Counselor-in-Training (CIT) Program — Summer 2026
A three-level Hawaiian-themed leadership program for returning Aloha campers ages 14–16, set at Zuma Beach in Malibu. Hands-on experience with younger campers, real training, and a clear path to a paid counselor position at Aloha.
Meet the Laulima Group
Our CIT campers are called our Laulima group. "Laulima" is a Hawaiian word meaning cooperation, joint action, and a group of people working together — the perfect name for teens learning to lead a team.
The Laulima experience is divided into three distinct levels, each giving your teen progressively more responsibility, training, and hands-on time with younger campers.
Level 1
Ekahi (First-Year CITs)
Ekahi means "one" in Hawaiian.
The foundational level for all first-year CITs. Minimum one-week commitment. Focus is on introductory child management, teamwork basics, and learning the rhythm of camp life from a counselor's perspective. Every first-year CIT is enrolled in this level.
Level 2
Elua (Second-Year CITs)
Elua means "two" in Hawaiian.
For returning CITs ready for more responsibility. Minimum two-week commitment. Builds on Ekahi foundations with expanded leadership roles, more independent group work, and deeper training in age-appropriate camp management.
Level 3
Ekolu (Third-Year CITs)
Ekolu means "three" in Hawaiian.
The capstone level for our most experienced CITs. A four-week commitment culminating in a three-day off-site leadership retreat. Intensive training designed to fully prepare participants for a counselor role.
Graduates of all three levels receive an automatic offer to join Aloha Beach Camp as a paid counselor.
Tuition
$550 / week
CIT tuition is paid in full at application time. Spaces are extremely limited and we hold spots only for paid enrollees.
Why Choose Aloha's CIT Program
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Real hands-on experience. CITs work with Keiki campers (ages 4–6), leading games, activities, and songs under the guidance of our trained counselors.
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College application standout. A summer of leadership and child development experience is exactly the kind of substantive activity admissions readers notice.
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Real training, not busywork. All CITs receive Red Cross First Aid and CPR certification (provided at no cost), plus daily training from camp directors and guest speakers.
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Path to a paid job. Complete all three levels and you have an automatic counselor offer waiting for you.
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Off the screens, into the real world. The CIT role gets teens out of their phones and into meaningful face-to-face mentoring with younger kids.
CIT Program FAQ
Who is eligible to apply?
The program is open to teens ages 14–16 who have attended Aloha Beach Camp in a previous summer. Since spaces are extremely limited, we extend this opportunity to our existing camp families first so they can enjoy this high-quality experience.
How long is the commitment?
First-year CITs (Ekahi) commit to a minimum of one week, Monday through Friday. Second-year CITs (Elua) commit to a minimum of two weeks. Third-year CITs (Ekolu) commit to four weeks, including a three-day off-site leadership retreat. You may enroll for as many additional sessions as you'd like.
What does a CIT's day look like?
CITs ride the camp bus alongside regular campers, helping bus leaders with games and songs. Once at Zuma Beach, mornings focus on training and learning. Midday, CITs work directly with campers of varying ages. Late afternoons are reserved for CIT group time — team building, debriefs, and camp activities. Each week builds toward a "culmination" on Friday. For CITs attending multiple sessions, the curriculum and responsibilities progress each week.
What training do CITs receive?
Before summer begins, all CITs receive Red Cross First Aid and CPR certification at no additional cost. During the program, CITs receive daily training from camp directors, senior staff, and guest speakers covering child development, group management, ocean safety basics, and communication skills.
How much does it cost?
$550 per one-week session. Full payment is required at application — we hold spots only for paid enrollees because space is extremely limited.
How do I apply?
Applications are open through our CampBrain registration portal. After submitting your application, you'll be contacted to schedule a 30-minute virtual interview with our team. The interview is informal — we're mostly looking for teens who are genuinely excited to learn about camp and work with younger kids.
What's the interview like?
Virtual, about 30 minutes, conducted by our directors. We're not looking for a polished pitch — just a real conversation about your teen's interest in working with kids, what they hope to gain from camp, and any questions they have. We don't apply strict selection criteria; enthusiasm and a willingness to learn matter most.
Ready to Apply?
Spaces are extremely limited and fill quickly. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of getting your preferred weeks.
