Founder Fire 2025

2025

C E L E B R AT I N G O U R C E N T E N N I A L

INSIDE A Letter from the President.. ................ 1 Camp of Golden Splendor.................... 2 On the Loose............................................ 4 Way Down in our Founder Hearts.. ... 6 Give Youth Their Chance...................... 8 AYF Through the Ages......................... 12 Save the Date 2026............................... 15 Reflecting on a Century of Impact. . ................................ 16 An Assembly for the Next Generation.. ............................ 17 Remembering Our Founder Family.............................. 18 Campaign Highlights........................... 20 Fuel the Fire, Fund the Future Campaign Donors.................................. 21 Board Highlights................................... 24 Honor Roll.. .............................................. 25

President Liz Marshall with former Miniwanca Girls Camp Director – and her mother – Suzy Marshall LaPine.

A Letter from the President Dear Founder Friends, This year has been unlike any other in the life of the American Youth Foundation. A century after our founding in 1925, we gathered to celebrate across the country. From homecomings on the shores of Lake Michigan and the hillsides of New Hampshire to the Checkerboard Gala in St. Louis and birthday parties nationwide, together, we honored our past and renewed the vision that remains at the heart of our work.

As I reflect on this milestone year, I am inspired by the thousands of participants, staff, alumni, and supporters who are writing the next chapter of our AYF story. The centennial reminds us that this movement has always been about people – young and old, past and present – coming together to create a better future.

Connecting with so many alumni has been a highlight of my year. Recently, I had the joy of interviewing a remarkable woman who, like AYF, turned 100 this year. Marg Towner’s life spans the entire history of the AYF: learning directly from the founders as a young camper in the 1930s, documenting Miniwanca’s early years as camp photographer, breaking barriers as the first woman ordained in the Presbyterian Church USA, and continuing to champion justice, inclusion, and the four-fold philosophy that has guided her life. Her story, like so many others, illuminates the spark camp ignites that can fuel a lifetime of purpose, service, and courage.

Sharing time with her affirmed for me how today’s campers walk the same path of discovery she began nearly a century ago, and how the same spirit that inspired our founders continues to guide us today. That connection between past and present became especially clear to me this year as I revisited the origins of our founding and the ideas that shaped this movement from the very beginning.

At the Checkerboard Gala, I shared what I learned about the remarkable focus on youth at our core.

Our founders believed deeply in a simple yet powerful idea: Give youth their chance. In the pages that follow, you can read the full text of the speech and rediscover, as I did, how that early vision continues to be to the foundation of our mission today.

Here at the close of our 100th year, I invite you to continue this journey with us. Share the AYF’s story, encourage a young person to come to camp, consider serving on staff, and invest in the future of these programs. Every action you take fuels our mission and ensures the next century of AYF will be as bold and transformative as the first.

Thank you for adventuring with us into the next 100 years.

With gratitude, Liz Marshall

President and CEO, American Youth Foundation

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CAMP OF GOLDEN SPLENDOR

Nearly 400 people returned to the

sand dunes and lakeshores of Miniwanca for a joyful Homecoming Weekend and Girls Camp Reunion.

Vice President of Advancement Sandra George was thrilled to see so many people from across the country – and around the world – return to celebrate a place that had such an impact on their lives.

“We had people in their 80s connecting with kids who just participated in summer camp this year. It was magical to see so many generations bonding over shared experiences in this timeless place.”

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ON THE LOOSE

More than 150 people made the trip up the winding mountain roads to Merrowvista for Homecoming in September.

Founder Friends reconnected on the Farmhouse porch, along the cool waters of Dan Hole Pond, and atop the grassy expanse of the A-field, sharing their favorite memories of Merrowvista days gone by.

“It’s been several decades since some people were at Merrowvista,” said Kris Light, Vice President of Communications and Impact. “It’s inspiring to have so many generations with such strong connections to camp rekindling their spark.”

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Way Down in our

The American Youth Foundation capped its year of centennial celebrations with a day of community, joyful reunions, and Founder Hearts in St. Louis.

A stormy Saturday morning couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm at the BBQ Birthday Party, where more than 100 people swapped AYF stories over barbecue and birthday cake.

That night, 150 people gathered at The Trolley Room in Forest Park for the Checkerboard Gala, a night of celebration, fundraising, and honoring AYF legends. Attendees were encouraged to dress in “creative checkerboard attire,” and they did not disappoint.

Former Missouri Congressman Dick Gephardt (pictured above), who served as honorary centennial campaign co-chair, shared how the AYF forever changed his life and encouraged guests to keep this transformative organization strong for the next 100 years.

It was also a night for recognizing a woman who dedicated much of her life to the AYF. Liz Marshall presented the Daring Visionary Award to former president Anna Kay Vorsteg (pictured left) for her 35 years of service to the organization.

The program concluded with a beloved AYF tradition as almost everyone leapt up to encircle the room, link arms, and sing “Founder Hearts.” A year’s worth of centennial joy was evident in that moment as Founder Friends from across the country united in a moment that bridged the decades.

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r Founder Hearts

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GIVE YOUTH THEIR CHANCE At the Centennial Checkerboard Gala in St. Louis, President and CEO Liz Marshall reflected on a century of daring youth to discover their best and on the enduring relevance of that mission today.

Her remarks proclaimed the constant at the heart of the American Youth Foundation for the past 100 years: a steadfast belief in the potential of young people to lead with courage.

The pages that follow share her remarks from that evening in full.

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“As I traveled the country this year and met with so many of you, I heard the same question again and again:

This work is so powerful.

