Will you make a year-end gift to the AYF today and empower thousands of young people across the country?

The post Will you support kids at AYF before Dec. 31? appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

Saturday, January 10: Washington, DC
Joint event with Merrowvista
3 to 5 p.m.
Private residence – RSVP below for exact location

Saturday, January 17: Cleveland, Ohio
Joint event with Merrowvista
3 to 5 p.m.
Private residence – RSVP below for exact location

Saturday, February 1: St. Louis, Missouri 
Summer Expo 2026
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Parkway West High School

Saturday, February 1: St. Louis, Missouri 
3 to 5 p.m.
Private residence – RSVP below for exact location

Sunday, February 8: Indianapolis, Indiana
3 to 5 p.m.
Private residence – RSVP below for exact location

The post Learn more about 2026 NLC and Miniwanca summer camp this winter appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

Sunday, December 14: Boston, Massachusetts 
11:30 a.m to 1 p.m.
Private residence – RSVP below for exact location

Saturday, January 10: Washington, DC
Joint event with Miniwanca
3 to 5 p.m.
Private residence – RSVP below for exact location

Saturday, January 17: Cleveland, Ohio
Joint event with Miniwanca
3 to 5 p.m.
Private residence – RSVP below for exact location

Sunday, January 25: Brooklyn, New York
Brooklyn Camp Fair
12 to 3 p.m.
Berkley Carroll Athletic Center
Free tickets required for entry.

​Wednesday, January 28: Westchester, New York
Westchester Camp Fair
5:30 to 8 p.m.
Purchase College 
Free tickets required for entry. 

​Saturday, January 31: Cambridge, Massachusetts 
Cambridge Camp Fair
​12 to 3 p.m.
The Foundry
Free tickets required for entry. 

Sunday, February 1: Long Island, New York
Long Island Camp Fair
12 to 3 p.m.
Hofstra University
Free tickets required for entry.

Sunday, February 1: Sommerville, Massachusetts 
Time TBD
Private residence – RSVP below for exact location

The post Learn more about Merrowvista 2026 summer camp this winter appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

This year, our goal is to receive financial gifts from 200 individuals. And, if you help us reach our goal, we will unlock an additional $25,000 Giving Tuesday gift from a generous donor!

The post Help the AYF unlock $25,000 on Giving Tuesday appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

What sets the AYF programs apart from other youth development programs, in your opinion?

Intentionality and the environment set AYF programs apart. The program curriculum and the staff mentality are so meticulously intentional. It all but guarantees participants will have the chance to learn and grow. It’s quite intense at times, but I appreciate how each moment carefully incorporates spirited fun and play. It’s a necessary balance with the moments of hard-hitting conversations in the NLC curriculum that require substantial brainpower.

All AYF programs are structured around experiential education, meaning the learning happens through activities. Those activities are only enhanced by the environment in which they are set. Programs are made all the more powerful by the dunes of western Michigan and the woods of New Hampshire.

What is one way the AYF impacted you and/or your family?  

I feel like my dad ought to answer this question. A bunch of AYF friends came to my wedding a couple months ago, and they told me that my dad made a point to share with them – while choking back tears – that he saw how much the AYF has had a positive influence on my life and who I am as a person. He had not had the chance to speak to so many AYF folks, and he made sure not to miss the opportunity to shower praise on its people and programs.

Why do you support the AYF today?

Personal fulfillment. I find it incredibly fulfilling to support an organization that has such a profoundly positive impact. As a participant, I got to experience the magic, transformation, and the awesome power of the experiences that AYF facilitates. It brings me joy and satisfaction to help in providing that to others now, knowing just how wonderful and meaningful it is.

Why should others support the AYF through financial gifts or volunteering?

The primary benefit of any AYF program goes to participants involved. But make no mistake, AYF staff benefit from these programs almost as much. Not only do you get satisfaction and fulfilment from helping others grow, but you grow yourself, you play, and you have new experiences you would never come across in day-to-day life. Volunteer with the AYF. You’ll be glad you did.

