Spark Retreat at Merrowvista
An AYF Adult Program | August 23 to 25, 2024
Aligning with the AYF’s value of continuous learning, adults 21 and older are invited to participate in a three-day Spark retreat at Merrowvista.
During our time together, we will participate in scheduled sessions/workshops, personal reflection, small group and community-wide experiential programs, and enough unscheduled time to fully absorb the beauty of Merrowvista. Participants will experience a retreat with with tangible takeaways with opportunities to rest, recover, rejuvenate, and reconnect in a safe, fun, and welcoming environment.
All are welcome.
- Previous experience with AYF programs is not required. The content will be tailored for adults, and all participants ages 21 and older are welcome.
- As with all AYF programs, we believe in the power and importance of the full expression of all individuals. We enthusiastically welcome people of all identities, beliefs, life experiences, and abilities, and we are committed to reducing any barriers that may prevent your full participation.
The retreat will close Sunday after light breakfast and a short morning session. We welcome your family to join you after for an optional lunch and time to join activities before heading home.
Questions? Email Director of Adult Programs Holley Young at [email protected] or learn more about the 2022 Spark retreat online.
Rates and Lodging
Dates: August 23 to 25, 2024
Standard Rate: $275
A $100 deposit is required at the time of registration.
Lodging: Dormitory-style lodging will be available.
Our Team
The inaugural Spark at Merrowvista will feature some familiar faces! Meet the 2024 team.
Matt Loper
Matt Loper returns to Merrowvista for this special three-day program. Matt has served in several roles with the American Youth Foundation during his 15 year tenure with the organization. Matt has inspired thousands of young people at Miniwanca and Merrowvista camps, conferences, and community and school programs, and he’s excited to return to the Ossipee Mountains once again.
“My hope is that this retreat will be the first of many, offering participants a recurring opportunity to recharge,” he says. “I aim for the program to leave participants with renewed clarity about their purpose and how to navigate life for the greater good, unleashing their incredible gifts.”
Holley Young
Director of Adult Programs Holley Young brings a wealth of experience running American Youth Foundation adult programs to Merrowvista. She is a long Summer Seminars for Women participant and volunteer, who stepped into the part-time role of Adult Programs Lead in 2022 and Director of Adult Programs in 2023. She helped launch Spark at Miniwanca in 2022 and is excited to bring the program to Merrowvista.
“From arrival to departure, the Spark community will feel like they are right at home,” she says. “Creating the sense of real belonging, receiving hospitality and welcome, and growing in community together is not a site-specific value of the AYF. We are thrilled to extend Spark at beautiful Merrowvista!”