How can I help?”

And with this change also came a society that was full of judgement.

There was much clutching of the pearls about what these “youth” were getting into: speakeasies, dressing as flappers, partaking of the beverages. Almost as soon as adolescence became a thing, it was labeled a problem.

It all clicked for me when I saw the very first AYF brochure from 1925 with its stark question printed on the cover: “Is youth purposeless, excitement-crazy, devoid of individuality, superficial, and unreliable?

Or does youth only need its chance?”

Into this moment stepped our founders, visionaries who believed young people were not problems to fix but potential to be unlocked.

They built Miniwanca and Merrowvista, places where young people could come together to discover that potential within and be inspired by their power to shape their world.

Think of the courage of that vision. In an America hurtling into modernity, our founders chose to invest in the rising generation.

Good evening, Founder Friends.

What an extraordinary sight to be gathered together in this centennial year of the American Youth Foundation. Thank you for being here, for believing in the mission, and for taking your place in the Founder Family.

They knew the strength of the future depended not on what we handed down, but on what we learned from the young.

That belief is our throughline. For 100 years, the AYF has answered the call to give youth their chance – to be seen for who they are and who they can become, to find their voice and to lead with courage.

This moment is 100 years in the making. As we prepared for this milestone, I found myself looking to our beginnings, examining the bold vision of our founders, and asking what drove them to believe so deeply in young people.

This summer, our centennial summer, I saw that legacy alive every day: campers on the dunes cheering in friendly competition; Merrowvista teens building together, literally constructing a new woodshop; Four Trails participants striding back from the wilderness stronger than before; teens at National Leadership Conference speaking their truth and growing through their Quests.

This year’s graduating class of NLC, with the remarkably fitting class name Focus Forward Lasting Legacy, took such pride in being the leaders of our 100th year. At our adult programs and reunions, youth of all ages opened to new growth and refreshed their best selves.

What I discovered stopped me in my tracks: The 1920s could be describing our world right now.

It was a time of great social change and unrest, with new technologies appearing: cars and factories suddenly reshaping everyday life. Teenagers were leaving the farms, heading to cities to work, going to college, living alongside other young people for the first time. For the first time, the very idea of “adolescence” emerged.

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Everywhere I looked, it was clear: This is what it means to give youth their chance.

Tonight is both a time for gratitude and an invitation. Our founders laid the groundwork strong enough to last 100 years. But our work is not done. The challenges our youth face today makes our mission more vital than ever.

And I thought, too, how rare and precious that chance is.

Not every young person is believed in. Not every young person has the opportunity to gather and look inward to find their spark or be surrounded by mentors who trust that it is there.

As I traveled the country this year and met with so many of you, I heard the same question again and again: “This work is so powerful.

How can I help?”

That is why our mission matters – because when we invest in youth, we shape what comes next.

So many of you have already helped. Our centennial campaign came together around the goal of raising $4 million by the end of this year.

Thanks to the generosity of this community, we passed that goal six months early. Many of the people who made that happen are in this room tonight. I’d ask us all to take a moment to acknowledge their part in this accomplishment.

Across our nation, the need for positive change is everywhere. We’re living in a time of deep polarization and fear. Our shared values and civic institutions are under real strain.

And yet, at our camps, something powerful is happening. Young people from all walks of life come together, meeting people they’d never encounter back home. They learn to listen, to lead, and to bridge divides. They grow in body, mind, and spirit, strengthening all four folds of their being. Most importantly, they discover their agency, their ability to create a world grounded in caring, inclusion, belonging, and respect for all.

Our campaign was intended to launch us boldly into our second century, and the more successful the effort, the bigger the boost we get in our effort to serve these kids. We will need your help to keep investing in this work and building our capacity in the seasons to come.

Beyond philanthropy, you can help more young people find their way to Miniwanca and Merrowvista. Tell a neighbor about camp, spread the word about these remarkable communities. Where you have connections with organizations serving youth, spread the word about AYF programs. The Founder network is vast, and our potential to grow is formidable if we are all recruiting new campers and participants.

That kind of leadership has never been more needed than it is today.

You can help us identify the young adults who serve as seasonal staff, those mentors and role models who are looking to do good work in this world and who believe, like we do, in the vast potential of young people.

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You are welcome to return to site yourself to volunteer or be an adult participant. We know, as the founders did, and as our history would show, that these experiences are all the richer, and the participants better served when they are surrounded by multigenerational communities of adults.

I invite you to join your local Regional Action Network. All over the country alumni of Miniwanca and Merrowvista have been gathering in their own communities to celebrate their experiences, make new connections and champion the ongoing work of AYF. It is a reminder in action that the mission extends well beyond the property limits of our sites.

And in all these ways, I hope you hear the clear ask to just keep telling our story. Your support, your very participation in this growing community, keeps the flame burning strong. Every gift, every camper you send, every story you tell – it all extends the legacy of the AYF. And for that I could not be more grateful, and hopeful, to be in this with all of you.

So as we celebrate this centennial, let’s commit again to give youth their chance – to gather them around the campfire, send them down the trail, surround them with community, and remind them of their best selves.

A hundred years from now, may another generation gather and say, “They believed in us. They gave us our chance.”

Thank you for carrying this torch into AYF’s next century.

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1925

1925

1935

1945

1955

AYF THROUGH

The American Youth Foundation hosts its first Older Girls and Older Boys conferences at Miniwanca and Merrowvista.