The post Inspired Impact: JT Max appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

Many community organizations and schools flock the Cannan Valley in the fall and spring, but Megan Luce, Director of Community and School Programs, said winter programs offer unique outdoor options not many get to experience at Merrowvista.

“Winter is a magical time at Merrowvista! Our hills and surrounding mountains are blanketed in a sheet of snow, and we have many cozy indoor spaces to warm up,” she said. “A winter program here might include playing snowshoe games on the A-field, hiking to the frozen waterfall, roasting marshmallows on a fire outdoors, or doing our indoor high challenge course!”

Merrowvista currently has openings for winter programs from mid-February to mid-April 2026. Contact Megan at mluce@ayf.com for more information, and check out her answers to some of the most common winter program questions.

How much time do participants spend outdoors during winter programs?

As much as they’d like! We work with you to create your ideal schedule. We offer a variety of outdoor options, and, many of our indoor activities are available, too, such as team building challenges, leadership activities, games, crafts, and our high ropes course.

Groups can also take breaks inside to warm up around a fire and drink hot cocoa. We recommend a mix of indoor and outdoor activities to experience the best that Merrowvista has to offer in the winter.

What winter-exclusive activities are available?

There are so many great options: snowshoeing, winter shelter building, sledding, cross-country skiing, and winter outdoor survival. And we’ll always encourage an impromptu snowball fight or snowman building session!

What are accommodations like during winter programs?

Participants stay in our cozy Danforth Lodge, which is fully winterized and has its own sleeping accommodations, bathrooms, and common areas. Danforth can accommodate 58 people in 14 bunk rooms. There are shared bathrooms on each floor, and a few rooms have private bathrooms.

Thanks to a full commercial kitchen and dining space, Merrowvista staff can prepare meals right in Danforth, and there is ample space for group programming. Everything feels cozy and intimate since the whole group is staying in the same building.

Do participants need special winter gear?

Merrowvista provides all specialized winter gear like snowshoes and cross-country skis. Participants need to bring winter boots, warm layers, hats, and gloves. We provide all groups with a packing list specific to the season.

To book your winter CSP experience, email Megan Luce at mluce@ayf.com.

The post Merrowvista winter programs offer snowy outdoor adventures appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

We’re thrilled to welcome two outstanding individuals to the Miniwanca community.

Sandra George – Girls Camp Director
Sandra brings more than two decades of wide-ranging experience directing teams in complex community organizations, most recently shaping strategy as the AYF Vice President of Advancement.

A lifelong Miniwanca alum, she has been a camper, a leader, a seasonal staff member, and is a current camper parent. Colleagues know her as versatile and thoughtful with a remarkable gift for bringing people together and a joyful commitment to the traditions that make this community shine.

In this role, Sandra will continue her work as Vice President and member of the AYF Leadership Team, ensuring the Girls Camp community has a strong and experienced voice guiding its future

Landon Schumacker – Four Trails Program Manager
Landon’s path to this role winds through more than a decade of Miniwanca involvement and outdoor leadership. He has served as a Trip Leader, Program Coordinator, and Community and School Program Facilitator. He was also a camper and NLC participant.

Beyond AYF, he has led backcountry expeditions from the Mississippi River to the Appalachian Trail, instructed outdoor courses in Joshua Tree National Park, and most recently, taught music in Michigan schools.

Known as a skilled educator and mentor, Landon is eager to shape the next chapter of Four Trails and help campers grow in confidence, resilience, and a love for the outdoors.

Sandra and Landon join a dedicated year-round team that works throughout the year to ensure Miniwanca remains a place of belonging, growth, and discovery. With this group assembled, preparations for summer 2026 are well underway as we look forward to another memorable season.

The post Meet the new Miniwanca Girls Camp Director, Four Trails Manager appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

St. Louis is at the heart of the AYF’s origins, as it was the home of founder William H. Danforth, who founded Ralston Purina. Nestlé Purina PetCare continues to support the AYF and sponsored the two area events.

