Founder Fire 2021 by American Youth Foundation

2021

Aspire Nobly, Adventure Daringly, Serve Humbly

INSIDE Letter from the President. . .................... 1 Meet AYF Board Chair DD Danforth-Burlin................................. 2 Summer 2021: Rekindling Community......................... 4 NLC Finds Closer Connection............. 8 Golfing for Good.................................... 10 A Year of Renovation............................ 12 Creating Conversation and Change. . ............................................ 13 Enkindled Spirits.................................... 14 Remembering Our Founder Family.............................. 15 2020 Giving Highlights........................ 16 Honor Roll.. ............................................... 17 Save the Date 2022.............................. 25

A Letter

from the President the coronavirus, and we must be equally committed to improving our physical, spiritual, social, and mental health as individuals and communities. Thanks for understanding this and supporting the AYF as we worked to do our part this season.

After a long year of wait and worry, the bells of Miniwanca and Merrowvista finally rang once again this summer. They signaled much more than a return – each intonation was an invitation. Campers and staff responded to the call of these loud, glorious clangs to accomplish the remarkable and, at times, the ridiculous. Life at our campuses this summer was hard-earned good. It was fun, different, difficult, heavy on logistics, and it was life shaping.

With your help, we were able to offer hundreds of participants safe and beautiful places to laugh, stretch, and grow in the company of their peers. Those who attended our programs, as well as a bold few who dared a self-designed growth experience, got out of their houses, off their screens, and into adventures that allowed them to draw meaning from the past year. Some of their accomplishments and learnings are shared in this issue of The Founder Fire. I hope these stories give you needed fuel for your own inner fire as winter sets in.

Our AYF participants and staff reaffirmed that when we act with shared purpose – in song, play, problem solving, and sweaty, challenging service – we are healthier and happier. When we set our sights high and dare to aspire nobly (giving of self for the greater good), adventure daringly (bravely pushing beyond the known and comfortable), and serve humbly (using our capacities to improve the condition of others, not for praise from them, but in praise of them), we become more alive. The pursuit of best self builds spirits and save lives. It is the good medicine so many now need.

Finally, I want to give a mighty “Hear! Hear!” to our staff and volunteers for their heroics in a season that asked so much of them. Thanks, too, to our AYF board and committee members, as well as our medical advisory team, for the long hours spent in the name of prevention. We did it, Team AYF. We kept the lights on, we kept the virus out, we kept the bells ringing, and above all, we introduced youth to the best within them.

These difficult times have taken a toll on each of us, and our youth and young adults need special tending. Too many arrived at our gates more fragile than before, overpacked with worry and undercharged with hope. Far too many could not attend at all. All youth deserve to be more excited about their futures, and we intend to expand our 2022 program offerings to enable that. We must all remain dogged in our efforts to contain and eradicate

And now, with newfound gratitude for the privilege, we begin again.

MEET AYF BOARD CHAIR

DD Danfor by Catherine Klene

The American Youth Foundation has played a pivotal role in DD Danforth-Burlin’s life. The four-fold way of living has steered her through her youth as a Miniwanca camper and leader, a National Leadership Conference participant, a successful lawyer and activist, a Merrowvista camper parent, and a 25-year member of the AYF board of directors. Today, that same foundational philosophy guides her as chair of the board, a role she assumed in August. Here, Danforth-Burlin shares fond Miniwanca and Merrowvista memories, her thoughts on this generation of campers, and her hopes for the future of the AYF.

What do you remember about your first camp experience? “My very first year at Miniwanca, I sent a letter to my parents in which I said, ‘I love camp. This is so much fun. I’m a member of the Draws tribe. We have a cheer that goes like this.’ And I wrote out the entirety of this nonsense cheer, and it was complete gibberish to them! Then I wrote, ‘And we have a camp clap, and it goes like this: clap, clap, clap, clap…’ Everything was so meaningful to me as a 9-year-old, and I wanted them to feel my joy in that letter.” What was your favorite tradition as a camper? “I loved Night’s Doings. I have a very funny memory of the camperleader hunt. At the time, campers hid from leaders. My friends and I had a well-hidden place in the woods, completely covered in leaves. We were totally invisible, and no one found us. And then we spent the next week going to the health center dealing with chiggers, mosquitos, poison ivy... It was worth the price though – we won!”

What is one of your favorite memories as a camper parent? “Nearly every year, I went to the Closing Circle at Merrowvista, and I watched my boys start as the youngest campers and rise through the age groups. Every year, we’d watch the oldest kids pass a candle flame from kid to kid as they’d sing Follow the Gleam. They’ve gone through their whole program, and now they’re passing their torch to the campers below them. It’s a moment of such pride and gratitude – it makes you a complete mess when you watch your kids pass that flame.” How has your legal career benefited you in the nonprofit space? “When you’ve been through law school, the way you think about problems changes. It’s very process- and logic-oriented. I will always be a lawyer. I can retire but I will always have legal thinking as the way I address a problem.” 2

orth-Burlin

Thank you, David Danforth I’ll bet there are few nonprofit leadership duos who have worked together longer than David Danforth and I. We’ve been happily united in our efforts to further the mission of the AYF for more than 35 years, each working in a variety of roles. For the last 20 years, David has humbly and dutifully served as our board chair, and this summer, he decided it was time to pass the torch to DD Danforth-Burlin. I will miss him in the role, but I trust he won’t go far.

What value do youth development programs provide? “It’s so important for kids to have the freedom and space to take a deep dive into who they are away from their families and structures. The most meaningful part of AYF programs is getting the kids out of their day-to-day routines and putting them in a thoughtful, caring environment where they have the power to decide for themselves who they want to be.”

I feel uniquely qualified to send David on his way with this character reference: He is a good, kind man who has been generous in his service to the AYF. I have known David as a parent who hurried home to help his then-young children with schoolwork and as a summer programmer who shared his talent and trimaran with intrigued campers. He’s the “pie guy” who marked staff achievements with delicious fruit pies from Woodland Farm Market in Shelby, Michigan. He flips a mean burger and brews a smooth tea. He rolls up his sleeves and gets into the work, literally. David has crawled under many buildings on our campuses, and he has had a hand in buying, building, or renovating almost every one. He has taken seriously his charge to keep the mission and the assets of the AYF in good health.

What are the needs of youth today? “This generation is a different kind of kid. They care deeply about what’s going on in the world, and they’re pretty well informed. Young people really see themselves as change agents, so how can the AYF give them the skills they need to learn leadership? How do we give them the internal strength to get them where they want to go? That’s the mission of the AYF. We can give these kids the tools to make the world a better place.” Which tools are most important for youth today? “A million young people working in concert with one another to better our country and our globe is great. A million isolated people not working together doesn’t do very much. Getting people to understand community, what it is to work together – that’s the setting the AYF can provide. I want to make sure we as an organization can be resilient and in turn help them build their resilience.”

The AYF centennial in 2025 will be a significant part of your tenure as board chair. What opportunities does this milestone present? “My great-grandfather, William H. Danforth, always said, ‘What’s next?’ Let’s celebrate what we’ve done, and let’s focus on the future. The centennial gives us an opportunity to make sure we as an organization are doing our own four-fold introspection. Are we meeting our own goals of best self? Are we doing the best we can to share our mission and serve as many people as we can, as best we can? The centennial lets us reach into the past and celebrate, and it also lets us look ahead and ask how we make sure thousands of people are served going forward.”

As board chair, he was a kind, trusted advisor, a source of unwavering support, and a comrade advancing the work of the AYF. He was my first phone call when facing a serious concern and a steady, honest thought partner who pushed our organization and made us stronger. Together, we chased dollars, dreams, and demons.

Where will the AYF be in the decades to come? “I can’t tell you what the needs of kids decades from now will be or what the world will look like then. What I do know is that our mission and the four-fold way of living worked for my greatgrandfather 100 years ago. It worked for my kids three years ago. We’ve spanned a century with a philosophy that is timeless.”

Please join me in thanking David for his service, and in thanking his wife, Tina, for her goodhumored support. And the next time you slice into a pie, raise a fork in honor of David.

I have often received too much credit for the success of the AYF. The good we do is the work of many, and almost all the work of the past two decades has been under the quiet leadership and gentle care of David Danforth.

Gratefully, Anna Kay Vorsteg

Rekindling Community by Catherine Klene

For the first time in more than a year, a familiar sound could be heard across the dunes of Miniwanca and the valleys of Merrowvista: campers’ voices, laughing and singing as they finally returned to American Youth Foundation properties. AYF Senior Director of Programs Matt Loper said while 2021 was still a year affected by the pandemic, it was thrilling to welcome campers back to Miniwanca and Merrowvista once again.

“Every year, we take great care to build diverse, balanced cabin communities that offer campers the opportunity to make new connections with children from different socioeconomic, geographic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds,” he said. “The application process allowed us to maintain that careful, intentional balance in our 2021 camp communities.”

“It’s so sad when Merrowvista or Miniwanca are empty and an absolute delight when they are filled with communities of purposeful young campers,” Loper said. “There was an electric joy in the air this summer as we celebrated something truly special after such a long, difficult stretch of time.”

AYF Senior Health and Safety Director Astrid Wielens was pleased to report there were no cases of COVID-19 at Merrowvista or Miniwanca this summer. “The coronavirus never entered our camps and that is entirely thanks to the tremendous efforts of camp families and staff that began well before camp started,” she said.

COVID-19 presented new challenges in 2021, but the AYF was determined to offer summer programming at Miniwanca and Merrowvista, even if it would be different. They knew that after 18 months of social isolation, youth needed the social and emotional solace only camp could provide.