1942

1931

The pressures of WWII close Merrowvista due to lack of supplies. Miniwanca campers supplement the camp’s food supply by planting a garden and raising pigs. Older Girls and Older Boys programs recommence at Merrowvista in 1950.

William H. Danforth publishes “I Dare You!” sharing the four-fold way of life. The I Dare You Award is established in 1941.

1960

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A fire destroys 20 cabins at Miniwanca Younger Girls Camp. No one is injured, and volunteers rally and rebuild the cabins in just four days.

1965

1975

1985

1995

H THE AGES The AYF expands facilities at both sites to support year-round community and school programs.

1970

1993

Merrowvista launches the Four Trails program, the first co-ed AYF program.

1985 A new strategic plan lays the foundation for the AYF today, prioritizing fiscal responsibility, community partnerships, and focusing on diversity and inclusion of all faith traditions.

The National Leadership Conference (formerly Older Boys and Older Girls camp) becomes co-ed with 453 first-year participants.

1982

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2005

2015

2025

2025

2010

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The AYF rings in its centennial, celebrating 100 transformational years.

The AYF serves more than 7,000 participants, the most in its history.

2020 In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the AYF cancels all in-person programs for the first time. More than 200 people join the free virtual program, Invincible Summer.

In-person programs return in 2021.

Scan to explore more AYF history online!

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SAVE THE DATE

2026

Register online now for 2026 summer programs!

We will also host the Donald Danforth Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday, May 4, Volunteer Weekends in the spring, and adult and family programs in the summer and fall, including Summer Seminars for Women, Spark retreats, family camps, and more.

NLC

MW

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NATIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

MINIWANCA

MERROWVISTA

Summer Camp

Summer Camp

1st and 2nd Year Participants June 13 to June 20 3rd and 4th Year Participants June 12 to June 20

Session A

Session A ONE WEEK: June 28 to July 4 TWO WEEKS: July 5 to July 17 THREE WEEKS: June 28 to July 17

THREE WEEKS: June 28 to July 17

Summer Camp

Summer Camp

Session B ONE WEEK: July 19 to July 25 TWO WEEKS: July 26 to August 7 THREE WEEKS: July 19 to August 7

Session B ONE WEEK: July 19 to July 25 TWO WEEKS: July 26 to August 7 THREE WEEKS: July 19 to August 7

ONE WEEK: June 28 to July 4 TWO WEEKS: July 5 to July 17

Scan the QR code below or go to bit.ly/AYFEmail to receive program updates and registration information straight to your inbox!

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Reflecting on a Century of Impact At 100 years old, the Rev. Dr. Margaret Towner’s life has spanned the entire existence of the American Youth Foundation.

Marg’s remarkable journey – from early lessons with the founders to becoming a groundbreaking minister – mirrors the AYF’s own century of developing courageous leaders who impact the wider world.

“I was talking to him about thinking of going into the ministry, and he said he encouraged me very much to do so, but he said, ‘Margaret, I cannot let you come to my seminary, because we do not accept women.’”

Early Days on the Dunes Marg’s earliest memories of Miniwanca are when her parents served on the faculty of the first camp conferences in the mid-1920s. Those formative summers brought her into direct contact with AYF’s visionary founders: Richard A. Waite, John L. Alexander, William H. Danforth, and Preston G. Orwig. “Having known all of them and grown up with them for many years, I think that was quite an influence,” she said.

She was undaunted. Marg went on to become the first woman ordained in the Presbyterian Church USA, a groundbreaking achievement built on her confidence in following her own path.

Witnessing Change and Championing Inclusion Marg credits Miniwanca with expanding her horizons. It was the first place where she was part of a diverse community from different racial backgrounds, and these experiences shaped her lifelong commitment to justice. She’s pleased with how AYF has evolved.

“I’m glad to see the way by which Miniwanca has changed,” she said.

“I’m interested to see that Miniwanca is branching out more in outreach and service with the campers.”

Marg’s experience was also shaped by her mother, Dorothy Towner, affectionately known as “Bird Lady” at Miniwanca. An expert in ornithology, Dorothy would rise early to lead nature expeditions along Stony Creek.

As she grew, Marg became camp photographer, working from a darkroom underneath the nurses’ cottage. One memorable afternoon, Danforth interrupted her photography class with characteristic enthusiasm. “Marg, I want you to come with me,” she recalled him saying.

When asked what advice she would give to young people today, Marg’s response was powerful. “What comes to my mind is the title of Danforth’s book, ‘I Dare You.’ I dare you to be involved in your communities and in your lives, mentally, physically, spiritually, and religiously, which means you would speak out against discrimination.”

She protested that she was busy with her class, but he insisted: “They can take care of themselves. Come on! I want you to take some pictures.” That impromptu session took them to a friend’s cherry orchard near Little Point Sable, where Marg captured images that Danforth treasured.

At 100, she continues this approach. “Right now, I’m involved in trying to write letters to the editor against the whole business of discrimination and violence,” she said, and to encourage a return to the Christian ideals of her youth: inclusion and belonging.

Her photographs became part of the AYF’s historical record. One photograph of girls around a campfire graced the cover of American Camping Magazine.

As AYF moves into its second century, Marg’s message is clear.

“Just keep it going.” She hopes the organization will continue to emphasize inclusiveness and authentic love of neighbor.

Shaping a Life’s Calling Miniwanca and the AYF shaped Marg’s life. “The philosophy of mental, physical, social, and religious – that’s just ingrained in me and everything I do,” she said. “It’s encouraging people to do the best they can to excel.”