A stormy Saturday morning couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm at the BBQ Birthday Party, which moved indoors thanks to the support of local partner school St. Joseph’s Academy. More than 100 people from ages 8 to 80 joined the fun, swapping AYF stories over delicious barbecue and birthday cake.

Full-time staff from Miniwanca and Merrowvista traveled to St. Louis to join the festivities, too. Miniwanca Boys Camp Director Tiwi Freeman, Merrowvista Camp Director Madelyn Cook, and Merrowvista Community and School Programs Director Megan Luce led ice breakers and games in the school gym.

“The barbecue was a wonderful way to connect with so many of our Founder Friends who live in the St. Louis area, as well as those who traveled for our evening event,” said AYF President and CEO Liz Marshall.

That night, 150 people gathered at The Trolley Room in Forest Park for the Checkerboard Gala, a night of celebration, fundraising, and honoring AYF legends. Attendees were encouraged to dress in “” and they did not disappoint. The room was a sea of squares, from a jaunty cravat or blazer to a full checkerboard suit.

Former Missouri Congressman Richard Gephardt, who served as honorary Centennial Campaign co-chair, shared his AYF story with guests.

In his remarks, he said he had never left his hometown of St. Louis until he received a scholarship to attend Older Boys Conference at Miniwanca. There, his eyes were opened to just how big and diverse the country was – and how much we all had in common. The experience, he said, changed the life of “little Dicky Gephardt” and set him on a career path dedicated to serving others that ultimately led to 28 years in the U.S. House of Representatives.

That same transformative experience still impacts participants today. Current camper Ruby Dunn shared how her three summers at Miniwanca have helped her become “a better human.”

“Miniwanca has taught me to bring values into my everyday life like teamwork, the importance of friendship, and believing in the best version of myself,” she said. “Nothing could make a kid happier than giving them an opportunity to explore their best self through the chance to go to camp.”

It was also a night for recognizing a woman who dedicated much of her life to the AYF. Marshall presented the Daring Visionary Award to former president Anna Kay Vorsteg for her 35 years of service to the organization.

“Anna Kay brings humor and warmth into every room she enters,” Marshall said that night as her Vorsteg’s wife, Vicki Boyd, and her children, Sovann and Tevy Vorsteg-Boyd, looked on. “She makes people feel seen. She makes hard work feel joyful. She makes the vision of ‘inspired people unleashing their best in the world’ something you feel immediately in her presence.”

In addition to the award, the AYF community will honor Vorsteg’s legacy with the Anna Kay Vorsteg Scholarship Fund, which will provide financial assistance for campers at both sites.

Marshall thanked attendees for the generous support throughout the year and encouraged them to keep the spark burning into the next century.

“At our camps, young people from all walks of life come together, and something powerful happens: they learn to listen, to lead, and to bridge divides. Most importantly, they discover their agency, their ability to create a world grounded in caring, inclusion, belonging, and respect for all. That kind of leadership has never been more needed than it is today,” she said. “Not every young person is believed in, trusted, or surrounded by mentors who see their spark. That is why our mission matters. When we invest in youth, we shape the next century.”

The program concluded with a beloved AYF tradition as almost everyone leapt up to encircle the room, link arms, and sing “Founder Hearts.” A year’s worth of centennial joy was evident as Founder Friends from across the country united in a moment that bridged the decades.

“The Checkerboard Gala was the perfect way to wrap a spectacular year and launch us into the next century,” Marshall said. “I am so grateful for the support of this community and look forward to what’s next for our organization.”

The post Founder Hearts unite in St. Louis at centennial gala, barbecue appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

For three days, these Founder Friends reconnected on the Farmhouse porch, along the cool waters of Dan Hole Pond, and atop the grassy expanse of the A-field, sharing their favorite memories of Merrowvista days gone by.