Anyone who was onsite at Miniwanca or Merrowvista this summer had to adhere to strict COVID-19 prevention protocols in the 10 days prior to their arrival at camp. Once they arrived at staff training or on Opening Day, everyone was tested for COVID-19 and tested again three days later. This created a COVID-free bubble that allowed those inside to forgo masking while outside or in their cabin groups.

Or, as Andrea Caesar, mother of Merrowvista camper Anelya, said: “Reintegrating her into a group of kids after one-and-a-half years of remote learning was critical this year. I’m so grateful that she was able to spend the summer at camp and reconnect with life as it should be.”

Adjusting Our Sails

This year, the AYF offered a single three-week session at both at Miniwanca in Michigan and Merrowvista in New Hampshire. Due to the unique requirements and limitations of the summer, the AYF knew it would not be able to accommodate all who wished to attend camp this year. Loper acknowledged how disappointing it was to not be able to welcome the usual number of campers, but explained the extended application process implemented this year aimed to make access to camp as fair as possible.

Miniwanca Boys Camp Director Michael Harter said he was grateful to camp families for their pre-camp caution, and he was particularly impressed with the seasonal staff who chose to enter the camp bubble as COVID-19 rules were being relaxed in many places across the country. “It’s important to give a real ‘Hear, hear!’ to the young staff who made a choice to come to another bubble and give up a social life just as things were reopening in June,” Harter said. “They knew this experience was so important for youth. Our staff made sacrifices – even their days off were spent onsite in the bubble – but those 18-, 19-, and 20-year-olds gave that up because they knew how important it was for kids to be at camp this summer.”

Living in Community

Miniwanca Girls Camp Director Emily Knuth anticipated it would be difficult for youth to return to living in community after so many months of remote learning.

“Certainly COVID anxiety played a role, but also, youth just hadn’t had a lot of practice living in community with one another,” she said. “We saw more raw, intense emotion from campers during week one of the session.”

conflict that arises out of communal life. Each village at Merrowvista spent more time as a cluster of 12 to 14 people than any summer ever before. Campers increased their S-fold skills and navigated through this healthy conflict in increasingly effective and skilled ways as the session unfolded.”

Knuth said the changes in campers’ emotional and social well-being over three weeks was remarkable. “The first week was the toughest for us because we were all masked and there was anxiety waiting for test results,” she said. “Once it was safe for campers to remove their masks, they were able to see each other’s expressions and relax a bit more. People were more at ease, more joyful.”

Caesar saw that growth in Anelya and said she appreciates how camp offered her child the opportunity to discover her best self in a safe, inclusive environment.

Brian Lynch said summer at Miniwanca helped his daughter, Claire, learn how structure could ease the stresses of the pandemic. “She had a wonderful experience and came back more like her prepandemic self,” he said. “The social anxiety that had crept in during COVID improved, and she thrived on the structure that she is trying to carry forward.”

“I appreciate that Anelya feels safe enough to lean into discomfort, to dare to try new things and improve at activities she is already familiar with,” Caesar said. “As I raise a child in such a worrisome time in the world, sending my daughter to such an inclusive environment that not only welcomes but fosters diversity feels like a responsibility and a privilege to me as a parent.”

While many elements of camp soothed anxiety and isolation, Knuth said it also gave campers the opportunity to discuss larger issues like the pandemic, social justice, and equity.

Lindsey Mogren echoed that sentiment, saying Merrowvista gave her daughter, Ella, the opportunity to think critically about her values. “I love that she has the opportunity to experience a place that actively and overtly lives by values that we hold in our family and to think about how these are practiced,” she said. “The ability to make and grow new friendships in such an open, honest and authentic way (without the ancillary challenges of middle school, peer pressure, phones, etc.) is something I hope she recognizes as possible, not just the exception. Knowing this way of being with others is not only possible, but also healthy and real, is something I hope she will carry with her through the year.”

Wayfinders Chart a New Course

One of the biggest changes to summer 2021 was the launch of the Wayfinder program, which replaced the traditional Four Trails experience this year. The pandemic prevented campers and staff from embarking on the Odyssey, Voyageur, Adventurer, and Explorer trips, but it also gave them the opportunity to explore the hundreds of acres that make up Merrowvista and Miniwanca and provide valuable service to the camp community.

“I think a lot of people were looking for an escape, to get away from the world’s problems, but for a lot of campers and staff, it was a wake-up moment for them,” Knuth said. “It allowed to them to rethink why camp is there and how it can rekindle and recenter them as they go back into the world. Camp is as much the real world as anywhere else, but it’s a safe place where we can talk about these things and how we deal with big issues in our lives in a safe, respectful way.”

At Miniwanca, Wayfinders spent their last week trekking to the Well Site, where they camped and took on an extended “solo” experience in the woods. At Merrowvista, the oldest Wayfinders hiked out armed with sledgehammers and power tools to rebuild the Ledge Shelter, now dubbed the North Star Shelter. “The Wayfinders rose beautifully to the occasion and came at everything thrown their way with a ton of spirited open-mindedness,” Loper said. “Most of the campers had no idea what to expect, yet they totally leaned into the newness of the Wayfinder program.”

More than 900 miles away, the same conversations were taking place at Merrowvista. Loper and AYF President Anna Kay Vorsteg returned to their hands-on programming roots this summer, assisting Merrowvista Camp Director Chris Wellens, who welcomed his first child just as staff training began.

Both camps honored their accomplishments with a “hike in,” welcoming them back to the community and celebrating their persistence and dedication in the face of so much uncertainty and change. And there was one important tradition that withstood the test of the pandemic and changes to the program: Wayfinders were presented with their well-earned rugbies at Closing Fire.

“I think a lot of campers grew a ton in self-confidence and in selfaffirmation. It was a big deal to assemble as we did this year, and it was not lost on the campers that their experiences were different than prior years’ expectations,” Loper said. “I think, too, that campers had to face more of the healthy and natural interpersonal

Bringing It Home

Three weeks of living in community rekindled the spirit of best self for hundreds of youth this summer, something one Miniwanca parent noticed immediately when she picked up her daughter.

As camp came to a close, Harter said he watched campers confront the reality of leaving the safety of the community they’d formed in the bubble. He addressed anxieties at Closing Fire, reminding youth of the power of their own best selves as they returned home.

“Since coming home, she has energy. She’s talking to me again and just seems lighter, more confident and at peace,” she said. “I feel like this summer gave my daughter what she was craving most – a deep sense of belonging and friendship. She told me she doesn’t think she’s ever laughed so hard. I don’t think I realized just how lonely she has been until I saw the impact camp had on her.”

“We encouraged kids to find ways to connect with each other away from camp and bring that spirit of community home,” he said. “We talked about how there is no ‘real world’ separate from Miniwanca. The community we build and support here doesn’t have to stay here. The messages of the Founders, of best self and balanced living – we bring them home.”

Pursuing Personal Odysseys and Voyages Four Trails campers who couldn’t attend Wayfinder this year had the opportunity to complete personal Odyssey and Voyageur experiences this summer. Nearly 30 youth proposed and completed individual voyages of discovery, earning their rugbies and returning “home” with new or enhanced gifts to share with their communities.

Miniwanca camper Margaux Patterson earned her Voyageur rugby while serving humbly as an LIT at Camp Ho Mita Koda near Cleveland, Ohio. The overnight camp serves children with Type 1 diabetes, which she was diagnosed with in September 2020. “When I heard about this camp, I was inspired to help younger kids that might be experiencing the same things I am as I figure out how to manage this disease,” she said in her proposal.

Merrowvista camper Lila Smith’s personal Voyageur trip saw her cycling approximately 700 miles from Portland, Oregon to San Francisco with an organization called Overland. Smith said the trip was challenging, but the lessons learned at Merrowvista helped her make new friends, push through the tough days, and appreciate the good ones.

Senior Director of Programs Matt Loper said these teens’ achievements were even more remarkable because they did not have the support of their traditional camp communities. “The goal of AYF programs is to bring our gifts and learning to our home communities,” he said. “These 26 young leaders did that quite literally this summer, embracing the spirit of the hero’s journey while far from Miniwanca or Merrowvista. They have set a high standard to which we should all aspire.”

“I was able to, in the middle of this very chaotic, high-energy trip, find a moment to breathe and talk to myself about what’s going on – exercising my R-fold,” she said. “I’d find myself biking for miles and saying, ‘Let’s not interact with people for a while. Let’s just leave yourself to your head and appreciate what’s around you and be in the moment.’”

NLC FINDS

CLOSER CONNECTION By Dana Rieck

NLC Volunteer Staff

Bold Hearts, Rising Voice

National Leadership Conference participants were finally able to gather on the dunes of Miniwanca once again this year, albeit in a new, more intimate way.

While the COVID-19 pandemic prevented the traditional eight-day annual conference this year, the American Youth Foundation hosted two four-day mini-conferences, bringing both challenges and unexpected benefits. The first mini-conference from July 22 to 25 welcomed 32 participants from the Connected in Compassion and yunážiŋkhiyA classes, and the second took place July 29 to Aug. 1 with 12 members of the Bold Hearts, Rising Voice class.

“We very intentionally went through the curriculum — you can imagine it’s very hard to go through a seven-day curriculum and try to put it basically within 48 hours — and it took a tremendous amount of time and lots of Zoom sessions back and forth with my co-mentors,” she said. O’Brien echoed that, saying finding a balance of feeling prepared and not feeling overwhelmed was the most challenging element of the mini-conferences. They wanted to be sure the participants got something meaningful out of the conference but didn’t feel stretched thin. Both staff members said they hope to continue to be able to pivot the curriculum once the conference goes back to its full eight days.

