Leader-in-Training (LIT)

A Leader-in-Training (LIT) is a teen volunteer (ages 16–17) who is committed to growing as a leader while supporting younger campers during Camp Good Mourning!’s overnight bereavement weekend. Under the guidance of Camp Staff and a dedicated Big Buddy mentor, LITs develop leadership, communication, and peer-support skills in a safe and structured environment. LITs serve as positive role models while learning how to support grieving children in a developmentally appropriate and compassionate way.

Core Responsibilities:

• Be a Positive Role Model:
• Set a good example through words and actions—showing kindness, respect, patience, and empathy to campers, volunteers, and staff.
• Support Campers (with Boundaries):
• Help younger campers feel safe, included, and cared for by offering encouragement and a listening ear when appropriate. While LITs may naturally form connections with campers, it is important to remember that you are not a camper’s "friend"—you are a peer leader. LITs must maintain healthy boundaries, uphold their responsibilities, and never engage in exclusive or overly personal relationships with campers.
• Know Your Role – LITs Are Not Big Buddies:
• LITs play a valuable role in the camper experience, but they are not Big Buddies. They are in a learning position and should not take on responsibilities reserved for trained adult volunteers.
• To support their growth, LITs are expected to check in with their assigned Big Buddy Mentors at least twice a day—to ask questions, receive feedback, and reflect on what they’re learning. This regular communication helps ensure LITs feel supported and stay within their role.
• Assigned Big Buddy Mentor:
• Each LIT is paired with a Big Buddy who serves as their mentor and role model throughout the camp weekend. Big Buddies provide guidance, support, and feedback while modeling how to build trusting relationships with campers, manage group dynamics, and respond to emotional needs. LITs should maintain open communication with their mentor, and seek them out anytime they are unsure of how to respond to a situation.
• Assist Big Buddies & Staff:
• Support your Big Buddy and Camp Staff by helping with group transitions, activity setup and cleanup, camper check-ins, and any tasks that help ensure the smooth flow of the day.
• Participate Fully in Camp Life:
• Join in all camp activities—including meals, games, arts & crafts, group circles, and special events—with enthusiasm, maturity, and team spirit.
• Practice Leadership Development:
• Take advantage of learning opportunities by observing how Big Buddies interact with campers, stepping into leadership tasks when invited, and participating in LIT-specific development moments.
• Maintain Healthy Boundaries:
• Always act with awareness of the difference between camper and leadership roles. Respect emotional and physical boundaries, avoid favoritism or exclusion, and seek support if a situation feels unclear or uncomfortable.
• Respect Rules & Confidentiality:
• Follow all camp guidelines and respect the privacy of fellow campers and volunteers by keeping personal stories and experiences confidential.
• Model Healthy Grief Expression:
• When appropriate, show that it’s okay to talk about feelings and remember loved ones in safe, meaningful ways.

Ideal Qualities:

• Friendly, respectful, and responsible
• Willing to learn, take direction, and show initiative
• Comfortable around younger children
• Emotionally aware and open to growth
• Committed to Camp Good Mourning!’s mission and values
• Able to accept feedback and apply it constructively
• Capable of upholding clear personal and peer boundaries