Vice President of Communications and Impact Kris Light said it was inspiring to see so many people return to camp. “It’s been several decades since some people were at Merrowvista,” he said. “It’s so special to have so many generations with such strong connections to camp rekindling their spark over the weekend.”

The weekend was filled with exploration, fun, and reminiscing, starting with an Italian dinner al fresco at Dan Hole Pond Friday night. Saturday was filled with interest groups like arts and crafts, archery, sailing and boating, swimming, hikes to The Ledge, and more. AYF Archivist Jan Strube brought her extensive AYF knowledge to The Bahn, setting up an in-depth display of 100 years in the Ossipee Mountains.

The day ended with a spirited Four Fold Relay, featuring classic elements like tent building, thawing and donning a frozen t-shirt, and a mad scramble to find a flag buried in the volleyball sand. After a delicious surf and turf meal, everyone trekked to the Fire Circle for singing and reflection from participants through the decades.

AYF President and CEO Liz Marshall shared her own Merrowvista experience and said she was moved by the obvious pride and love of the New Hampshire camp.

“I am standing in a circle of people of all ages who said yes to coming home to Merrowvista,” said Marshall. “And you have come home to a place where you will always belong. You are the people who have created this home: for yourselves, for the campers, for those who came before us, and for those are still going to come.”

Former President Anna Kay Vorsteg joined Sunday morning for moments of reverence and reflection during Something Sacred. After, Marshall, Light, Board Chair DD Danforth Burlin, and the Merrowvista team shared the vision for the next 100 years of the American Youth Foundation.

“As we celebrate our organization’s storied past, we’re so excited for what’s to come,” Marshall said. “We’re proud to carry the Founders’ legacy forward into the next 100 years of empowering youth of all ages.”

The post Merrowvista Homecoming welcomes hundreds back to camp appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

“It’s inspiring to see so many adults dedicated to personal growth through all ages and stages of life,” Young said. “We had so much fun in community with one another, and I can’t wait to welcome everyone back in 2026.”

Check out some of our favorite Spark moments below!

The post Spark 2025 enkindles joy at Miniwanca appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

What sets the AYF programs apart from other youth development programs?

“Most summer camps provide physical activity, social opportunities, and a taste of independence. The AYF goes much further, putting its values at the center of its mission.

“Merrowvista camps challenge our kids to get out of their comfort zone, creating opportunities for growth and empowerment. The staff actively cultivates an atmosphere of positivity and respect, fostering a safe space for kids to be their authentic selves. Wilderness trips require cooperation and teamwork, and the rustic camp lifestyle – both on and off trail – helps to remove social barriers that exist in the outside world.

“Anyone who’s interacted with the AYF has experienced these values in action. What has impressed us most as parents is the AYF’s ability to evolve with the changing times without losing its cultural foundations.

“Examples we’ve lived through include reframing the “R” fold, reducing the use of borrowed First Nation traditions, and adapting to the rise of smartphones and social media. Other organizations have struggled to make this kind of pivot. Having spent plenty of time at Merrowvista recently, we have seen firsthand that the AYF values and culture are as strong as ever.”

What is one way the AYF impacted you and your family? 

“The AYF, and Merrowvista specifically, has provided a uniquely safe and supportive environment for me as a teenager, for my younger siblings, and now for my children. It has been a home away from home, a community where I know that my children will not just be taken care of but valued, respected and seen.

“Each year our kids come home from camp having seemingly aged a year in only a few weeks’ time.  They are more confident, empowered, resourceful, and have a renewed positivity towards others and the world.”

Why do you support the AYF today?

“With all the challenges and growing pains the world is experiencing today, it seems that the values we live by at Merrowvista are becoming more rare and more needed. The AYF has a 100-year track record of nurturing young people, who in turn have the power to spread positive change through their communities. The Founders recognized this opportunity early on: ‘One enkindled spirit can set hundreds afire.’”