Marg felt an early calling toward spirituality. A conversation atop the steps of the Council Circle with a mentor, Barney Blakemore, was a pivotal moment.

“Be brave and courageous to act on our values from our heart and connection to the divine,” she said.

Through her century of life, Marg Towner has embodied everything the AYF aspires to develop in young people – a life lived at “my own self, at my very best, all the time.”

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AN ASSEMBLY FOR THE

GENERATION

FOR NEARLY A CENTURY,

young people at Miniwanca have showcased their talents on the After years of observation, the AYF faced the difficult decision of outdoor Assembly stage in West Camp. Each performance – a song, whether to reinforce, rebuild, or completely replace the Assembly. a dance, a silly cabin skit – is met with resounding cheers from the In 2022, the building was carefully deconstructed. Historic elements, audience watching from the stone amphitheater seating. On raucous including the fireplace and mill stone, were preserved for reuse. nights, you can hear the thunderous cheers and standing Os all the “It was a difficult decision to take down the original Assembly, but we way in Graceland. knew it was the safest thing for our community,” Mulcahy said. “We “From its earliest days in 1926, the Assembly has always been a central always knew we were going to replace the building, and we’re excited meeting point for the Miniwanca community,” said Vice President to finally begin construction on a new Assembly at Miniwanca.” of Infrastructure Andy Mulcahy. “Even when we had to take down HDJ Architects and Engineers of Grand Rapids, Michigan designed a the original structure in 2022, the NLC community immediately new structure that honors the Assembly’s legacy and meets the created a temporary stage for campers to express themselves.” needs of camp today: a large central gathering space, a stage The Assembly was the first major building at Miniwanca. that opens to face the amphitheater, restrooms, and a Funded by J.R. Marcum, a friend of AYF founder storm shelter beneath that can house the entire camp Preston Orwig, the $4,000 structure was built into community. a wooded sand dune and quickly became the heart The project was initially led by architect Natalie Fox, of camp life. It hosted meetings, performances, an AYF alum and great-granddaughter of the and program activities for generations of campers.

Burmeister family, who were original constructors Inside, a natural stone hearth incorporated a mill of Assembly. AYF leadership broke ground on the stone from the 1850s Stony Creek grist mill, while new facility in August at the Miniwanca Homecoming, flags and banners from across the country and world and Mulcahy hopes construction will be complete for celebrated AYF’s diverse community. the 2026 season.

Over the decades, additions were made in 1930, 1936, 1938, “A project like this is never really about the building,” Mulcahy said. and 1953. But sitting on a sand footing left the building vulnerable.

“It’s about the shared experience of the community that gathers there.

By 2017, Mulcahy said the front wall was leaning 6 inches; two years This new Assembly will be a gathering place for generations of future later, it shifted even further. Extensive bracing allowed temporary campers to share those powerful AYF moments together.” stability, but the structure continued to move and was ultimately declared uninhabitable.

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Remembering Ann Bowyer Boren

Our Founder Family Mary MacMillin

Ann Bowyer Boren passed away Feb. 1 at 81. She was a Miniwanca Younger Girls camper from 1954 to 1960, an Older Girls camper in 1961, and a Younger Girls Leader from 1961 to 1963. From 1987 to 1998, Ann returned each summer for Mother’s Camp, where she ran the Craft House. She also gave her time and talents as a member of the AYF Cincinnati Advisory Committee. Ann’s siblings also shared deep AYF roots: her sister, Susan Lee Bowyer (deceased), was a Miniwanca YG camper in 1952 and graduated with the OG class of 1955, and her brother, John Bowyer (deceased), attended Miniwanca Younger Boys in 1964 and returned as a YB leader in 1968. Ann is survived by her husband, Dr. Gregory Boren; their daughter, Amanda Boren Tucker, a Miniwanca YG camper in the 1980s and a Merrowvista leader in 1991 and 1992; and her son-inlaw, Jeff Tucker, who contributed his architectural expertise to the 2025 Merrowvista Wayfinder project. Amanda, Jeff, and their children are dedicated volunteers at Merrowvista. Amanda has worked on staff for the last two summers as the New Jersey Craft House coordinator. Ann’s grandchildren – Merrowvista campers and leaders Kate and Sam Tucker and current camper Annabelle Tucker – carry on her legacy.

Mary MacMillin passed away April 19. She spent eight summers at Miniwanca Girls Camp starting in 1942. Mary’s brothers, Robert and Raymond Billett, also attended Miniwanca Boys Camp from 1935 through 1942. While her husband, David MacMillin, was also a Miniwanca camper, they did not meet until college. They returned as leaders in 1949 and later married. David, who died in 2023, worked on the Merrowvista staff for five years and volunteered with Mary many summers. Mary and David also served on the Merrowvista Advisory Board. Their children, Scott, Marty, and Kathy, were active at Merrowvista from 1967 through 1989, and the family legacy continued into the next generation.

Their grandchildren – Brian and Eric MacMillin; Cori and Stephen Plesko; and Drew, Dean, and Clay Thomas – attended Merrowvista from 1994 through the 2010s and continue to volunteer with the AYF.

Susan McColl Susan McColl, 64, passed away on Sept. 30. Susan has been an active participant in Summer Seminars for Women at Miniwanca since 2019. She is survived by her husband, Tony.

Evelyn Mayes Franks

Pope Mulherin

Evelyn Mayes Franks, 85, passed away Oct. 13, 2024. She attended Miniwanca Older Girls Camp in 1957 and returned to the AYF Service Conference in 1977 with her husband, Edwin Franks, who survives her.

