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Jan Strube is a keeper of AYF history, preserving photographs, memories, and more as a volunteer archivist. Her passion for the AYF began as a Miniwanca Younger Girls camper in 1954, and she’s been involved ever since as a seasonal staff member, camper parent and grandparent. She’s also been a longtime participant of AYF adult programs like summer Seminars for Women and Girls Camp Reunions.

Jan’s dedication to the AYF archives and her work as volunteer alumni liaison has resulted in a robust archives collection online and at Miniwanca and Merrowvista. Here, she shares the origin of her family’s AYF connection and why she’s still giving back to the AYF seven decades after her first summer at camp.

What is your family’s history with the AYF?

“Our family’s camp story really began with my mother coming to Miniwanca in the 1930s, when she was a struggling high school student. Her physical education teacher found a scholarship for her to attend the Older Girls leadership conferences. The teacher brought her to camp and even helped provide clothes.

“My mom’s whole life was changed. She was about to quit high school. But this teacher believed in her, kept her inspired about life and what she could become. That moment changed the destiny of four generations of our family.”

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

“There comes a time when you look back at all the benefits you’ve received, how your life has been shaped, who you’ve become, and you realize so much of it is connected to this institution. When you’re here, it feels like home. The people here challenge you, energize you.

“I learned how to have fun and how to play. I learned to look up to mentors. The conferences prepared me for college. But most of all, I learned how to compete without needing to be an all-out, die-hard winner. I loved the games, the teamwork. I think I really grew in that area.

“I also loved making song parodies, skits, and performing with a group. As an only child, that gave me a vital part of my social development. It allowed me to really blossom.”

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

“My daughter was able to come here, as well as four of my grandchildren. I saw them develop confidence and unique approaches to problem-solving that stood out among their peers. They’d talk to their teachers about what they did at camp all the time. The AYF teaches a very unique, well-rounded, and balanced life experience. It shapes how your family approaches celebration, hardship, and hard work in a completely different way.”

Why do you support the AYF today?

“The opportunity to continually be challenged, to make a difference, and feel a sense of accomplishment motivate me to seek out special projects. I love to learn, and then to put that learning to use. Experiences as an entrepreneur in the photofinishing industry years ago gave me an appreciation for the place photography takes in history, and family heritage especially. Volunteering is fun work.

“I enjoy having friends across the generations, as they make me remember what’s really important, and prepare for the future as well. Volunteers often do what the staff would like to do, but don’t have time to accomplish due to the day-to-day management tasks. Volunteers have the chance to be part of the value-added, which benefits all in the community.”

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

“It is a true opportunity to carry the torch and keep the organization strong for future generations. Supporting AYF helps to continue the opportunity for those who most need this light in their lives. Young people need a place where they can develop their potential; their best self so they can lead their world. For me, supporting AYF is a gift that keeps my soul singing!”