The post Inspired Impact: Trevor Uhl appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

The Evolution of Wayfinder

Merrowvista Executive Director Jason Knowles said the AYF decided to add more in-camp program options for high school-aged campers after the success of Wayfinder.

“Wayfinder provided five great summers of leadership and growth for our older campers and showed the value of expanding our onsite program offerings,” said Knowles. “These new programs – Discoverer, Pathfinder, and Torchbearer – will provide intentional leadership development opportunities.”

Camp Director Madelyn Cook said Merrowvista also recognized that not all campers want to enroll in offsite adventure programs, and these new programs increase camper choice. “We’ve expanded our options to meet the needs of our community, enabling campers of all ages to come to Merrowvista, find their people, learn hard and soft skills, and strengthen their sense of identity,” she said.

What is Discoverer?

Discoverer is for rising seventh and eighth graders. These campers will participate in interest groups and in an overnight offsite camping experience. Discoverer will lay the foundation for the leadership curriculum that lies ahead as Pathfinders and Torchbearers.

What is Pathfinder?

As Pathfinders, ninth and tenth graders will have a greater sense of choice in activities beyond traditional interest groups. Pathfinders will take on new responsibilities through community service projects and have leadership opportunities like co-leading assemblies.

“This curriculum is designed to challenge campers and help them achieve personal goals,” Cook said. “Pathfinder reminds campers they can do hard things.”

What is Torchbearer?

Torchbearer is the final step on the in-camp progression for campers entering grades 11 and 12. Torchbearers will continue to develop through leadership opportunities, group facilitation training, and skills development courses. They will have the chance to achieve certifications such as first aid, lifeguarding through the American Red Cross, and Level 1 Instructor training through US Archery.

Merrowvista is exploring options to honor Torchbearers’ achievements with wearable reminders, as is the tradition when campers complete milestone programs like Odyssey and Voyageur.

Discoverer, Pathfinder, and Torchbearer offer Merrowvista campers another way to discover their best and prepare them to be confident, competent young adults in the world.

“These new programs reflect our commitment to supporting campers as they achieve new heights in a caring and supportive community,” said Knowles. “It is an opportunity to learn real life skills as they take their first steps into adulthood after high school.”

The post Older Merrowvista campers have new in-camp options appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

The cycling program was paused after the pandemic, giving AYF leaders the opportunity to reflect, research, and imagine what a renewed biking experience could look like for today’s youth.

In summer 2026, cycling will return to AYF with a fresh vision. AYF President Liz Marshall said the cycling landscape has changed in recent years, and rebuilding the program has allowed the AYF to approach it in new way, balancing tradition with innovation.

“The biking program still holds transformative promise, but we needed to rebuild it to meet safety standards and offer a powerful invitation for youth to discover their best,” Marshall said. “The new cycling program will provide an opportunity for personal growth grounded in our AYF core values and program outcomes.”

Daring New Adventures

Next summer, the AYF will launch a pilot season with cycling options at both sites. The AYF carefully considered the program offerings at Miniwanca and Merrowvista and developed pilot programs that best suited each site’s unique camper population.

“We will assess these pilot programs with the goal of adding more bike options at both sites in future summers,” said Marshall.

At Miniwanca, 2026 Explorers will enjoy a trip that includes both cycling and backpacking. At Merrowvista, the Trailblazer and Explorer programs will have biking components, and a new version of Voyageur will include sea kayaking, backpacking, and a cycling experience.

The new iteration of cycling prioritizes the central aspects of the AYF camp experience: building community and personal growth and development, not miles traveled.

A Culture of Safety

Since 2019, the AYF has listened, reflected, and studied the data and stories from the past. Those insights helped shape the new cycling offerings.

As with all Four Trails programs, a culture of safety will be the foundation. This means extra resources and staff, thorough training for trip leaders, pre-trip evaluations for campers, updated gear and new route standards.

The AYF has partnered with cycling and outdoor adventure experts to design trips with routes that avoid busy roads and take advantage of the expanding network of rail trails, dirt roads, and scenic rural routes.

