MISSION
The mission of the Boston Explorer Leader-in-Training program is to provide experiences for Boston Explorers camp graduates that will help prepare them for the transition from teen to young adult. The experiences in the Leaders-in-Training program are designed to help them develop awareness and increased proficiency in the following areas:
Working with others
Self-advocacy
Service to others
Job preparedness
Personal responsibility
Skills training
Our Leaders-in-Training programs nurture the next generations of leaders. Leaders-in-Training (LITs) learn and strengthen skills and habits in regards to their professional, personal, and community identities over the course of the program.
An identity is informed by strong, consistent habits and establishing effective networks. These traits will guide our young leaders’ decision-making as they consider the range of post-high school options.
Through learning how to maintain the Boston Explorers organization teens develop a set of skills that will serve as a sturdy foundation to be a leader in any area of life: fundraising, planning and hosting programming days, researching explorations, recruiting participants, stewarding donors, marketing and advertising, and more!
Participants (ages 15-18) can choose to apply for either or both of our LIT programs.
YEAR-LONG PROGRAM
The Year-Long Program meets monthly from October through May.
Teens who reach the upper age limit of the Boston Explorers camp program can apply and interview for the four to ten available positions in the Leaders-in-Training Year-Long Program.
LITs will attend monthly modules featuring guest speakers and interactive workshops. Teens will have the opportunity to visit workplaces and interact with professionals.
Acceptance into the Year-Long Program requires a complete application, an interview, and two references.
Teens who have finished one year in the program are given priority for attending a second and third year. Returning LITs will have a follow-up interview to assess their experience from the previous summer and to set goals for the year ahead.
There may also be opportunities for LITs who participate in the Year-Long Program to work during February and April Vacation if Boston Explorers offers programming during school vacation weeks.
SUMMER PROGRAM
During the Leaders-in-Training Summer Program, LITs work under the direct supervision of the LIT Program Director and Program Leader, and alongside Boston Explorers senior staff. Through engagement with staff, campers, families and community members, LIT’s gain valuable experience, work habits, and skills in a supportive environment.
A typical day consisists of working with campers participating in the Boston Explorers summer camp (woodworking, crafts, and exploration) with a focus on assisting campers (ages 7-14) and working collaboratively with staff.
LITs will also meet with professionals who will share their personal stories with our teens as a way of providing insight into the challenges of leading a successful life.
The 2024 LIT Summer Program runs for seven weeks, with LITs working from June 24 through August 16. Applications due April 12, 2024. Applicants must be 15 years old by July 1, 2024 and obtain a valid work permit.
Summer Program participants will be paid for their work.