Miniwanca and the four-fold way of living were fundamental to Albie Bell and Katie Maus as teenagers attending and working at camp in the \u201980s and \u201990s. They passed these values on to their sons, Nate and Sam, who continue the family tradition of working at and attending summer camp this year. Nate joins the seasonal staff as an LIT and lifeguard, while Sam hikes Pictured Rocks National Park as part of Explorer.<\/p>\n
Here, Katie Bell shares why she and her family continue to the support the AYF year after year:<\/p>\n
What sets the AYF programs apart from other youth development programs, in your opinion? What is one way the AYF impacted you and your family? Why do you support the AYF today? Why should others support the AYF through financial gifts or volunteering? Miniwanca and the four-fold way of living were fundamental to Albie Bell and Katie Maus as teenagers attending and working at camp in the \u201980s and \u201990s. They passed these values on to their sons, Nate and Sam, who continue the family tradition of working at and attending summer camp this year. Nate joins the seasonal staff as an LIT … <\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>“What I love about the AYF is the opportunity for youth to really seek their very own best self. It’s celebrated to be unique and<\/em> be part of a robust, positive community.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>\u201cOur family exists because of the AYF. Our parents chose it as a place to send us as kids. Balanced living \u2013 honoring and seeking ways to live the four folds in our daily life is what connects us as a family. Teaching this philosophy to our children from the very beginning has helped them grow into strong, wise, kind humans.\u201d<\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>\u201cWe support the AYF today because the organization fundamentally supports youth where they are today. It is an organization that has always seen the best in kids and provides skills and opportunities that so rarely exist elsewhere.\u201d\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
\n<\/strong>\u201cWe only have one chance to inspire youth to be their best selves \u2013 to offer ways to support the mission and growth of the AYF, keep the spark going, and encourage others to come and see, try and do, and see the good in the community.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"