The AYF philosophy of challenge by choice means campers will have options. Those who opt-into programs with cycling will be thoroughly prepared for the challenges that lie ahead and closely supervised on their trips. Campers who prefer not to bike will be able to challenge themselves in other ways through expanded in-camp programs and other Four Trails experiences.

Marshall said these new programs are about much more than just bringing bikes back to camp.

“We’re not reviving a trip,” she said. “We’re building a journey that empowers young people to move through the world with intention, fueled by their own energy. The return of cycling is about moving forward with purpose, care, and confidence.”

The post Shifting Gears: AYF relaunches summer cycling programs appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

The three-day event kicked off a slew of centennial celebrations taking place over the next three months, giving Founder Friends across the generations a chance to commemorate the American Youth Foundation’s 100th year.

Vice President of Advancement Sandra George was thrilled to see so many people from across the country – and around the world – return to celebrate a place that had such an impact on their lives.

“We had people in their 80s connecting with kids who just participated in summer camp this year,” George said. “It was magical to see so many generations bonding over shared experiences in this timeless place.”

Almost every former and current Miniwanca program was represented: Older and Younger Girls Camp, Older and Younger Boys Camp, National Leadership Conference, International Leadership Conference, Young Adult Conference, Four Trails, adult programs like Summer Seminars for Women, and even Cedar Lake, a now-closed camp the AYF once operated in California.

“For some people, this was their first time returning to Miniwanca in 50 years,” George said. “While the trees may be taller and the buildings a bit different, the Miniwanca magic remains the same.”

The weekend was filled with sunshine and fun as attendees rediscovered all Miniwanca had to offer. Some participants enjoyed camp activities like high ropes, arts and crafts, and beach time on Lake Michigan. Others took a deep dive into Miniwanca’s past, exploring the archives with AYF Archivists Jan Strube and Karen Reimer.

And of course, there was music. From the lilting Kodaya rounds popular since camp’s early days to the foot-stomping joy of Boys Camp favorite “The Buzzard Song,” everyone was thoroughly entertained during Saturday night’s Variety Show.

Sunday morning was filled with moments of reflection and reverence during Something Sacred, and President and CEO Liz Marshall shared the vision for the next 100 years of the American Youth Foundation.

The weekend concluded with a ceremonial groundbreaking of the new Assembly building, a full circle moment as the AYF begins its second century with a new facility that honors the organization’s history and meets the needs of tomorrow’s youth.

“As we celebrate our organization’s storied past, we’re so excited for what’s to come,” Marshall said. “One hundred years ago, the Founders sat on these dunes and imagined what the AYF could be. We’re proud to carry that legacy forward into the next 100 years of empowering youth of all ages.”

The post Hundreds celebrate centennial at Miniwanca Homecoming appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

What sets the AYF apart from other youth development programs?
“Now about a decade into my career, I hear discussion of balance: work-life balance, balance in our relationships, our relationship to working out, to our ability to be alone with ourselves. As I see adults struggling to seek this balance, I realize how lucky I was to have this guide to balanced living imprinted on me from such a young age. Balancing our mental, physical, social, and spiritual lives – the four-fold way of life, as we refer to it in the AYF – is an incredibly powerful way of being.

“There is a magic to the schedule of the days at the AYF. There is time for moving your body, for laughing with friends, for sitting and watching the sunset. You are challenged to find a space to be with yourself while surrounded by nature.

“By overcoming challenges in each of the four folds, you begin to understand yourself on the deepest level. The AYF is run by incredibly intelligent, intentional, and loving individuals, and it wasn’t until I was on staff that I understood how every moment is curated to allow young people to have the time and space to find their best selves.”

