LEADERS-IN-TRAINING

The mission of the Boston Explorer Leader-in-Training program is to provide experiences for Boston youth that will help prepare them for the transition from teen to young adult.

Experiences in the program are designed to help teens develop awareness and increased proficiency in the following areas:

  • Job preparedness

  • Personal responsibility

  • Skills training

  • Working with others

  • Self-advocacy

  • Service to others

Our Leaders-in-Training programs nurture the next generations of leaders. Leaders-in-Training (LITs) learn and strengthen skills and habits in regard 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!

Our year-long workshop series is geared towards participants ages 14-19. Our summer LIT Program is for participants ages 14-17. Youth who are 18 years of age and over and looking for summer employment can apply for one of our counselor positions.

YEAR-LONG PROGRAM

During October through May, Boston Explorers will offer a series of workshops geared towards the development of professional and leadership skills. These workshops are open to youth in the community ages 14-24 years of age.

Workshops topics will include:

  • Resume Writing

  • Interpersonal Communication

  • Interviewing

  • Financial Literacy

  • Networking

  • Teamship

  • Career Exploration/Mapping

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 consists of working with campers participating in the Boston Explorers summer camp (recreation, crafts, and exploration) with a focus on assisting campers (ages 7-13) 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 2025 LIT Summer Program runs for eight weeks, with LITs working from June 23 through August 15. Applications due April 11, 2025. Applicants must be 14 years old by July 7, 2025 and obtain a valid work permit.

The first two weeks of work will be orientation. The regular summer program will begin on July 7, 2025.

Summer Program participants will be paid for their work.