Discover your own best self.
We’re a nonprofit youth development organization that engages thousands of youth year round through community & school programs, summer camps, and leadership conferences at our beautiful properties in New Hampshire (Merrowvista) and Michigan (Miniwanca).
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.
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
June 14-21, 2019
An 8-day conference for high school and college students, held in June at Miniwanca in Shelby, Michigan.
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Winter Wonders and Volunteer Weekend
Even in the midst of this season of epic winter cold, it’s a busy time at Miniwanca. Since the beginning of 2019, Miniwanca has already …
A Season of Change – A Message from Anna Kay and Heather
As many of you may know, Anna Kay and Heather have worked in partnership to lead the AYF for many decades. It is with mixed …
Apply to Work Summer 2019
With the Miniwanca Staff Application officially open for Summer 2019 (#JoinTheTeam2019), we’re looking forward to connecting with new and returning staff members from all around …
Remembering Marie Prange Oetting
Marie Prange Oetting had a life-long involvement with the American Youth Foundation and embraced the timeless mission of balanced living and best self as an …
Adventuring the Connecticut River
“Draw right! Forward! Left! Nice, we made it!” These calls emanated from our canoe as we navigated our way down one of a number of …
A Four Trails Summer In Review
As all of the campers, parents, and leaders begin to settle back into their homes and things quiet down from the summer, I’m left reflecting on …