How have AYF programs affected you?
“The AYF taught me how to take on responsibility with maturity and how to handle challenges with steadiness. As an Odyssey leader, I remember feeling that every mile farther from Miniwanca was a mile I was responsible for getting my group back home safely. I felt the pressure but also felt my capability. There were true challenges: countless flats tires, downpours that set us behind schedule, participants needing encouragement to make it up that mountain. I found that biking 60 to 70 miles a day was the easiest part of the job, and I loved every minute of it.”

Why do I support the AYF?
“I support the AYF – and encourage others with the ability to do so to do the same – as I believe deeply that everyone, regardless of socio-economic status, deserves to know the joy and freedom of a summer at camp. I returned home each summer happier, stronger, and usually singing the same songs over and over again until my parents insisted I stop.”

The post Inspired Impact: Bridget Gilmore appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

The Dining Hall gets a full transformation: streamers, flickering (fake) candles, and some chill music set the mood. Tables are arranged by Quads — Breakers, Creeks, Sands, and Beaches — and our fifth-year campers sit together at head tables, joined by a staff member of their choice. That staff member writes the camper a letter and brings a bundle of their favorite snacks, a quiet, personal gesture that always means a lot.

Dinner is built around the campers’ favorite foods, turned into something fun and special by our kitchen team. It’s always a hit.

Then there’s the Wheel of Destiny, a Miniwanca classic. Campers spin for surprises like silly staff performances, Quad points, or the rare honor of becoming Boys Camp Director… for 10 whole seconds. It’s goofy, it’s joyful, and it’s full of the kind of spirit that makes Boys Camp a unique place.

More than anything, the Fifth-Year Banquet is a reminder of how important it is to celebrate each other. These campers have shaped this community in real ways. Their presence, their growth, and their leadership matter, and this night is all about lifting that up and saying, simply, “We’re glad you’re here.”

The post The Fifth-Year Banquet at Miniwanca Boys Camp appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

We use this idea every day on our high-ropes course, where the challenge is real and the choice is always theirs. Whether it’s reaching the top of the climbing wall, stepping out onto a swinging beam, or choosing to cheer on a friend from the ground, every camper is invited to participate in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to them.

We believe growth happens when we choose to challenge ourselves — not when we’re pushed or pressured — and our ropes courses are designed to offer that opportunity in a supportive and empowering environment.

Our high-ropes programming includes both an indoor and outdoor course, and each one brings its own unique adventure. Indoors, we feature a climbing wall, Burma bridge, Tarzan vines, and a high beam, all ideal for all-weather climbing and year-round use.

Outside, our course expands into the treetops with elements like the X-Wing, floating islands, traverse lines, and more that have campers laughing, leaping, and leaning into trust.

Safety is a top priority, and our staff are highly trained in both high-ropes technical skills and experiential education. Before any camper leaves the ground, they learn to put on their harness and helmet properly and are triple-checked by our facilitators. Every climb begins with a pre-climb ritual: helmet, harness, and human are checked, followed by a clear communication cycle: “On belay?” “Belay is on.” “Climbing?” “Climb on.” It’s both safety protocol and a ritual of intention, signaling the camper’s choice to take on the challenge ahead.

And while climbing may look like a solo experience, it’s one of the most collaborative activities at camp. Every camper is a part of the belay team and plays a vital role. Our backup belay keeps the climber double safe. The rope coiler ensures our ropes are managed well and tangle-free. The goal setter works with the climber to define their personal goal and announces to the team when it’s been reached so we can all celebrate together.

Campers learn that success isn’t just about making it to the top. It’s about setting an intention, showing up for your team, and honoring the effort it takes to grow. That’s the kind of adventure that sticks with you long after the harness comes off.

The post Miniwanca campers push limits, choose growth on high ropes appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

The Odyssey program’s time at Merrowvista is an opportunity for campers to grow, connect, and celebrate their achievements with another part of the AYF community.

Preparation is key to a successful Odyssey journey. Campers spend time organizing and preparing their gear, ensuring they have everything they need for the challenges ahead. This includes packing essentials like tents, cooking equipment, and personal items into their packs.