Central staff member Erin O’Brien has been a part of NLC since summer 2000 — she graduated as a participant and has volunteered ever since. She loves being witness to those “a-ha” moments where people connect with an idea or learn something about themselves. This year’s conference, she said, provided plenty of those same moments, despite being shorter and smaller than a typical year. “I think people really needed the familiarity and knowing that that positive community is still there, and that even with all these crazy things going on in the world, we are still a place where you can have safe, open conversations about things that might be difficult to talk about,” she said. Claire Swayze is a member of the Bold Hearts, Rising Voice class and attended the mini-conference this year. She felt the conversations were deeper, and it was easier to be more open and authentic in the smaller group.

Intentionality is also something else O’Brien emphasized, noting participants gathered frequently to ask important questions and made sure there was time and space for everyone to feel like they had a voice. This, she noted, is not always the case in the larger group setting.

“The one thing that I really noticed is by splitting up the conferences, we really got to deep dive into some of the things that have been going on in the world, and I got to form some really close connections with those from my class that did attend,” Swayze said.

Hughes said the modifications also changed the way in which organizers measured the success of the event — moving away from a numerical-based assessment of retention to direct feedback from participants. “The kids in the class were so wonderful to each other, and so I think that was one of the other surrogate markers for us,” she said.

Like Swayze, Landon Schumacker, a member of the yunážiŋkhiyA class, said the smaller group afforded some intimacy not usually found at the larger conference. One of his 2021 standout NLC moments was the Opening Fire, usually a loud and raucous event with hundreds of people. This year, he said the energy was totally different, but no less inspiring.

Both Schumacker and Swayze encourage anyone thinking to join NLC to do so. Schumacker said he would be “unrecognizable” without his conference experience. Swayze said the community and mission of the conference touches her heart every year and she takes pride in being a part of NLC’s legacy.

“That was one of the first times during the conference — and I would have this moment several times over — where I was like, ‘This is the same, this is great,’” Schumacker said. “It didn’t feel abbreviated or super altered. It felt like conference in a really fantastic and really impactful way.”

“We all are there for the same reason: We are all there to just do good in this world and to learn how to help others to do good in this world, and that is just so important,” Swayze said. O’Brien encapsulated why the conference resonates with so many, this year and historically.

Class mentor organizer Amy Hughes said last year was tough, especially for the participants slated to graduate, because the virtual NLC-Z in 2020 was so different and challenging. This year, she and other organizers worked hard to turn the traditional eight-day experience into four days with purpose and meaning.

“What makes it magical and what makes the connections is the positive community,” she said. “It’s about having a place to go that’s not only beautiful physically, but beautiful in the way that people treat each other, in the way that people communicate with one another and in the things that we learn about ourselves while we are there.”

Golfing for Good by Catherine Klene

The sun shone bright and clear on a warm September afternoon as the annual Donald Danforth Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament returned once again to St. Louis. Dozens of golfers and volunteers were on hand to enjoy an afternoon of sport and fun, as well as to raise more than $55,000 in net revenue for scholarship funds.

Participants also heard from new AYF board chair DD DanforthBurlin and President Anna Kay Vorsteg, who ceded the microphone to 16-year-old Miniwanca camper Jack Kuhlman.

The golf tournament began in 2001 to honor the legacy of passionate AYF champion Donald Danforth Jr. Though the pandemic forced its cancelation in 2020, the AYF and presenting sponsor Nestlé Purina PetCare Co. were pleased to welcome golfers back for the 19th time at a new location, Algonquin Golf Club.

Clad in his recently earned rugby, Kuhlman spoke to the attendees about how the AYF has affected his life and shared an evening reflection he originally penned during his Wayfinder experience at Miniwanca this summer.

The golf tournament is the AYF’s signature fundraiser, raising more than $1.5 million for youth to experience exceptional programming at Miniwanca and Merrowvista since its inception. The funds generated through the tournament provide financial assistance to inspire dozens of youth each year to discover their best selves.

Kuhlman said Wayfinder taught him that to be his best self is to be his authentic self. “Opening myself up allowed me to make some amazing friends and form deeper bonds than I would have been able to if I had tried to be someone else,” he said. “On Wayfinder, I have had the opportunity to explore who that self really is while having a spectacular time along the way.”

Advancement Manager Annie Oliverio said the donors’ generosity was greatly appreciated. “The funds raised at this event open the doors to so many new opportunities for youth across the country who will be able to discover their best selves through programs at Miniwanca and Merrowvista, the National Leadership Conference, and our Community and School Programs,” she said.

Kuhlman said his rugby was a constant reminder to dare to be better each day. “I can push through any challenge, be a leader and endure anything while having a good time,” he said. “The values that are instilled through camp don’t just dissipate after those few weeks. Looking back at the time between camp and now, I see myself taking on new challenges with a newfound confidence.”

Senior Director of Advancement Liz Marshall said it was wonderful to connect with so many supporters in person while also maintaining safe COVID-19 protocols at the open-air event.

Kuhlman ended his remarks with a dare for the assembled guests: “I dare all of you to do something kind for a stranger. Give them a compliment, pick something up for them, or even just give them a smile to brighten their day – anything that will help spread that camp spirit just a little further.”

“Many of the golfers and volunteers are lifelong Founder Friends who look forward to this tournament each year,” Marshall said. “It was such a pleasure to catch up with so many familiar faces and thank them personally for contributing to our mission.”

Vorsteg said she loved that Kuhlman challenged everyone to be their own best selves. “Jack’s speech was such a powerful example of the effect AYF programs have on youth – and the effect youth can have on us,” Vorsteg said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

After a day on the links, golfers returned to Algonquin’s patio for drinks and hors d’oeuvres. KMOX sports director Tom Ackerman emceed the evening’s program, setting – and quickly surpassing – a $20,000 fund-a-need goal.

The AYF hopes to return the Donald Danforth Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament to its original month of May in 2022.

by Liz Marshall

During the months without program at Miniwanca and Merrowvista, quiet did not last long on the hillsides or the dunes. Facilities teams at both sites took advantage of empty campuses to tackle larger renovation projects that will enhance beloved buildings and grounds.

completed before the 2021 summer season, allowing the building to be open and ready for the returning campers. These upgrades helped better manage a safe dining environment during the pandemic. Miniwanca Facilities Manager Chad Warner and colleagues were hard at work renovating 55 cabins at Girls Camp and Boys Camp. Along with local carpenters and contractors, they renovated each cabin from the ground up. First, they raised the structures and replaced their foundations. They then reframed each door and window, and they replaced weathered, damaged siding. Each cabin also received new landings, including stairs and handrails, new plywood floors, and a fresh coat of interior and exterior paint.

In New Hampshire, Merrowvista Facilities Manager Patrick O’Hagin and Operations Director Amy Simmons seized the chance to make major upgrades to the central Farmhouse office. “With everyone working remotely, it really was a blessing in disguise to have the perfect opportunity to work on the Farmhouse,” said O’Hagin. The new elements include a meeting room, which the Farmhouse had lacked, as well as two phone rooms to allow for privacy when staff connect with clients.

Campers’ first night in the cabins proved much more comfortable this summer, especially when it came to battling mosquitos. “Previously, there were no bug screens, and the tarps for use in inclement weather were on the exterior of the cabins,” Warner explained. Now, a screen covers each window, and new tarps can be lowered from inside the cabin.

AYF camper parent Amy Dutton donated her time and expertise to make the Farmhouse more functional and inviting for the dozens of staff who use it each year. As an architect and interior designer, Dutton enjoys a strong reputation for bringing full function into existing spaces while elevating their beauty. Dutton did just that for the Farmhouse, honoring the building’s traditional New England style. O’Hagin and Simmons worked with a team of local contractors and carpenters to bring the vision to life, complete with new furnishings, updated light fixtures, and refinished floors.

Even with these impressive projects completed, there is always more work to be done to improve the buildings and grounds. This summer, Miniwanca campers saw a shuttered Assembly building braced with wooden supports to offset shifting that has compromised its foundation. Work to rebuild this beloved structure for the next generation is set to begin in 2022.

At Miniwanca, a generous donation from advisory board member Pat Mulcahy and family funded extensive renovation of the West Eating Lodge in memory of his daughter, Elizabeth Mulcahy Telthorst. New windows fill out the spacious dining area, allowing air flow and plenty of sunshine into the giant building. Floors were refinished with gleaming stain, lighting and fans were replaced, and electrical systems were upgraded throughout the building. Renovations were

The AYF is deeply grateful for the generous donations from alumni, families, and supporters for the ongoing upkeep of these incredible sites, ensuring they will be ready for more campers next summer.

Creating Conversation & Change by Liz Marshall

While the COVID-19 pandemic brought many losses, it also ushered in new methods for creating community using virtual tools instead of live gatherings. One such virtual event took place in spring 2021 when AYF launched a new series for adults called Conversation Circles. The series began with small group discussions about Layla Saad’s Me and White Supremacy: Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor. Stack was struck by the commitment participants showed to attend consistently, show up with honesty, and share in the sometimes painful process of acknowledging their privilege. “It was powerful to see this group of women delve into the challenging work of acknowledging how racism is present in our lives and how the things we think, say, or do have the unintended effect of perpetuating white supremacy,” she said.