Pope Mulherin, 73, passed away on Aug. 31, 2024. Pope attended Miniwanca Older Boys camp and was a member of the class of 1971. He worked on the Younger Boys camp staff as a leader and unit director from 1970 through 1974, and again in 1977 along with his wife, Deborah Mulherin, who died in 2018. He also served as an OB leader in 1972. Pope is survived by his children, David Mulherin and Jennifer Mulherin Peterson.

Rev. Elizabeth King The Rev. Elizabeth Ann King, 64, passed away April 9. She attended Miniwanca Girls Camp from the late 1980s through the early 1990s and returned for Summer Seminars for Women in 1997. She is survived by her partner, Laurie Ure; her mother, Ann King White; and a large extended family.

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Sverre Olsen Jr.

as a favorite song leader, leading the campers in song on the beach during the fire in 1960. Her father, Dr. George Michaelides, was a Miniwanca faculty member in the 1950s and 1960s, and her mother, Domna Michaelides, volunteered then as well. Her brother, Stephen Michaelides, belonged to the Older Boys class of 1954 and was also a member of the work staff in the 1950s. Her legacy continued through her daughters, Erica Rhodes Recker and Jennifer Rhodes. Erica attended Girls Camp from 1984 to 1987, was an LIT in 1988, served on staff in 1989 and 1990, volunteered each summer from 2012 to 2023, and now attends Summer Seminars for Women. Jennifer attended Girls Camp from 1984 to 1990, Merrowvista in 1990, served as an LIT in 1991, and has taken a lead role with the AYF Washington DC Regional Action Network. Daphne’s grandchildren – longtime Miniwanca campers, NLC graduates, and summer staff members Emily and Zachary Recker and current Miniwanca camper Savvas Hern – continue the family’s fourth-generation commitment.

Sverre Olsen Jr. passed away Sept. 21, 2024. Sverre was an Older Boys leader and faculty member at Miniwanca from 1976 through 1978 and a work staff dorm supervisor in 1979 and 1980. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Sara Olsen, who attended Younger Girls camp from 1970 through 1973 and graduated from Older Girls in 1975. She returned as an OG leader in 1980 and most recently attended SSW in 2025. He is also survived by his son, Kurt Olsen, a National Leadership Conference graduate and longtime NLC volunteer staff member, and his daughter, Kelsey Scheffert.

Thomas C. Oxtoby Thomas C. Oxtoby passed away at 75. His long involvement with the American Youth Foundation began at Merrowvista in 1967 and 1968, where he served on the work staff. From 1973 through 1978, he was a leader and coordinator at Miniwanca Boys Camp, integrating his professional vocation in the ministry with a focus on four-fold living. In 1979 and 1980, Tom was a member of the National Leadership Conference faculty and contributed to the effort to bring NLC to Merrowvista. During the 1970s and 1980s, he continued his service as a member of the Merrowvista Advisory Board, providing guidance and leadership for the camp’s growth.

Tom’s family is also connected to the AYF. His sister, Dr. Margaret Oxtoby, attended Merrowvista from 1966 to 1970, and his nieces, Emily and Rebecca Silva, also attended Merrowvista. His sons, Christopher and John, were Merrowvista campers in the 1980s, and later served on staff, contributing as a bike mechanic and in the food program. He is survived by his wife, Shirley FlemingOxtoby, and will be remembered for his steadfast dedication to Merrowvista.

Cynthia Strawn Cynthia L. Strawn passed away Feb. 5 at age 45. She attended Miniwanca Girls Camp from 1997 to 2000. She is survived by her mother, Barbara Wasson Strawn, who attended Girls Camp from 1960 through 1969, and her sisters, Catherine and Christine, who both attended Miniwanca in the 1990s and early 2000s. Cynthia was predeceased by her grandmother, Martha “Toot” Wasson, who attended camp in the late 1930s and early 1940s.

Cindy Weidner Cynthia “Cindy” Leber Weidner, passed away May 24 at 66. Cindy attended Merrowvista Girls Camp from 1970 through 1974 and remained a dedicated Merrowvista supporter. Her family carried forward her love for camp. She and her husband, Bill Weidner, raised four daughters – Jan, Betsy, Nancy, and Susan – who all attended and worked at Merrowvista from the 1990s through the 2010s.

Daphne Michaelides Rhodes Daphne Michaelides Rhodes passed away July 8 at 87. She graduated Miniwanca Older Girls in 1956, served as a Younger Girls leader from 1956 to 1960, was part of OG faculty through 1964, and served on work staff from 1955 to 1957. She is remembered

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of these memorials.

Please accept our sincerest apologies for any errors or omissions.

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The American Youth Foundation stands ready to meet the challenges of the next century, thanks to the generous support of our Fuel the Fire, Fund the Future capital campaign.

We didn’t just meet our $4 million goal – we surpassed it!

$4,164,595*

Hundreds of you honored the AYF’s centennial year through gifts and pledges.

Words cannot express how grateful we are for your support.

Thanks to your gifts, the AYF will: Fill our campuses year-round with more programs for youth of all ages and increased access through more scholarships and financial aid.

Increase our reach through new community and school partnerships across the country.

Restore beloved facilities like Assembly at Miniwanca and staff housing at Merrowvista.

Build for environmental resilience by investing in long-term sustainable facilities.

Thank you for investing in the next generation and securing the future of the American Youth Foundation!

A special note of thanks to our Board Chair DD Danforth Burlin, Campaign Chair Gretchen Butler Clayton, and Honorary Campaign Co-Chairs The Honorable Richard Gephardt and J. Patrick Mulcahy for their continued dedication to this campaign.

