• To provide a work training program specializing in leadership, job experience, program development, and supervision in a recreational setting.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

• Due to the increasing number of participants in the Counselors-In-Training Program, applicants will be chosen on a first-come, first-serve basis AND summer availability. If the applicant’s availability does not fit the program needs, their application will be denied.
• All applicants must be 14 through 16 years old. Each applicant must be at least 14 years of age by program start date. Applications must be completed and returned to the Recreation and Community Services Office at 5700 Orange Avenue, by 5:00 PM., Thursday, March 26th.
• Applicants must be a Cypress resident.
• Applicants must be available for an interview Tuesday, April 7^th or Wednesday, April 8^th. Applicants must be present at the time of application submission. Applications submitted by parents or guardians without the applicant present will not be accepted. Applicants must sign up for their interview date and time when submitting their application.
• Summer programs of availability include Challenger Basketball, Sports Camps, Camp Cypress, Cypress Senior Center, Summer Parks and Pee Wee Sports. (See program descriptions on next page.) Summer Programs need the assistance of CIT’s for a specific duration and time during the summer. Please make sure to read and understand the program specifics (including dates and times) before requesting to volunteer for that program.

CIT BENEFITS

• Gain practical work experience in leadership and organizational skills in the field of recreation
• Receive a letter of recommendation upon successful completion of the CIT program
• Obtain community service hours for school or other civic organizations
• Professional job training

CIT RESPONSIBILITIES

• Arrive on time for your scheduled hours
• Work with recreation staff daily for specific assignments and activities
• Attend all regularly scheduled CIT meeting/trainings
• Dress in the proper uniform in accordance with Cypress Recreation and Community Services’ dress code

IN-SERVICE TRAINING/ORIENTATION

• All CIT’s accepted into the program (after being interviewed) are required to attend a meeting on Thursday, May 7^th. From 6:00 – 7:00PM at the Cypress Community Center. A mandatory orientation for both the CIT and Parent (legal guardian) will follow from 7:00 – 8:00PM.

Take a look at all of the hard work our Counselors-In-Training accomplished in Summer 2025. Thank you, CITs!