The book selection originated from the coordinators of AYF’s Summer Seminars for Women. SSW Coordinator Bridget Stack said they were drawn to the text as an invitation to explore how white people benefit from privilege in ways that cause damage to Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC). “I heard about a powerful discussion group on this book, and it immediately struck me as great material for the SSW community,” explained Stack. While prior programs included community building and conversation, this was the first offering for adults to address social justice issues and to dedicate time to the aspect of the AYF mission that encourages people to “make a positive difference.”

Many participants said they were moved by the process of building trust in the small group setting. Participant Peggy Rush said it made the experience of reading this challenging book much richer. “Although each of us entered the process with a different level of experience and understanding, we ended up in similar kind, empathetic, and caring places at the end,” she said.

In March, 40 adults enrolled in the first Conversation Circles. Meeting through Zoom in biweekly sessions, they worked through the book using a process of group conversation and inquiry called The Circle Way, a structured method of exploring the text. Each week, the participants revisited the expectations for the program, and then broke into their smaller conversation groups, where they rotated the role of “guardian” of the circle. Rather than serving as group leader, the guardian focused on maintaining the integrity of the group by keeping time, ensuring all members could share, and maintaining agreements to speak with respect. This strong group structure created a safe setting for sharing that went deep into the participants’ personal experiences.

Other virtual adult offerings continue to draw the SSW participants and other alumni toward the AYF. Monthly Evening Reflections, a New Year Compass series, and a full virtual Summer Seminars series in July filled out the year. AYF Director of Alumni Relations Molly Mulcahy said she has seen the community grow through these experiences. “It’s not just a process of reminiscing, but about having a real connection in the present with old and new friends, learning new material, and daring to work to make change,” Mulcahy said. For more information about 2022 virtual and in-person adult programs, visit ayf.com.

Members of the AYF community are committed to putting their values into action, and this book offers a roadmap to constructively teach readers what they can do to further racial justice. 13

ROBERT PIKE

GRACE BLINKOFF

HANNAH PUMA

High school physics teacher Robert Pike works hard to learn his students’ names within the first three days of each semester, so they feel valued and appreciated — a habit he started as a longtime mentor for National Leadership Conference.

Upon joining City Year AmeriCorps, each member is presented with a red jacket, which they dedicate to a person, idea, or cause that inspires them to serve. Most people dedicate their red jackets to family or friends — but Merrowvista seasonal staffer Grace Blinkoff said it was a no-brainer for her to dedicate hers to AYF.

Hannah Puma’s AYF experience began when she was a small child, running around Miniwanca as her mom worked at camp for multiple summers. She couldn’t wait to be a camper herself, and she went on to graduate from NLC in 2017. Just like her mom, she has returned each summer to work as an AYF seasonal staffer ever since.

The former Merrowvista camper and seasonal staff member said that, like her City Year red jacket, the mission of the AYF inspires her to wake up and serve others each day. City Year AmeriCorps members work daily in underserved schools for an academic year, working with students to help them succeed in their educations and lives. When Blinkoff graduated from Oberlin College in spring 2020, she said she wasn’t quite ready for grad school and wanted to take time to do something meaningful, which is how she landed with City Year in fall 2020.

Last year during her internship with the AYF, Puma created a multiweek series of dares to be used on Miniwanca, Merrowvista, and NLC social media. She used the recently published For Real and On Purpose and the theme of balanced living to encourage those following the AYF to exercise their four folds from home. Puma said 2020 helped her realize that her annual AYF experience allowed her to recharge her body, soul, and mind. Without it, she searched for a tangible way to connect with others and the AYF mission remotely.

Pike keeps a smile on NLC participants’ faces nearly every summer, but it took nearly 20 years to return to the AYF after his time as a Miniwanca camper and then volunteer, as his teaching schedule was incompatible with NLC programming. He returned to the shores of Lake Michigan when the program was moved from August to June. Pike recalls his time at camp in the 1980s as positive and memorable, so he works to create similar experiences for first-year participants, the group he works with every year. Pike loves the conference’s emphasis on inclusion and open, respectful dialogue. He’s passionate about getting young people to work together — whether at conference or in the classroom — so that they can determine on their own what specifically they need help understanding. Last year Campbell High School students awarded Pike the school’s MLK Humanitarian Award, which honors those who embody the spirit and mission of legendary civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Pike attributes this honor to all he has learned from participants and staff members throughout his time with AYF, passing the flame from one NLC class to the next each year. He said he will continue to mentor NLC participants because the genuine, humble philosophies of best self and balanced living established by the camp’s founders withstand the test of time.

Blinkoff credits her time as a Merrowvista staff member with helping her realize she has a strong passion for working with kids. Blinkoff believes she helps others — whether it's campers or her students — be their best selves by recentering herself every morning. In doing so, she said she creates a continuous cycle of enkindled spirits, where she inspires the students to be their best selves, which in turn inspires her to be her best self. In fact, the AYF motto “My own self, at my very best, all the time,” is what first spoke to Blinkoff as a new camper years ago. She said her time with the AYF taught her she is a lot stronger — physically and mentally — than she ever thought she could be.

Puma said she didn’t intend for so many people to interact with her more than 50 dares (and counting), but hundreds have engaged with the posts. She attributes that to the convenience of seeing it while scrolling through Instagram, an easy, fast way to remind campers and AYF alumni to take time to self-reflect and focus on what matters. Puma said the AYF mission and its four-fold philosophy are beautifully broad, and her time at Miniwanca helped her overcome some uncertainty and confusion regarding her values and spirituality. In her daily life as a high school English teacher in a Milwaukee suburb, Puma believes attending camp developed her strengths as a leader and reinforced her love for kids and her passion for teaching.

Remembering Our Founder Family Dr. Stanley Bushouse

Dr. Stanley Bushouse passed away Nov. 26, 2020. While never a camper himself, he was married to Judy Staebler Bushouse for 57 years. Judy, who survives him, attended Miniwanca beginning in 1954 and graduated from Older Girls Camp in 1962. Their five children, Deborah, Karen, Kristen, Steven, and Wendy, all attended Miniwanca in the ’80s and ’90s, along with many grandchildren. Stan dedicated his professional life to educating youth and was active in his community. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.

Rev. David W. Cammack

The Rev. David Walker Cammack, 95, passed away Aug. 5, 2020. David attended Younger Boys Camp at Miniwanca in 1938 and 1939 and returned as a staff member in Older Boys Camp in 1966 and 1967. His father, Howard H. Cammack, graduated in 1918 from Conference Point on Lake Geneva. David’s sister, Anne, also attended Miniwanca Younger Girls Camp; his daughter, Sally, attended Merrowvista. David dedicated his life to others through the many parishes he served.

Charles Chriswell Jr.

Charles Albert Chriswell Jr., 79, passed away on July 1, 2021. Charlie first came to Miniwanca in 1961 as an Older Boys camper and Younger Boys leader. He would return to both Merrowvista and Miniwanca, his “favorite place on earth,” in many different staff roles for the next 40 years. Charlie’s sister, Peggy Chriswell Peacock, attended Miniwanca Older Girls Camp in the early ’60s. Charlie’s daughter, Stacy, attended camp and ILC and worked at both Merrowvista and Miniwanca in the late ’80s and through the mid-’90s. Charlie is remembered with love by many friends and family.

Harriet Hart Collier

Harriet Hart Collier passed away Nov. 3, 2020. Harriet began attending Camp Miniwanca in 1951 and graduated from Older Girls Camp in 1956. Harriet is survived by her sister, Anne Hart Raymond, who attended Miniwanca Older Girls in 1948. Harriet was married to her husband, Jon Collier, 48 years. Their three children, Karen, Kenneth, and Julanie, all attended

Miniwanca as well. Harriet was a lifelong teacher and is remembered with love.

Bonita G. Bichan Fischer

Bonita G. Bichan Fischer, age 98, passed away on July 14, 2021. Bonnie graduated from Older Girls Camp at Miniwanca in 1943. Her sister, Madeline Bichan Bowlus, graduated from OG in 1941. They both went on to be OG Leaders. Bonnie was married to husband Bud Fischer for 72 years. Their three daughters, Cheryl, Nancy, and Sandy, along with several nieces, nephews, and grandchildren, have attended Miniwanca. Bonnie was committed to modeling a balanced life.

John Foltz

John Charles Foltz passed on Jan. 7, 2021, at 87. He attended Miniwanca Older Boys Camp and graduated in 1953. John’s father, R.M. Foltz, was an Older Boys leader at Miniwanca in 1945. John’s wife, Anne, also attended Miniwanca Older Girls Camp. The framework of four-fold living guided John throughout his personal life and his distinguished career. He will be dearly missed.

Carolyn Finch Ford

Carolyn East Finch Ford passed away June 5, 2021. Carolyn began attending Miniwanca in 1944 and graduated from Older Girls Camp in 1949. Her sister, Jane East, who survives her, graduated from Older Girls camp in 1960. Carolyn stayed in touch with her camp friends and attended Summer Seminars for Women in the early 2000s with her daughter, Laura. Carolyn served her community as a school board member and many other volunteer activities and was an active member of her church.

Dr. Norma Ann Gilbert

Family physician Dr. Norma Gilbert passed away Monday, June 8, 2020 at 69. She came from Ashtabula, Ohio, and set up a family practice in Hart, Michigan, where she worked for many years. She graduated from Miniwanca Older Girls Camp in 1971. During those years she was also a Younger Girls cabin leader and a part of the work staff. She returned to Miniwanca to serve as the camp doctor in the early 1980s. Norma served her community as a board member of a local women’s shelter for over 30 years. 15

Katharine Ann Cooper Hrach

Katharine Ann Cooper Hrach, 87, passed away Nov. 23, 2020. Katharine attended Miniwanca Younger Girls camp beginning in 1948 and graduated from Older Girls Camp in 1954. She returned as a leader many times. Her sister, Mary Cooper Nelson, graduated in the Older Girls class of 1961, and her brother, Stencil Cooper, attended Younger Boys Camp in the ’50s. She was the wife of the late William F. Hrach and loving mother of Elizabeth and William. She spent her life serving others as a mother and a teacher.

