Wildwood Leaders-in-Training Program

Participants in Wildwood’s Leaders-In-Training (LIT) Program develop leadership skills within an environmental context. Our LIT program goes above and beyond the “Counselor-In-Training” programs offered at most summer camps, giving teens practical experience that enables them to be leaders in both their communities and the environmental arena.

Designed for mature teens entering grades 10 to 12, this unique program combines a fun summer camp experience with leadership development and special activities that teach key concepts including the three elements of Mass Audubon’s mission: conservation, education, and advocacy. During the first year of the LIT program, participants gain important environmental and camp leadership skills. A second year, open by application only, allows teens to further develop those skills through advanced challenges and experiences, providing them with the tools to make positive changes for the future.

At the beginning of each session, participants set goals for their experience together and then work with the guidance and support of their LIT Director to accomplish the challenges and tasks that will help them achieve those goals. During the session, LIT participants have the opportunity to take on leadership roles within the Wildwood program, which may include facilitating a short environmental education activity and helping senior counselors care for younger campers. The program culminates with an environmental service project at Wildwood or in the surrounding community. Past projects have included setting up and taking part in ecological monitoring, trail maintenance, and the design and sale of reusable canvas shopping bags.

While many LIT participants have previous experience as Wildwood campers, we welcome teens into the Leaders-in-Training program as their first experience in the Wildwood community. LIT participants live together in platform tents or rustic cabins. The program includes visits to other Mass Audubon sites, exploring new habitats, and meeting local conservation and community leaders. With the guidance of the LIT Director and senior Wildwood staff, they also plan and go on an exciting overnight camping adventure.

Learn More!

Current Schedule
View a current Wildwood Leaders-in-Training Program schedule.

Download a registration form and brochure, request additional information, or contact the Wildwood office at wildwood@massaudubon.org, or call us at 781-259-2183 / 866-MAS-CAMP (toll-free).

Application Process
To register for a Wildwood program, please return a completed registration form accompanied by a minimum of 25% of the tuition, or call 866-MAS-CAMP to register over the phone with a credit card. The first $50 of each camper's tuition is non-refundable. Upon receipt of a completed registration form, Wildwood will mail a registration confirmation, and enrollment forms, including a camper medical form, will follow. Please make sure that all forms are returned on time—acceptance is pending on the approval of a completed medical form.

Financial Aid
Through the generosity of Wildwood friends and alumni, we are able to offer financial assistance to qualified families. Contact the Wildwood office for more information and an application. Camp scholarship fund donations are always welcome.

Admissions Policy
Wildwood admits children of any race, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities available to campers. Wildwood does not discriminate in the administration of its admissions policies or financial aid.