“Jump right in!”
"SIT" stands for Staff-In-Training, a program geared toward 15-17 year-olds who would like to volunteer two weeks of their summer at Camp Hebron. SITs gain practical camp experience serving in the kitchen and various program activities. We asked Grace Reiss what she thought about her time as an SIT last summer.
How long did you camp here before becoming an SIT?
I started coming as a Family Camper here when I was 7 years old.
What prompted you to want to be an SIT?
My sister Sam was the SIT director, and told me about the SIT program, and my other sister Hope was the music leader. I thought it would be cool to be on summer staff with my sisters. I also love the atmosphere at Camp.
What did you enjoy about being on staff as opposed to a camper?
The whole staff was like a huge family. I really enjoyed getting to know other people. Each week I had the chance to get to know different people because each week I was assigned to work with a different camp program. I also enjoyed getting to know the other SITs.
What are some of your favorite moments from this past summer?
I enjoyed helping with Day Camp. I got to help for over two weeks with Day Camp. It was my favorite camp to help with. I loved seeing all the kids from Day Camp playing together. Day Camp was different than what I was used to with Family Camps. With Family Camps, it was more of the parents in charge of the children, but at day camp the kids came to you and they were your responsibility. I also really enjoyed working with Gary (2015 Day Camp Director), he was the best! It was fun seeing him interact with the kids.
What is one of the biggest challenges you faced as an SIT this past summer?
At times I struggled to have motivation to want to help in the kitchen. But I grew to like it as the summer went on. I would help bus tables, prep food and wash dishes. It was fine, I just really wanted to be with the Day Campers.
Did you get homesick?
No, it helped having family there. It almost felt like home for me.
How has working on staff helped you grow?
I became more responsible with my time. Our camps run on a tight schedule and I had to be on time. This was a challenge for me because in the past I haven’t always been a timely person. It was also great being around other Christians, it definitely helped me grow in my faith. I felt so much more mature because I was put in a leadership role with the campers. Being one of the younger ones in my family, I don’t have a leadership role. Leading Bible studies and devotions helped me see that I can be a role model.
What would you say to someone that is considering the SIT program this summer?
Jump right in! I was nervous at first, but as soon as I got to Camp Hebron, there was this peace that came over me. My experience was eye-opening and amazing. If you’re considering, definitely do it!
Thank you Grace for volunteering at camp and sharing your experience!
Want to learn more about our SIT program? Visit the link below.