Kenneth Wesley Langer

Kenneth Wesley Langer, age 100, passed away Nov. 26, 2020. Ken attended Miniwanca Older Boys Camp in 1938 and 1939. He spent many years as an active member of many service-oriented groups in his community, as well as his church. He will be dearly missed by his family.

Donald Crane Morgan

Donald Crane Morgan, 80, passed away March 26, 2021. Don attended Older Boys Camp at Miniwanca in 1957. A longtime resident of Plymouth, Michigan, he was a pillar of his church and community for over 55 years, as well as spending many years as a dedicated attorney. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Judy, along with two daughters and many grandchildren. His family will remember him for many things, including his sense of humor and his devotion.

Mary Frances Streed

Mary Frances Patterson Streed, 94, passed away on Oct. 14, 2020. She was a Danforth Freshman in 1945, and returned to Miniwanca as a faculty member through 1954. Mary mentored Tokata Class of 1954. She married Edward Streed in 1957, and their children, extended family, and family friends were also involved in Miniwanca as campers and staff. Her family will remember her life of leadership and service. She is survived by her children, Karen, Laurie, Sara, and Jim; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these memorials. Please accept our sincerest apologies for any errors or omissions.

GIVING HIGHLIGHTS | January 1 to December 31, 2020

You Kindled the Flame 2020 was unlike any year in recent memory. For the first time in our 95-year history, the American Youth Foundation was not able to gather with youth in person at Miniwanca and Merrowvista due to the coronavirus pandemic. Our supporters’ generosity during this time was powerfully revealing. Good and generous actions are a well-established norm for our AYF family, but for so many to extend such strong financial support at a time when we all felt the enormous effects of this pandemic was truly a light of hope.

Our deepest thanks to all who helped keep us in motion.

$2,416,183

Total monetary contributions from our AYF community supporters

$1,676,595

Restricted giving including scholarships and facilities projects

$739,588

Contributions without donor restriction

241

Number of families who donated 2020 tuition payments after program cancelation

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

ADVISORY MEMBERS

DD Danforth-Burlin

Donald Danforth III

Daniel Miller

Amy Campbell

Kay Bell

A. Neil Sweeny

Glenn E. Davis

Deborah A. Seidel

Chandlee Dickey

J. Patrick Mulcahy

Andrea Van Cleve

Patricia Jones

Kelly Tyson

John Drew

Gretchen Butler Clayton

Kathryn Lemaire

Patrick West

Shannon O’Toole

Christopher Danforth

Jeffrey McDonnell

Chair

Treasurer Secretary

For more information about our financial statements, including our annual audit, and annual IRS Informational Return Form 990, please visit ayf.com/publications.

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 to December 31, 2020 The American Youth Foundation extends our deepest gratitude to the following individuals, corporations and foundations for their generous support of our programs and the children we serve. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list. Please accept our sincere apologies for any errors or omissions.

FOUNDERS CIRCLE ($10,000+)

The Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Gretchen and Jay Clayton David and Christina Danforth Chandlee Dickey and Lawrence Panych Charlie and Leah Koch The Mulcahy Family Andy and Molly Mulcahy JoAnn Mulcahy Nestlé Purina PetCare Co. Shannon O’Toole O’Brien Family Foundation Polster Family Foundation Margaret Rush Deb Seidel Andrea and Peter Van Cleve Anna Kay Vorsteg and Vicki Boyd

The Hyland Family Mark Isoniemi and Dorothy Warzocha The Jaeger Family Patricia Cobb Jones Monica Kieser and Harry Starbranch Emily and Dennis Knuth Amy and Nathan Kostal Sara J. Kremer Amy and Brady Kress The Estate of James Legere Kathryn and Christophe Lemaire John and Katy Lilly Earl and Cara Littlefield Kelsey Livingston Matthew Loper Jonathan and Suzann Lupton Allen Mahler and Family Liz Marshall Miguel and Kirsten Martin

ADVENTURERS CIRCLE ($1,000+)

David and Sara Bailey Kay and Harvey Bell Meghan and Chris Bliss Gary Bloomfield, Ph.D. Christena Bolton Stephanie Borum and Celeste Jordan The Bowers Family: Amy, Brad, Kal, Ben, and Natalie Teresa Bowers The Bratcher Family John Britton and Victoria Rentel Judith Bushouse Elizabeth Calhoun Meg Campbell Marcia Corbett The Dalton Family Christopher and Molly Danforth Donald and Susannah Danforth

DIRECTORS CIRCLE

Kenneth J. Perkins Margaret Ride Peterson Andreas N. Philippides Scholarship Fund The Price-Kirshbaum Family James and Mary Roberts Dell and Lou Salza Marilyn Ripley Scheerbaum Jon and Jennifer Schmidt Self Interactive Victoria Sherman Kathleen and Matthew Siegel The Slack and Cifuentes Family Cody and Carrie Smith PJ Smith Michael and Margaret St. Pierre St. Louis Christmas Carols Association Santha Stall Courtney Starks and Joseph Jez Carter Stewart and Michelle Alexander Janet G. Strube Mary Struckhoff A. Neil Sweeny and Family Dr. Dean Telthorst John, Christa, Anna, and James Tinker Michael and Jennifer Trippeer Amy Westerhold and Family John R. Woods Foundation

($5,000+)

LEADERS CIRCLE

Anonymous Julie and Mike Austin Dorothy Danforth-Burlin and Johannes Burlin Mrs. Donald Danforth Jr. William H. Danforth, MD John Drew Catherine Dugan Energizer Holdings, Inc. Robert Funkhouser and Jeri Ballard The Gunning Family The Ketcham Family Grace Liao David and Mary MacMillin Jeffrey and Jennifer McDonnell Thearon and Vanette McKinney Ellen Danforth O’Bannon Richard and Jane Owens Amanda and Alex Perez The Pillsbury Foundation Keith and Virginia Smith Family Foundation Jeff and Ellen Steinwachs Barbara J. Washburn Patrick and Kim West Emily Willingham

($500+)

Anonymous James Abshagen Emily Armstrong and Family Michael Arnold and Family Jay O. Aronson and Family Tom and Hunter Bailey Daniel Bakal and Michelle Acker Laura and Larry Mason The Bautista Family The Daniel & Henry Company Kim and Jim McCord Cyrus and Erika Beer Glenn and Susan Davis Rev. Amy E. and Brian McCreath The Bendersky Family George Deuble Foundation Robert and Jennifer McCurdy Carla Bettano and Laurie Glassman The Eaglesham Family H. Smith McGehee Mary Jane and Robert Bolle Sylvia Ellis Kip and Carol McGilliard Craig and Jennifer Bond Catherine Erickson and Chris Young Clara McLeod The Bonn Family Mary Erickson The Menna Family The Bordon Family The Fifield-Philippides Family Dean and Pat Messinger Katherine Brokaw Pepe and Terry Finn Daniel and Anne Miller Susan Buckley Kelly and Brian Gallagher Michael and Lynn Mulcahy Rochelle and Louis Cain Shawna, Tony, Sarah, and Lily Gehres William Murphy and Claire Corcoran The Campos Family Edman and Virginia Gray Michael and Dianne O’Brien Eric and Jen Chinburg Kenneth and Bonnie Hargreaves James Oetting Gerard Oprins and Robert and Sally Harrison Cindy Christensen Tom Oxtoby and Shirley John Hecker and Family Fleming-Oxtoby Peter and Laura Danielsen Shawn Herron and Phuoc Le Anne and Jack Palomaki Katherine Delaney and Daniel Beard Kevin and Jana Hunt 17

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 to December 31, 2020 The Duncan Family Bill and Bethany Frick The Gloor Family Karen Bell Gwidt and Jesse Gwidt Carol Hardenbergh Amy Harvey and Jennifer Tucker Dr. and Mrs. R. Mark Hatfield Katherine Hein Karen Hicks and Family Michelle Hirsch Margot Hoerner and Family Nancy Hoerner Anne Hughes and Stan Livingston

Dr. Jennifer Hull Stacy and Neill Jakobe The Kaplan Family Dennis and Sharon Karr William and Amanda Kuhnert Ava Lancaster James Langan Keith and Monique Lawton Jeffrey and Chris Libson The Link Family Nancy Schiffman Longo and Family The Low Family Martha D. MacMillin Bruce Marshall Judith Jobbitt and Thomas Marshall Byron and Margaret Martin The McCarthy Family Ben, Peter, Meg, and Jay McDermott Doug and Kelly McHoney Susan H. McLeod Jodi Melichar and Family Laurie Miller and Steve Nichols Carol Davis Moakley and Brien Moakley The Murphy Family Kaz Naganuma and Isabel Carreras

Meg Schuster Nystrom Erin and Shannon O’Brien Adaeze and Emeka Onuoha Sarah Forbes Orwig Margaret Oxtoby Jeff Prince and Beth Firmin Jeffrey Ralson and Rebecca Rokos Laura and James Redmond Sharron and Daniel Sanborn John Santelli and Jennifer Hirsch The Saudek Family The Schindler Family Brian and Sara Schneidewind

Justin Traxler and Regina Wu Leigh and Ellen Turner Jean Van Buskirk Susan Venn Robert and Nancy Early Wagoner Michael and Donna Warren Jane Vahle Weingartner Dickson and Ann Whitney Astrid Wielens and Bridget Stearns Pamela Wise Cynthia Meiners and James Wright