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*As of October 20, 2025. The campaign runs through December 31, 2025.

FUEL THE FIRE, FUND THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN DONORS | January 1, 2022 – October 20, 2025 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list. Please accept our sincere apologies for any errors or omissions.

$500,000+ Anonymous The Mulcahy Family The Estate of JoAnn Mulcahy

$250,000+ Anonymous DD Danforth Burlin and Johannes Burlin The Honorable and Mrs. John C. Danforth

Dr. Chandlee Dickey and Lawrence Panych Buck Drew DDS PA FourEvergreen Foundation, Inc. Tony and Shawna Gehres The Gunning Family Margot and Eric Hoerner Patricia Cobb Jones Dr. Jennifer Kittle Charlie and Leah Koch The Lemaire Family Liz Marshall Mr. Jefferson Miller and Abby Castle Michelle Morgan Shannon O’Toole Douglas Rhodes

Eleanor Cline Trent and Family Barbara Van Buskirk and Marcelo de Jesus

$1,000+ Anonymous Rhonda Rogers Armor Jay Aronson and Family Tom and Hunter Bailey Stefanie Barley Christena Bolton Judith Bushouse Richard H. Cavicchi Craig Cook Elaine Cook James Cook The Cook Family

$100,000+ Anonymous Gretchen and Jay Clayton Christopher and Molly Danforth John Drew Suzy Marshall LaPine

$50,000+ Anonymous The Honorable Richard Gephardt Jeffrey and Jennifer McDonnell Ellen Miller O’Bannon Deb Seidel Mary and Thomas Stillman

$25,000+ American Express Company Anonymous Vicki Boyd and Anna Kay Vorsteg Joan Braswell David and Christina Danforth Donald and Susannah Danforth Mrs. Donald Danforth, Jr. Elizabeth G. Danforth Tony and Shawna Gehres Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Sara Olsen and Family The Root Family Janet G. Strube Andrea and Peter Van Cleve Patrick and Kim West The Ziegelmueller Family

$10,000+ Anonymous Kay and Harvey Bell Mr. John H. Biggs

Margaret Rush A. Neil Sweeny and Family Williams Co.

Stacey and Phil Corcoran Barb J. Felton Seth Frederiksen Marc Gilbert David E. Gray John Hecker and Family The Hein Family Shawn Herron and Phuoc Le Susan and Dave Huffman Susan and Kevin Journagan The Kaplan Family Beth Kelly Amy and Nathan Kostal Susan P. Larson Jerome Magri Brian Melling Dean and Pat Messinger Betsy Newman Barry and Elaine Nocks Sarah Forbes Orwig Alison Overholt and Seth Wickersham Anne and Jack Palomaki Cheryl Ring

$5,000+ James and Bobbi Anderson Anonymous Gary J. Bloomfield, Ph.D. Mary Jane and Robert Bolle Tucker Branham Axel Burlin Hans Burlin Dr. Emily Cline Margaret Cline Curl Gray Danforth Glenn and Susan Davis Ayn Dietrich-Williams Brian and Danielle Gross Dr. Harold Harder Robert and Sally Harrison Edward and Nancy O’Leary Ted Root Sally Root Justin and Meredith Sanders 21

Chloé Risto and Kevin Byerley Michael Robinson Mary Dee and Ed Schmidt Chris Schmidt and Silvia Ortiz Tom and Jenny Schmidt Dr. and Mrs. Edward Shaheen Amy Skalinder and Erin Mays Keith and Virginia Smith Family Foundation Edith and Charles Spencer Mary Struckhoff Dr. Sharna Sutherin Dr. Michael Tchou Fred Vahle Beth Walker Dunn and Robin Dunn Amy Westerhold and Marla C. Westerhold Beverly White Arthur White and Family Pamela Wise and James Wise

$999 – $1 Elizabeth and Chris Adam Mark and Cindy Adams Linda M. Ahles Faisal Al-Juburi Janet Anderson-Reichard Michael Andreani Anonymous The Ball Family Jennifer Barth The Beard Family Katie and Albie Bell Family Kara and Rodney Benson Burke and Jo Hoyt Bero Meghan and Chris Bliss Julie Boldizar The Bowers Family: Amy, Brad, Kal, Ben and Natalie Caroline and Eric Bradley Tracy Marblestone Brant Stephen S. Brokaw Kayde Brook Julie and Mark Bruneau Angela and Todd Buchenauer Megan and Frank Bueschel Dez Buie Anita Ward Burnett Amy Campbell Debra Charles Bradley J. Collins Grace Colton Beth E. Conkin and Bill Gallagher Isabelle Cooper Marcia Corbett Paul Costa and Mia Carpiniello

FUEL THE FIRE, FUND THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN DONORS | January 1, 2022 – October 20, 2025 Karen and Ryan Cotton Judith Cox Jonathan Cox Ross Ann Craig Jennifer Cramer Philip B. Curtis Dr. Bruce and Linda Damstra Susan R. Danielson Louise Dartnell Kirsten Dartnell Robert and Lorie Davenport Helen K. Davis Mary Jane Davis Mary Fletcher DeVan and Family William DiAdamo and Heather Clark Vellie Hall Dietrich-Hall and Family Kelly Dietze Marni Dillard Sarah Dreyer-Oren Brittani Eiseman Tracy Eisenberg Dr. Frances Ekern Sarah Ekern-Schumacher Carolyn A. Faber Carol and Craig Felzien Dona and Thomas Foerster Megan Fox Tiwi and Sydney Freeman Joyce Fuhrmann Sandra and Matthew George Peter and Emily Glore Lauren and Wes Goebel Maggie Hayba Gonzales Caroline Green Anne Davis Grothe Karen Bell Gwidt and Jesse Gwidt Laura Haas Audrey Mueller Hahn Erin Hansen and Nick Tamboli Kathryn Mellis Harper Marty and Jim Harris Priscilla and James Heininger Beth H. Hilleke Calista L. Hillman Ronald B. Howe Samantha and Jonathan Huffman Marian and John Hughes Dr. Jennifer Hull Kathryn and Tad Hunter Quinn Ingram Julia Isoniemi Pamela Jadwin Richard James Laura Janneck

