Discover your own best self
We’re a nonprofit youth development organization that engages thousands of youth year-round through community and school programs, summer camps, and leadership conferences at our beautiful properties, Merrowvista in New Hampshire and Miniwanca in Michigan.
Since 1925, we have welcomed young people from around the world to our campuses to discover the richness of our outdoor environments, the fun of interacting with a positive community, and the challenge of self-discovery.
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Miniwanca
Michigan
Set on 360 wooded acres and a mile of private Lake Michigan shoreline, Miniwanca Girls Camp and Boys Camp is a breathtaking and inspiring setting for growth.
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Merrowvista
New Hampshire
Set on over 600 acres in the pristine Ossipee Mountains of New Hampshire, Merrowvista draws you into a life that is rustic, uncomplicated, and filled with excitement.
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National Leadership Conference
An 8-day conference for high school and college students, held in June at Miniwanca in Shelby, Michigan.
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Staff Spotlight: Patrick O’Hagin
Patrick O’Hagin is a beloved, mustachioed presence at Merrowvista – and a man of many talents. As Facilities Manager, he makes sure the buildings, grounds, …
The AYF welcomes new board chair DD Danforth-Burlin
The American Youth Foundation turns the page to a new chapter this month as it transitions to new board leadership. After nearly 20 years of …
Camp Conquest – July 28, 2021
Morning Wayfinder C led Flag Raise on this golden day. They shared how they’ve grown in the past year and then swiftly headed to Out …
County Fair – July 24, 2021
Morning Breakfast this morning was happily interrupted by a Wayfinder D/E flash mob! Little Bigelow prepared for their hiking trip with a fire starting …
Day 10 – July 20, 2021
Morning This joyful morning, our Go Getters were out in full force. Moosilaukee, Chocorua, Little Bigelow, and Tri-Pyramid met on the basketball court shooting …
Day 7 – July 17, 2021
Morning Tri-Pyramid led this morning’s flag raise. They shared a heartfelt list of all they’re truly grateful for this summer. Chocorua’s creativity was on …