PATHFINDERS CIRCLE ($250+)

Anonymous Martha Allard Carolyn and Barry Anderson Mark G. Arnold and Kathryn M. Koch James Arthur Annette Augsburger Clarence C. Barksdale The Biery-Stinson Family The Bliss Family Kregg and Rochelle Bodily Karen Potter Bohuski and Family The Bradley-Ferrall Family Tucker Branham Jane Brock-Wilson Stephanie Brock-Wilson Richard H. Burst Charles W. Cammack III Amy Campbell Susan Chandler Sarah and Robert Chesney

Rebecca Seidel-Nini and Greg Nini Carolyn A. Sharp Amy Skalinder and Erin Mays Linda Slagell Edith and Charles Spencer The Steliga Family: Matt, Kelly, Allie, and Claire

Dan and Judy Straka Shawn and Sarah Swartzentruber Ramon Tabtiang and Joanna Gilbert Michael Tchou

John and Kay Clark Meredith Lee-Clark Kelley Mahar and Peter Claybaker Stew and Emilie Collins

Daniel Cook Janet Cook and Family Halie and Scott Corning Paul Craun and Family Gray Danforth Marisa and Kate de la Garza The Desai Family Marilyn Detrich Allison and Mark DeVuyst Mark Ebell and Laura Bierema Susan Eberhard Frances Ekern Sue Essen Carolyn A. Faber The Foerster Family Mary K. France The Frohlichstein Family John Gibson and Smita Lahiri Carolyn Goldstein and Jon Haber Douglas and Jane Goodrich Robert Graham Caroline Green Robert and Cynthia Grimm Dolores and Robert Harris Carolyn Hauser Patrick Hayes Barbara Henrichs Allison and Brian Herriott Gail Hindle Mimi S. Homes The Humphrey Family Pheobe Huth Mary Clare Jakes Keith Johnson JP Morgan Chase

Marc Kase Elizabeth J. Kelly Amy and Tim Knauff

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 to December 31, 2020 Edward and Cameron Lanphier Katie and Joe LeGrand Nicholas and Diane Litton Elizabeth Lupfer Carol Maus and Family The Maxeiner Family Jim and Heather Mock Lindsay and Doug Morton

Jim Motz and Ames Hwang Thomas Murphy and Richard Clark Wylie Nash and John Holzach Susan Nibeck and Family Patrick O’Hagin and Family Annie and Todd Oliverio Karen and Anthony O’Reilly Carrie and Scott Palmer Julie Palomaki Ginger and Michael Partee Dr. Richard and Ethel Phillips Robert and Michelle Pike The Kaptur Puma Family Karen Reimer Marian Reineke Charles Rimmer Chloé Risto and Kevin Byerley The Rolle Family Kim and David Scartelli Sarah Shepherd-Browning and Andrew Browning Alisa Shin The Skidmore Family

Phil and Kathy Baggett David Balster The Barna Family Karen and David Baratz Kristine Barr William Bartnett Rev. A. Otto Baumann, II Sara and Jose Bazan Douglas and Karen Beattie Katie and Albie Bell and Family Robin Bell The Bennett Family Terri Bennett Thomas Blanke J. Wray and Elizabeth Blattner The Bodenbender Family Kerrie Boodt Steven Borgelt Lisa and Barry Boucher Suzanne Boxer and Colin Murphy Henry W. Boyd III Lynn Bradley Vincent C. Bresch Barbara Brousal-Glaser and Lorenz Glaser Mr. William T. Brown Russell Browne Dr. Robert Bruce Dr. Eric Buck and Mrs. Heather Buck Deborah and Derrick Buddemeyer Edward Burrow Naomi and Jack Butterfield Alan and Diane Campbell Isabel Carreras John and Kathryn Carson Nadine Chalmers Eric Chamberlain and Deborah Smiley The Chiappetta Family Rosalyn Chrenka, Ph.D. Maggie and Bruce Church Brooke Clarke David and Debra Clarke Holly Clayson Beverly R. Clift Emily Cline Linda Clute The Cobin Family Kenneth Collier Stephanie Collins and Reagan Furqueron Thomas and Nancy Collins Helen Comfort Michael Cook Hugh and Marybeth Coonrod

Monica Smith Thomas Spiegelhalter Susan Steiger Tebb Shannon and Johnny Tran Griffin Vogler and Michael Harter Stuart Walker Dan Warmbrodt and Cameron Garton

Robert and Margaret Watson Paul and Marianne Weichselbaum Linda and Nicholas Wenri Kate Wissman Julia Gerber Woodward Eric and Jackie Wright Holley Young Stacey Zapalac and Jeffrey Wixted Zemenick & Walker, Inc.

CHALLENGERS CIRCLE ($100+)

Anonymous Priscilla Abbott Madeline and Howell Adams Mark and Cindy Adams Cathy and Ron Akin The Alexander Family Nancy and Chris Allen Sally and Robert Anderson Kathy Wood Armstrong Ann Jones Austin and Family

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

Ed and Carol Costigan Tom Cowan Catherine E. Cox Jim Craig and Family Ross Ann Craig The Creighton Family Jay Crosson Rev. Beverly J. Crute, Ph.D. Marie Dalton-Meyer and Les Meyer Bruce and Linda Damstra Doris Darr Helen K. Davis Jacinda Davis and Kris Slava Mary Jane Davis Mary and Guy Day Kim Denney Richard and Mary Dee Denning Robert Denta Ayn Dietrich-Williams Laura and Jim Dille James and Mary Ann Donahoe Holly J. Dreger Buck Drew, DDS PA Jeffrey Drew Wayne H. Duckworth Audrey Durrua Elizabeth Early Charles and Patricia Ellingson Becky and Chris Enderle Jim and Catheryn Ensley Byron and Tiana Evans Angela Fabus and Scott Porter David and Beverly Farrell Matthew Feinberg and Erin Benay Scott and Gwen Ferrigno Frank L. Field Jr. The Fleck Family The Foerster Family Nate Folan Dan and Rita Forbush Richard and Barbara Fox Nancy and Donald Fraser Ralph and Colby Gaines Sandra and Matthew George Richard Giltner and Kristen Laakso Peter and Emily Glore Bill and Beth Godwin Rebecca and Brian Goldstein Larry and Nancy Goodlund Dave and Laura Grabowsky Tom Granneman Gratz Park Private Wealth Martin and Kim Greene Gregory and Heidi Gromek

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 to December 31, 2020 Anne Davis Grothe The Gude Family Audrey Mueller Hahn The Hall Family Dawn Hammersley M. Kay Hannah Becky and Peter Hanrahan Kathryn Mellis Harper The Harris Family Betsy Hawkins-Chernof and David Chernof Tim and Megan Hayman Priscilla and James Heininger The Henry Family Carissa and Douglas Hensley Betsy and Tim Hernquist Shane Hinde Sarah K. Hindle Susan and Allan Hinton Al Hodgdon and Family Jennifer Hoekel Margaret Hoerner Robert and Elizabeth Hoffman Sandra Holcombe Shirley Ann Holt Hale and Family John and Peggy Hooper Deborah Hoover and Malcolm McPherson Gina and Eric Howden Elizabeth Howland and Adrian Doran J. Peter and Lucy Howland Carolyn Hubenak Carrie Kauffman Huffman Susan Melson Huffman Helaine Hunscher Susan and Thomas Hurd Robert and Ginny Istnick Linda Meyer Jackmond Liz and Dan Jackson

Heidi Frielingsdorf Johnson The Johnson Family Jennifer Johnsrud and Amy Carlson Maryhelen Jones Robert and Rebecca Joy Bettina Getz and William Judge Patricia Jurgens Nancy and Charles Kaelber Carl and Marybeth Kantner Wendy Kares and Ken Rumelt The Kecskemeti Family Aleta Keel Kevin and Carrie Kennedy Kathryn and Greg King C. Benjamin and Sondra Kirby Susan Kirkland Robert Kevin Klebe Kevin Klockenga Mr. Jeffrey B. Knudson Chandler and Elysian Koglmeier Stephen Kohlbry Sara Kopacz Lisa Kralina Erin and Jim Krewet The Krigbaum Family Reid B. Ladenson Scott Laidlaw and Carrie Cuthbert Dom Lambek Peter and Erin Lane Martha Larson Mariann Laue Baker Laura LeDuc The Lee Family Glenn and Laura Leisey Diane Lim Jane Ward Lindberg and Family Catherine Lindell Jill and Les Linder Katherine Lindholm and Neil Lewis John and Cecelia Lockner

Bridget and Josh Lohrius Jim and Jennifer Loi Nathalie and Terence Lonsdale Denise Loper Lois Maag Chip MacLeod The Mahaffey Family Mark and Meg Mannion Sara Marblestone and Sheri Tracey Andy and Nancy Marr Marianna and Byron Martin Kelly and Stephan Masoncup Greg Matta and Lois Kelly Timoli and Martin Matthews

Stacy and David Mondrus William and Martha Monroe Rebecca and Bruce Montgomery Eric Moore and Julia Wolfe The Moore Family William R. Morris Ann and Kurt Mueller Michael and Joan Mullen Barbara and Edwin Mumford Steve and Elizabeth Murrill Jenny and Suresh Nayak Jennifer and Noah Nelson Judith K. Nettles Martha Neubauer

David and Christina McCallum Susan McColl Carolyn McCollum John and Christine McGrath Sue McKinney William McNulty and Negar Ahkami Robert E. Meagher Beverly Cosner Miller Laurie Miller Scott and Jane Molden