Beverly Stevens Jensen Jory and Calvin Johnson Heidi Frielingsdorf Johnson Lynn Ann Jones Lori and David Jones Rachel and Michael Jones Sarah and Todd Kallman Sue Kemper

Laura L. Mason Leslie Mass Carol and Philip Maus Megan Max JT Max The McGaughey Family Thearon and Vanette McKinney Barbara J. Michael

Michele Kenerson Hannah Kennedy Dr. Natalie Knesek and Mr. Tim Knesek Judy R. Koehl Sara and Richard Kopacz Jane Koten Emily Kurdziel Meredith LaCagnin Ava Lancaster Bridget and John Langford Lisa Langley and Holley Young Mary Leach and Emily Feldenkris Charles Learned Taylor Leavenworth Katie and Joe LeGrand Lori Lerman Eileen Dressel Lischer Diana Loughner-Klevansky Lisa Macera Kate Maddalena John Malnor Olivia Marshall

Debbra and Mark Midkiff Beverly Cosner Miller Carol Miller Laurie Miller and Steve Nichols Carol and Brien Moakley Ellen Cook Moore Matthew and Lauren Murrill Judith K. Nettles Kassie Nieters Erin and Shannon O’Brien Liz Ohle Kurt and John Olsen Michael and Christine Parker Mark Pawlowski Susan T. Payne W. Robert Pearson Karen J. Pfendler Teddy J. Pins Bruce G. Piper Alexa Poth Emily Prince Abby Rand

22

Susi Reed Karen Reimer Jennifer M. Rhodes Sandra Nelson Richardson Carol A. Robbins The Roelle Family Francisco Ruiz and Carolina Arango-Ruiz Catherine and Robert Runne Brenda Ryan The Schindler Family Leslie and Marc Schneider Tom Schneider Chris Schuchardt Erin and Corey Schulte-Hamilton James Schultz and Lela Ivey Michael Selby Carolyn A. Sharp John Shearer Ashley Shuckerow Lois Farley Shuford Kelley and James Skidmore Matt Smiley PJ Smith Douglas Smith and Family Tanya and Dan Springman Carol E. Strecker Randall Strube Betsy Stuerke Rebecca Styron John Suelthaus Carol and Mitch Swayze Pamela and Stanley Switlik Anna Sylvester Susan Steiger Tebb Nancy Tellier Tom and Catie Ter Horst Carol E. Thom Michelle Thompson David and Kerry Townsend Jerilyn and Dave Tuten Kelly and Cleveland Tyson Brent Underwood Alice Volkov Karin Wacker Sarah A. Wagoner Alissa Walker and Keith Scharwath John and Vicki Waller Eric Wanzel Matt Ward Marta and Mark Ward Nancy and Robert Weed Allan Whittemore Bethany and Garrett Wise Kathy Zenk

CENTENNIAL CAMPAIGN TRIBUTE & MEMORIAL GIFTS | January 1, 2022 - October 20, 2025 In Memory of Judy Bennett Susan Melson Huffman

In Honor of Erin O’Brien Tom E. Schneider

In Memory of Mary Cavicchi Richard Cavicchi

In Memory of Mary Jo O’Leary Edward and Nancy O’Leary

In Memory of Shirley Dungan Cline The daughters of Jean Dungan Van Buskirk and Shirley Dungan Cline

In Memory of Sverre M. Olsen Dean and Pat Messinger Sara L. Olsen

In Honor of Sally Danforth DD Danforth Burlin

In Memory of Dorothea Overholt Alison Overholt

In Memory of Adelaine DeGuire Audrey Hahn

In Memory of William Overholt Alison Overholt

In Honor of Buck Drew DDS PA Robert Harrison

In Memory of Daphne Michaelides Rhodes W. Robert Pearson Douglas Rhodes

In Honor of John Drew Buck Drew DDS PA Robert Harrison In Honor of Mira Felzien Carol Felzien

In Memory of Joan Grossmann Carol Felzien In Honor of JT Max Emily and Peter Glore Megan Max Matt Smiley

Helen K. Davis Sarah Ekern-Schumacher Joyce Fuhrmann Anne Davis Grothe Karen Bell Gwidt John and Barbara Hecker Margot Hoerner Marian and John Hughes Pamela Jadwin Jory and Calvin Johnson Lynn Ann Jones Michele Kenerson Dr. Jennifer Kittle Suzy Marshall LaPine Katie Belden LeGrand Lori Lerman Diana Loughner-Klevansky Lisa Macera Kate Maddalena Liz Marshall

In Memory of Kim Strube Scartelli Elizabeth and Chris Adam Jennifer Barth

Laura L. Mason Leslie Mass Vanette McKinney Barbara J. Michael Carol & Brien Moakley Shannon O’Toole

