In January, we announced dates and changes to our summer 2021 program offerings. Unfortunately, guidance regarding COVID-19 means we cannot offer our off-site Four Trails programs this year, since campers cannot leave Miniwanca or Merrowvista after they arrive.

We know how disheartening this news is to those who hoped to complete Odyssey, Voyageur, Adventurer, and Explorer treks this summer. They’ve looked forward to this for years, and we share in their frustration and disappointment.

While it is not safe to do Four Trails this summer, we are fortunate that Miniwanca and Merrowvista are an extensive, dynamic spaces that offer so much more than what they saw as younger campers. We are confident our Wayfinder program at Miniwanca and at Merrowvista will provide new adventures that take advantage of all our beautiful campuses have to give and allow the oldest campers to still earn their rugby or vest!

As we develop Wayfinder, we want campers’ input – what do they want this summer to be? We hope they’ll help us strike the right balance between rugged wilderness challenges, extended service projects that make a lasting impact, and more.

We invite high school-aged campers to share their thoughts and learn more about Wayfinder on Zoom with AYF Program Director Matt Loper and the Miniwanca and Merrowvista Camp Directors. We’ll discuss what summer 2021 can look like and answer any questions they may have. (Parents, we hope you’ll encourage your child to join this campers-only conversation.)

Join Merrowvista on Wednesday, Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. EST and/or Saturday, Jan. 23 at 11 a.m. EST. (Password: 12345678)

Join Miniwanca on Wednesday, Jan. 20 at 8 p.m. EST and/or Saturday, Jan. 23 at 12 p.m. EST. (Password: 12345678)

Like you, we are sad we cannot do all we had dreamed of this summer, but with your help, we will adjust our sails and create new opportunities for growth, friendship, and challenges this summer as Wayfinders.