Meredith Nierman Barry and Elaine Nocks Sheila Nollen The Ollinger Family Sverre and Sara Olsen Amy Opatz Tina O’Toole The Ottman Family Hannah Patterson William and Debra Patterson Nancy Paysinger W. Robert Pearson Stuart and Debbie Pettitt Jennifer Pett-Ridge and Logan Hennessy Julie C. Pett-Ridge Steven and Frances Piesbergen Joseph and Karen Plunkett Mary Sue Pollitt Catherine Skinner Powell Jan Queal Ashley and Jeffrey Quicksilver Diane Rabe Helen and James Randels The Reck Family

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 to December 31, 2020 Jane Reynolds Keith and Chris Rickert Don and Deborah Riley Nooshi and Andrew Robertson Meredith and Justin Sanders Mary Dee and Ed Schmidt Ronald and Jane Scholl Susan Schon Karl Schults Kathleen Schweich Bob and Sarah Scoville Vicki Pittman Scruggs Jennifer Sebolt The Serrano Family Scott and Alice Seyfried The Shepherd Foundation Linda S. Shirk The Shorney Family Bruce Shuman Janet Christy Silvester and Terry Silvester Amy and Kevin Simmons Douglas and Coleen Smith Patricia Smock Michelle and Tony Snyder Richard Soaper Jane Soros Laura Spence The Spero Family Chris and Lisa Spiek Bridget Stack Kathleen and Alex Steele Thomas “Doc Wheels” Steen and Carol Cook Julie and Donn Stengele Liesel and Mason Stevens Bret Stewart Paul Stokstad and Paula Winke William and Margaret Stude Sarah and Roy Stumpf Luella Swisher The Terry Family Bets and Chris Thomas Geraldine J. Thompson Michelle Thompson Molly Timmers The Townsend Family Claudia Trautmann and Theodore Christner Katherine Truter Kelly and Cleveland Tyson Mark and Mary Unangst Fred Vahle The Vanier Family Billy Van Cleve

Georgia Van Cleve Colwell Sarah “Piper” Van Cleve Norma Jean Vavra Klein Betty Vicente and Family Sarah A. Wagoner Thomas and Lynn Wahle Roben and Melissa Walker

DARERS CIRCLE

John and Vicki Waller Donald E. Ward Mark and Marta Ward Barbara and David Warmbrodt Chad and Amber Warner Dr. and Mrs. Donald L. Weaver Katherine Weih Catherine Weiss Chris Wellens and Becky McCluskey Bill Westhafer Carol Crain White and Family Frank Whitington James Williams Wendell and Mary Williams Nancy and William Wittkamp Janelle and Andrew Wood The Yaney Family James Yemm Shirley Nesbitt Young Kelly and Nick Zigaitis

Jeffrey and Ann Bach Judy and Barry Baker The Ball Family Melanie Bates Doreen and Billy Beaudette Meg Bergen Lance Bernhardt Chelsea Bernthal Jan Conversano and James Besl William and Jill Beute Brian Bishop Christy Bland Sarah Bleeker Melissa Boyle and Jennifer Stenersen

($1+)

Anonymous Lauren Abrami Carol Alexander Susan Arnold Rebecca and Rejean Audet

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

Annie Bradley-Ferrall Cindy Brewbaker Ruth and John Britton Casey Brock-Wilson Emma Bryant Sandra Kemp Butler Sarah Caliendo John and June Carter The Charner-Laird Family The Childress Family Sara Coburn Bradley J. Collins Christi Anne Collins Beth E. Conkin and Bill Gallagher Madeleine Conroy Meghan and Dan Cousino Philip B. Curtis Sheina Curtis Susan R. Danielson Betty and Alvin DeWitt Barbara Ruhl DeYoung and Family Nancy S. Dickinson Sarah Ekern-Schumacher Alison and Tod Ewing Wendy Facteau Delaney Feighan Nancy Fenstemacher Evelyn Ramsdell Ferguson Julie Miller Figg Missy Foote and Family Carol and Loren Ford Robert and Sylvia Frank Carol Savery Frederick and William Frederick Joe and Ruth Freeman Christina and Jeremy Fuller The Gagnon Family Virginia B. Galle Rispah Gamble Schwering Joseph and Louise Gazzoli Liz Sargent Gearon

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 to December 31, 2020 Lindsay and Hunter Gordon David E. Gray Matthew Gray Louis Green Barbara and Stephen Griffith Janet Groat and Bryan Wyatt Eva Gruenberg David and Holly Gulick Thomsa E. Haas The Hampson Family Ingrid Aguirre Happoldt and Robert, Connor, and Diego Whitehill Rebecca Harberts Carolyn Metzger Harmon Veronica Johnson Harris Jennifer and Kenneth Harrop Gussy Haun Luke Haynes Judy Hayward Dale Hood Gwendolyn Hood and Family Roger Humphries II Gregory Hunt Lynn Ann Jones

Megan Lemaire Phyllis E. Lerud Max Leslie Jill Lewis Elizabeth Lilly Eileen Dressel Lischer Jeanne D. Lischer The Litwiller Family Jo and Kiau Loi Marcia Mackey Caterina Marconi Olivia Marshall Jay Todd Max Bonnie McAlister Martha McDonald Andrew McIver Kate McKinney Maddalena Katy McLaughlin Anna Meyer and Family Kelcie Meyer Steve Meyer Joseph and Kathryne Mitchell Lindsey Mogren Laura J. Mohr

Tara Karr Joy and Paul Kerkhoff Flora Kitzman Kelli Kline Dr. Natalie Knesek and Mr. Tim Knesek Randy and Laura Kniffen Judy R. Koehl Tracy and Joe Koss Ann and Lionel Kreamer Marnie Lanphier Karli Lawrence Karen Lehman

Ellen Hillman Moore Ellen and Timothy Moore Scott Moriearty and Family Mary Cooper Nelson Martha Neuman Bruce and Marcia Newton Kimberly and Sonny Novotny Ohio Concrete Resurfacing Carolyn Ohle and Todd Cooper Elizabeth Ohle Allison O’Malley Chris Owen

Isabella Pallotto Carol Paronis Dorothy Parsons Sarah L. Paugh Daniel Peterson Mrs. Joan Peterson Amanda Pfriem James Price Ann Pumphrey Sharlyn and Stephen Radcliffe Abby Rand REACH Learning Services Bruce and Page Reed Hannah M. Rees Dorothy Reimers Virginia Ashley Reynolds David and Nadine Richardson Dr. Betts Rivet Elizabeth Roghair Jim and Kim Rosborough Gary Ruggiero and Family Francisco Ruiz and Carolina Arango-Ruiz Kenny Rumsey Dr. Thomas and Carole Sawa Julia Yvonne Schenck Phillip and Mary Schenkenberg Tom Schneider Lesley Mellis Schuldt Robert and Doni Schumacker Nancy Schwartz Michael Selby Elinor Selkirk The Senno Family Manoochehr and Maryann Sharifi Bailey Sheats Billie Shelton

Patricia and William Simmons Shiloh Solomon Jenny Somerville Derek Sterling Penny Straka Sarah Suggs Pamela and Stanley Switlik Jeanne and Mitchell Tomlinson Karen Torpea Dr. Margaret E. Towner Jerome and Norine Trewyn Douglas Urquhart Barbara Van Buskirk and Marcelo de Jesus Page Waldo Jane Wallace Cinda Lou Walton Carmen Dressler Ward Jane G. Webster Nancy and Robert Weed Nellie Jane Whitton David and Mary Anna Wicker Nicholas Williams Louise Wilson Eunice Wong Robert and Pamela Wunder

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 to December 31, 2020 HONOR/MEMORIAL In Honor of three generations of Miniwanca campers: Carolyn Beimdiek, Karen Beimdiek Baratz, Amanda Baratz The Baratz Family In Honor of Katie and Albie Bell and Family Karen Bell Gwidt and Jesse Gwidt Carol Maus and Family Eric and Jackie Wright In Memory of Jean Booker Aleta Keel Santha Stall In Memory of Maxine Burch Bruce and Marcia Newton In Memory of Stanley R. Bushouse and In Honor of Kristen Bushouse Crandle, Wendy Bushouse VanStone, Steven Richard Bushouse, Karen Bushouse Grogan and Deborah Bushouse Thenen, and In Memory of Dr. Stanley Bushouse Judith Bushouse

Anna Kay Vorsteg and Vicki Boyd Cynthia Meiners and James Wright

In Memory of John Eyermann Louis Green

In Memory of Dr. William R. Harvey Brian Bishop John and Peggy Hooper Ann Pumphrey Linda Slagell Katherine Truter

In Honor of Suzanne Lily Ferrall Kate and Lorrie Bradley-Ferrall

In Honor of Eli Judge Bettina Getz and William Judge

In Memory of Carolyn Finch Ford John Benckenstein The East Family Alaine and Jackie Emens Carol Emens Kris Gaziano Mary Clare Jakes Ann and Lionel Kreamer Melinda Lindell Donald and Barbara Parrish David and Diana Ricks

In Memory of Roland P. Ladenson, Miniwanca Camp Physician 1964-1968 Reid B. Ladenson

Louise Wilson Zemenick & Walker, Inc. In Memory of Talia Ewing Alison and Tod Ewing

In Honor of Ada Deer Sarah Forbes Orwig In Honor of David Dietrich Randy and Laura Kniffen In Honor of John Drew Jeffrey Drew In Honor of Mark Drew Jeffrey Drew In Memory of Patricia Ann Drew Nancy and Chris Allen Robin Bell J. Wray and Elizabeth Blattner The Bliss Family The Childress Family Ed and Carol Costigan The Daniel & Henry Company

