YMCA program helps teens prepare for future jobs

August 12, 2012 at 5:43 a.m. | Updated August 12, 2012 at 5:43 a.m.

Eli Raithel, a YMCA counselor in training, said CITs run daily errands through the complex, help get lunch ready and assist with taking young campers to and from swimming lessons, the restrooms and more.
Eli Raithel, a YMCA counselor in training, said CITs run daily errands through the complex, help get lunch ready and assist with taking young campers to and from swimming lessons, the restrooms and more.

While many of their peers spent the summer at sports camps, hanging out at home and playing video games, Eli Raithel and Kirsten Schwandtner were among 20 teens who were counselors in training, or CITs, with the Jefferson City Area YMCA's summer camps.

Issac Williams, assistant director for school-aged programs with the YMCA, said these young teens are being taught valuable life lessons, as they help paid counselors with the daily activities and events at the YMCA's summer camps.

It starts with the prospective CIT filling out an application and then interviewing with Williams.

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