Leadership Development Program
A 3-year program:
developing strong leaders at camp, for church, and in the world
What is it?
An intentionally designed program engaging teen campers in a progressive program developing leadership skills and faith development over several years to prepare them for application to the summer staff team or other church/life opportunities
Program Progression:
- AIT (Assistant in Training) - Building a cohort: Ages 14 to 15. Team-building; Learn leadership styles, exercise servant leadership, explore spiritual leadership qualities; Individual mentorship; Assist leading energizers, arts & crafts, field games, and more; Free time for camp activities when not serving; Off-site day trip. Commitment: 2 weeks in the summer: June 21 to July 3, 2026. Apply Now to receive your registration link.
- LIT (Leader in Training) - Engaging leadership skills: Ages 15 to 16. Build on leadership lessons from AIT; Assist with program delivery, assist cabin staff; Learn problem solving skills and conflict resolution; Learn how to work in program areas; Provide support for all evening activities. Commitment: 2 weeks in the summer: June 21 to July 3, 2026, plus 3 weekends during the year. Apply Now to receive your registration link.
- CIT (Counselor in Training) - Staff Training and Practical Application: Ages 16 and 17: Understand staff responsibilities, expectations, and conduct; Gain certifications as lifeguards, archery instructors, belayers; Shadow cabin leader, move into a cabin and provide full-time support the final week; Certificate of graduation at Closing Ceremony. Commitment: 3 weeks in the summer: June 14 to July 3, 2026, plus 3 weekends during the year.
- Jr. Counselor: Transition to paid staff: Age 17. Upon completion of LDP, participants become staff members; Paired with an 18+ staff member in cabins; Same expectations and responsibilities as all staff members; Weekly debriefings, additional training as needed. Commitment: Same as all summer staff members. Apply online.
The Application Process
Why is there an application for a camp program?
- Applying is a good experience for campers, a skill that will be used the rest of their lives.
- Campers earn the right to be a part of the program.
- Applicants are vetted through church and school references.
What is in the application?
- An essay for earlier levels of the program
- A reference section to include educational and camp references
- An interview for upper levels of the program
LDP at Summer Camp
The Leadership Development Program (LDP) is the heart of Montgomery’s pathway for teens who want to grow as leaders in their churches, schools, and communities. Through this multi-year experience, campers build leadership skills, deepen their faith, and practice servant leadership in real camp settings alongside trained staff and mentors.
Participants learn about different leadership styles, work as a team, and gain hands-on experience helping lead activities, supporting younger campers, and contributing to the daily life of camp. Through Bible study, worship, mentorship, and reflection, LDP campers explore what it means to lead with humility, courage, and a servant’s heart.
This program goes beyond the camp property to help young leaders experience ministry in the real world. During their time in LDP, participants will:
- Travel offsite to serve alongside local community outreach ministries, practicing servant leadership and learning how the church serves beyond its walls.
- Visit one of Montgomery’s ministry partner churches for Sunday worship, connecting camp faith with the life of the broader church.
- Take part in a community-building excursion, such as a trip to one of Florida’s springs, designed to strengthen relationships within the leadership cohort.
Camper safety is a top priority for all offsite experiences. Transportation is provided by trained camp staff, and drivers are approved through a motor vehicle record review as part of the camp’s screening process. All transportation follows established camp safety procedures and vehicle safety rules.
Parents and guardians receive written information about transportation arrangements, including safety expectations for travel, and how the camp communicates schedule changes or emergencies that could affect transportation. Montgomery Center maintains written transportation and safety policies that are followed for all offsite activities.
Throughout the program, campers build strong friendships with peers while learning practical leadership skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. As they progress through the program, participants take on greater responsibility and preparation for future roles as camp staff or leaders in their home congregations.
For teens ready to step up, serve others, and grow as leaders, the Leadership Development Program offers an unforgettable summer of faith, friendship, and purpose.
More than just summer!
- Leadership retreats held year-round
- Volunteer and community service opportunities during the school year for events and in the community.
- Team-building and trainings offered throughout the year
- A chance to develop relationships and work with youth from around the presbytery.
Why Apply?
- Graduate with important life skills
- Build your resume
- Obtain all required community service hours for graduation.
- Develop a stronger understanding of culture and camp operations
- Be fully trained and ready to apply as a camp counselor at age 17!