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

In Honor of Liz Marshall Robert and Rebecca Joy Meredith Nierman Anna Kay Vorsteg and Vicki Boyd In Honor of Lucia Marie Martin Miguel and Kirsten Martin In Memory of Jennifer Mason Laura and Larry Mason

In Honor of Kathy Cagle Marker Laura LeDuc

In Honor of Peter and Ben McDermott Jay and Meg McDermott

In Memory of Ruth Mary Picard Campbell Meg Campbell

In Memory of Dorothy Royal McDonald Martha McDonald

In Memory of Ed and Margaret Clark Pamela Wiser

In Honor of Thearon and Vanette McKinney, in celebration of Thearon’s birthday Sarah Forbes Orwig

In Memory of Harriet Hart Collier Sandra Kemp Butler Bill and Beth Godwin Gratz Park Private Wealth Steamboat Springs High School In Memory of Betty Crispen Billie Shelton In Memory of William H. Danforth, MD Anonymous Kay and Harvey Bell Gray Danforth John Drew Karen Lehman Liz Marshall Laurie Miller Andy and Molly Mulcahy James Oetting Sarah Forbes Orwig Chloé Risto and Kevin Byerley A. Neil Sweeny and Family Kelly and Cleveland Tyson

In Memory of Lucinda Melichar Jodi Melichar and Family

Laura and Jim Dille James and Mary Ann Donahoe John Drew Mark Ebell and Laura Bierma Rispah Gamble Schwering David and Holly Gulick Carolyn Metzger Harmon Robert and Sally Harrison Judy Hayward The Klassen Family Stephen Kohlbry Mark and Meg Mannion Laurie Miller The Moore Family James Oetting Dorothy Reimers Scott and Alice Seyfried Richard Soaper Andrea and Peter Van Cleve Jane G. Webster

Marci and Tim Riggs Suzanne Runge The Staff & Board of the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau Eva Wailes Bob Whitman

In Honor of Von Dell Glaser Bruce and Marcia Newton In Honor of Alberta Louise Graham Robert Graham In Honor of David Edman Gray Edman and Virginia Gray In Honor of Karen Bell Gwidt and Jesse Gwidt and Family Eric and Jackie Wright In Memory of Nancy Blake Harvey Brian Bishop

In Honor of the Staff at Camp Merrowvista Susan Chandler In Memory of Minisino Richard and Barbara Fox In Honor of Erin Sauter Monolo Karen Torpea In Memory of Donald Morgan Janet G. Strube In Memory of Otha Mosby Bill Westhafer In Memory of Sipho Msipa The Low Family In Memory of Elizabeth Mulcahy Telthorst Dr. Dean Telthorst

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 to December 31, 2020 In Honor of Troy Murray, NLC Participant Ayn Dietrich-Williams In Memory of Jamie Nielsen Stephen Owens and Ann Owens In Honor of Erin O’Brien Dennis and Sharon Karr Tara Karr Michael and Dianne O’Brien In Memory of Marie Prange Oetting James Oetting In Memory of Ernie and Martha Ohle Carolyn Ohle and Todd Cooper Elizabeth Ohle In Memory of Dorothy Toren Orcutt Ruth Cleveland In Memory of Ricky Owens Richard and Jane Owens In Memory of Dr. Steven R. Meadows Anne and Jack Palomaki Julie Palomaki In Honor of Hannah Patterson Robert and Rebecca Joy In Honor of Margaux Patterson Ann Jones Austin and Family In Honor of Nancy Paysinger Susan Melson Huffman In Honor of Louise and Marion Pearson W. Robert Pearson In Honor of Ann Cameron Conley Phillips Allison Farnen In Honor of Hannah and Josh Puma Lisa and Scott Puma In Memory of Phillip Ranney Ann Jones Austin and Family In Honor of Katie Schindler, NLC 2021 Graduate Jon and Nancy Schindler In Honor of Isabella Schirripa Penny Straka In Memory of Steven M. Schrepper Billy Van Cleve In Honor of Chip Seidel Kristine Barr

In Memory of Shirley Shearman The Senno Family

FACEBOOK FUNDRAISERS We would like to thank the following Founder Friends who hosted Facebook Fundraisers to raise money for AYF in 2020. Kathryn Virginia Coleman Blake Ives Molly Mulcahy Seth Murdoch Erin Karr O’Brien Shannon O’Toole Nancy Solon Janet G. Strube Griffin Vogler

In Honor of Nancy Solon’s birthday Liz and Dan Jackson In Honor of Julie Stengele Claudia Trautmann and Theodore Christner In Memory of Lewis B. Stuart III The Ketcham Family In Honor of Susan, Vanette, Carolyn, Rachel, Ava, and Rhonda Nancy Paysinger In Memory of Jack C. Swisher Luella Swisher

We would like to thank the following Founder Friends who donated to Facebook Fundraisers to raise money for AYF in 2020. Anonymous Linda Ahles Laura Andrews Patricia Baker Michael Boland Ann Boren Lisa Boucher Chandlee Bryan Todd Buss Paige Caroleen Alicia Chandler Bridget Clanton Abigail Cleveland Kathryn Coleman Chris Collins Tamara Conn Sarah Dreyer-Oren Courtney Dunn Robin Ervolina Ales Peter Forder Tracy Granneman Kevin Grogan Lisa Guy Karen Bell Gwidt Sarah Schiavone Hampson Shawn Herron Shane Hinde Maggie Holsten Kelly Homman Laurie Humphrey Blake Ives Brad Ives Kelsey Jackson Dan Kemock Anne Klene Catherine Klene

In Honor of Adam and Jack Thomas Kate Wissman In Memory of Ryan Thomas Gray Danforth Bets and Chris Thomas Kate Wissman In Honor of the Ticaga Class of 1959 Marilyn Ripley Scheerbaum In Honor of Amrine Tomlinson-Tunick Jeanne and Mitchell Tomlinson In Honor of the Class of Wao Ki Hi Patrick Hayes In Memory of Julian Turner Nancy Fenstemacher In Honor of Andrea Van Cleve Joseph and Louise Gazzoli Georgia Van Cleve Colwell In Honor of Dansby Vogler, Dishwasher Extraordinaire at Camp Miniwanca Lisa and Tim Clark In Memory of Kathleen T. Walker Stuart Walker In Honor of Dan Warmbrodt Barbara and David Warmbrodt In Memory of Edith Wittler Brock Eileen Dressel Lischer In Memory of E. Joann “Jolly” Wollermann Carolyn A. Faber Nancy Paysinger Janet G. Strube

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

Jan Kohler Josh Kramer Mary Leach Lynn Maki Liz Marshall Laura Mason Kate Maus-Bell Debbie McDonald Vanette McKinney Molly Mulcahy Jim Myers Carolyn Norath Kimberly Novotny Dianne O’Brien Erin Karr O’Brien Robert O’Toole Ryan O’Toole Ryan Owings Beth Perkins Marge Ride Peterson Lori Petrie Alex Potts Karen Reimer Ashley Rhoco Jennifer Rhodes Abby Rowden Kim Scartelli Lisa Scartelli Robert Schumacker Molly Schwarz Brian Shapiro Victoria Sherman Marian Smith Muriel Smith PJ Smith Margaret Speer Chris Spiek Jeff Sprinkle Bridget Stack Charlotte Stairs Janet G. Strube Bill Tucker Trevor Uhl Judith Callen Van Buskirk Connie VanSchelven Beth Vivio Dansby Vogler Griffin Vogler Jack Vorsteg Tom Vuozzo Nancy White Martin Ollie Williamson Holley Young

2022 SAVE THE DATE

As we build back from the pandemic, the AYF looks forward to serving more youth in 2022 than in 2021. Each site will add additional sessions, offering more opportunities to experience the mission of best self and balanced living. Registration for the 2022 season will take place in late 2021. Visit ayf.com for the most current dates, rates, and program offerings.

NLC

MINIWANCA

MERROWVISTA

National Leadership Conference

Summer Camp

Session A

June 11 – June 18

June 26 – July 8

July 3 – July 22

Summer Camp

Session B

July 10 – July 29

July 24 – August 12

Details regarding adult programming, including Alumni and Family Weekend and Summer Seminars for Women, will be announced in early 2022. As we continue to navigate evolving pandemic conditions, we will share testing, masking, and vaccination protocols for staff, campers, and participants as they develop. We appreciate your understanding as we continue to prioritize the health of our camp communities next year.

NOW HIRING! The AYF is seeking individuals for summer 2022 who believe in our mission and the core values of best self, balanced living, safety, inclusivity, and stewardship. Summer camp jobs offer staff members more than just a paycheck – they offer you the experience of a lifetime. Full-time and seasonal staff positions are available. Visit ayf.com/jobs for more information and to apply.

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID ST. LOUIS, MO PERMIT NO. 5283

American Youth Foundation ayf.com Merrowvista

Advancement

Miniwanca

147 Canaan Rd.

6357 Clayton Rd.

8845 W. Garfield Rd.

Ctr. Tuftonboro, NH 03816

St. Louis, MO 63117

Shelby, MI 49455

603-539-6607

314-719-4343

231-861-2262

Founder Fire 2021

Articles inside

Remembering Our Founder Family

Rekindling Community

Creating Conversation and Change

Enkindled Spirits

Meet DD Danforth-Burlin

Golfing for Good

NLC Finds Closer Connection

A Year of Renovation

Letter from the President