes.

"It is a learning-by-doing program, providing an extra set of hands and a liaison between campers and counselors," Wicklund said.

Supervised by camp staff at all times, the L.I.T.s gradually assume more responsibilities as the summer progresses.

"Many spend as many as three years in the program" Wicklund said. "Leaders in Training apply in the spring for the positions available, currently eight at Camp Chickagami and four at Camp Opeka. They need the recommendation of their school principal, are interviewed and write a personal statement detailing their reasons for wanting to be a part of the program," she said.

The L.I.T.s must also be willing to spend a minimum of three weeks of the summer at one of the camps.

"While our camp ration stands at 10 to one, the L.I.T.s can give campers one-on-one attention, within their group. For example, this week, one of the leaders taught a camper how to bait his hook, and catch a fish," Wicklund said. "They help others build self-confidence, while developing their own self-reliance."

L.I.T.s also engage in team-building activities, brainstorming sessions and learn about the rights and responsibilities of leadership and service to others.

"Being an L.I.T. has its rewards, as well," Wicklund said.

The leaders have the opportunity to participate in all of the campers' activities, including taking a daily swim at the neighborhood pools and at Camp Chickagami. They also take two weekly field trips to water parks and entertainment centers.

"Learning to work on a team, putting the needs of others ahead of their own, proper mediation and language skills, all while enjoying the amenities the Des Plaines Park District camps have to offer, is a great way to spend the summer," Wicklund said.

For details about Des Plaines Park District summer camps and the Leaders in Training program, call (847) 391-5700 or visit desplainesparks.org.