Teen Mentor In Training (MIT)

As campers begin to age up in our programs, we have thought about ways we can continue to encourage “big kid” play while also building leadership skills within our youth community. We are excited to implement a MIT program at Wonder Roots, and see you– our MITs– as an important piece of our summer camp program experience. We believe that you have the ability to create a lasting impact on our summer camp community-- guiding younger students and supporting staff members. As an MIT, we will expect you to help us create safe spaces and fun opportunities for our campers with your positive energy and creative ideas.

MITs may choose to mentor at any of our summer camps. Each week allows for a maximum of about 4 MITs. Our MIT program is designed with a mix of skill building, leadership development and social opportunities. During the day there will be time to engage with fellow MITs, play with, mentor and teach our campers, as well as individual reflection time to allow for introspection, personal growth and connection to nature. 

• Youth ages 13 - 17 years old (prior involvement in camp programs as a MIT or camper is NOT required).

• Interested in working with children and being in nature (our programs are held 100% outdoors).

• Eager to learn more about the natural environment, leadership and ways to inspire play and creativity.

• Excited to be an active part of our Wonder Roots team!

• Gain experience working as part of a team by assisting staff and being an active and positive role model in our community.

• Develop the leadership and practical skills for running camps, such as leading large group games, songs and stories, starting fires in our fire circle, or facilitating/setting up an experience of your own.

• Develop individual goals, and share reflections on your MIT experience.

• Gain a greater understanding of nature and ways to inspire play.

• Start by observing and assisting the staff. As the week progresses MIT’s are encouraged to lead activities, games, and songs with children.

• Share with us any special interests or goals you may have for your session and collaborate with the camp team to develop these into your Personal Learning Action (PLA) Plan.

• Take part in a pre-camp staff training in mid-June (approx. 3-4 hours, date TBD) to get to know one another, prepare for being an MIT, learn the lay of the land– camp routines, games, and more.

• Make a commitment to one full week of programming, with the possibility of participating in additional weeks

• Begin the day at 8:15am and end the day at 3:45pm, depending on the program (community service opportunity for up to 40 hours per week)

First year:

If it is your first summer as a Mentor In Training there is a weekly cost of $15-75, sliding scale. This fee reflects the training you receive as a new leader in our programs. The sliding scale is a no questions asked self-determination.

Second Year: 

If you are a returning MIT there is no fee! Join us for pre-camp staff orientation before helping out where we need you most. This is a great opportunity to hone your skills as camp leader while having fun.

Third Year: 

Third year MITs receive a $100 stipend for working a week of camp! Come help us where we need you most. This is a great chance to take a leading role at camp and earn a solid recommendation toward future opportunities. Third year interns may be eligible for only a single paid week depending on how many applicants we receive.

Ages 16+ Junior Mentors – 

We will have a limited number of Junior Mentor positions available for teens ages 16-17 and who interview with the Program Director – PAID POSITION, number of weeks varies based on need of the camp.