To build confidence and readiness, they embark on a practice hike to Merrowvista’s iconic Ledge. This hike not only helps them test their gear but also gives them a taste of the physical demands of New England hiking.

Odyssey campers participate in games with the Merrowvista community, helping them build relationships with their peers. They will lead a flag raising and enjoy meals with the Merrowvista community. They also meet with their Merrowvista counterparts, who are also completing their Odyssey journeys through the 100 Mile Wilderness and the top of Mt. Katahdin.

After their transformative journeys, Miniwanca campers return to Merrowvista for a special walk-in celebration. Walking up Camp Hill, they are greeted with cheers and applause, marking the completion of their adventure. The celebration continues as they run to Dan Hole Pond and rinse off after 18 days of no showers. Rejoining the Merrowvista community for a day allows campers to share their experiences and reflect on their journey before heading back to Miniwanca, where they’re welcomed home with fanfare and cheer during Nostos.

The post Miniwanca Odyssey campers make Merrowvista connections appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

It starts long before the music and cheering. In the days leading up to Carn-Avail, Avail campers work behind the scenes to design every game, build props, plan the schedule, and transform a corner of Boys Camp into a full-blown carnival. This summer’s event featured a mix of wild creativity and classic camp charm: a water relay course that left campers and staff soaked and laughing, ropes strung between trees to create a “spider web” maze, a homemade skee-ball setup, trivia competitions, and so much more.

Each station was entirely camper-run. Avail participants planned their games with intention, thinking about what would be inclusive, challenging, and most of all, fun for the rest of camp. Then they had to lead: explaining rules clearly, managing lines, adjusting when things didn’t go as expected, and making sure every camper felt welcome and included.

Carn-Avail is fun, but at its core, it’s a leadership lab in disguise. Avail campers model maturity, navigate group dynamics, and show the kind of presence that makes younger campers feel seen and supported. It’s a tough job, and this summer, they rose to the challenge with energy, humor, and real care for their community.

What’s most impressive is that, by the time the carnival begins, it feels effortless, but behind the scenes, it’s been hours of brainstorming, building, troubleshooting, and teamwork. That quiet effort, that willingness to do the work for the sake of others’ joy, is what leadership at Miniwanca is all about.

In a camp full of meaningful moments, Carn-Avail stands out as something special because it reminds us what happens when young people are trusted to lead and supported as they bring their ideas to life.

The post Miniwanca Avail campers host Carn-Avail appeared first on American Youth Foundation.

In our LARP (Live Action Roleplay) group, campers do more than just swing foam swords around. They start by learning the fundamentals of safe and effective swordplay: footwork, blocking, striking zones, and how to read an opponent’s movement. These basics build not just skill, but also discipline, focus, and respect for the game and each other.

Then, campers step into character: heroes, tricksters, guardians, and adventurers. With shields raised and alliances formed, they head into mock battles where every decision counts. It’s equal parts strategy, theater, and physical play — and it’s a blast.

Meanwhile, in Dungeons & Dragons, the focus shifts from action to imagination. Over four days, campers dive into a cocreated world where choices shape the story. They roleplay as original characters, make bold moves, and sometimes face tough losses. When a character doesn’t make it, players have to adapt, roll up someone new, and re-enter the world ready for whatever’s next.

A standout moment this summer came when Boys Camp Director Tiwi stepped in as a surprise villain. His over-the-top performance pushed one group to the brink, and when a player’s character was taken out, the rest of the party pulled together, fought through the chaos, and managed to save their teammate. It wasn’t just a dramatic moment; it was a powerful example of problem-solving, collaboration, and heart.

Both programs offer more than just fun. They help campers build confidence, creativity, and communication skills. Whether it’s through a dramatic duel or a dice-fueled debate, our campers are growing into thoughtful, expressive leaders, one story at a time.

The post Worlds of Adventure: LARP and Dungeons & Dragons at Miniwanca appeared first on American Youth Foundation.