Tucker Branham Julie Boldizar Tracy Marblestone Brant Jennifer Cramer Kirsten Dartnell Louise Dartnell 23

Karen Reimer Jan Strube Randall Strube Mary Struckhoff Rebecca Styron Michelle Thompson Amy and Marla C. Westerhold Holley Young In Memory of Thomas J. Sutherin Marc H. Gilbert Brian Melling Allen Whittemore In Memory of Ryan Thomas Gray Danforth In Memory of Jean Dungan Van Buskirk The daughters of Jean Dungan Van Buskirk and Shirley Dungan Cline In Honor of Anna Kay Vorsteg Generous Supporters of Scholarship Fund In Memory of Ingrid Washinawatok Anonymous Rhonda Rogers Armor Stefanie Barley Megan and Frank Bueschel Amy Campbell Beth E. Conkin and Bill Gallagher Karen and Ryan Cotton Barb Felton Marc Gilbert Maggie Hayba Gonzales Anne Davis Grothe Dr. Jennifer Hull Sarah and Todd Kallman Beth Kelly John Malnor Brian Melling Debbra and Mark Midkiff Liz Ohle Sarah Forbes Orwig Alison Overholt and Seth Wickersham Karen Pfendler Cheryl Ring Dr. Carol Robbins Edie and Charles Spencer Carol Strecker Dr. Sharna Sutherin Allan Whittemore In Honor of Womdiheca Class of 1982 Susan Huffman

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS | Operating Actuals: January 1 to December 31, 2024

Board/Finances Update

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

EMERITUS MEMBERS

DD Danforth Burlin

Gretchen Butler Clayton

Patricia Cobb Jones

Elizabeth Calhoun

Kay Bell*

Patrick West*

Christopher Danforth*

Charlie Koch*

Chandlee Dickey*

J. Patrick Mulcahy*

Andrea Van Cleve

Donald Danforth III*

Kathryn Lemaire

John Drew*

A. Neil Sweeny*

Gray Danforth

Jeffrey McDonnell*

Glenn E. Davis

Shannon O’Toole*

Ayn Dietrich-Williams

Justin Sanders

Brian Gross*

Deborah A. Seidel

Chair

Treasurer Secretary

REVENUE

BREAKDOWN OF 2024 REVENUE

Program Fees

$ 4,517,371

Contributions

$ 2,101,080

Restricted Releases

$ 628,776

Endowment Draw

$ 681,525

TOTAL REVENUE, SUPPORT & DRAW

*not pictured

9% 8%

Program Fees Contributions Restricted Releases

26%

57%

$ 7,928,752

EXPENSES

Endowment Draw

BREAKDOWN OF 2024 EXPENSES

Program Expenses

$ 5,196,692

Scholarships

$ 886,356

Administration

$ 863,377

Advancement

$ 713,765

Building Projects

$ 268,562

TOTAL EXPENSES

$ 7,928,752

9%

3% Program Expenses

11%

Scholarships Administration

11% 66%

24

Advancement Building Projects

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

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 – December 31, 2024 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this list. Please accept our sincere apologies for any errors or omissions.

This list reflects the total amount of all donations received in 2024, including campaign and other gifts.

VOYAGEURS CIRCLE $25,000+

The Albers/Kuhn Family Foundation Anonymous DD Danforth Burlin and Johannes Burlin Gretchen and Jay Clayton David and Christina Danforth Mrs. Donald Danforth, Jr. Elizabeth G. Danforth The Honorable and Mrs. John C. Danforth John Drew FourEvergreen Foundation, Inc. Interact for Health Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Suzy Marshall LaPine Jeffrey and Jennifer McDonnell The Mulcahy Family Nestlé Purina PetCare Company The O’Brien Family Foundation Margueritte and David Perkins Deb Seidel Andrea and Peter Van Cleve Washington University in St. Louis FOUNDERS CIRCLE $10,000+

Anonymous Elizabeth Calhoun The Cook Family Christopher and Molly Danforth Dr. Chandlee Dickey and Lawrence Panych Bob, Jeri and Logynn Funkhouser Charlie and Leah Koch Lakewood Board of Education David Leisey The Lemaire Family Mary B. MacMillin James S. McDonnell Family Foundation Thearon and Vanette McKinney Ellen Danforth O’Bannon Shannon O’Toole The Pillsbury Foundation Mary and Thomas Stillman Patrick and Kim West

DIRECTORS CIRCLE

The Gunning Family Jennifer and Kevin Harris HeplerBroom LLC Shawn Herron and Phuoc Le Thomas and Hilary Hoynes Kevin and Jana Hunt Mrs. Ginny Istnick Jeff and Chris Libson Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC Heather McPherson

$5,000+

Anonymous Mr. John H. Biggs John Brewster Trust Donald and Susannah Danforth Ayn Dietrich-Williams John Hecker and Family The Hyland Family Kennelwood Village Inc.

Suzann and Jonathan Lupton Liz Marshall Douglas McAlister and Family The Estate of JoAnn Mulcahy Teddy Pins Cody and Carrie Smith Judith L. Straka

Dean and Pat Messinger Andy and Molly Mulcahy Michael and Dianne O’Brien Paula Pace James and Laura Redmond The Root Family Marilyn Ripley Scheerbaum Service Metal Pipe Fittings, Flanges & Valves Keith and Virginia Smith Family Foundation Mrs. Virginia L. Stone Jan G. Strube A. Neil Sweeny and Family The Tinker Family Michael and Jennifer Trippeer Tim and Christina Williamson

WAYFINDERS CIRCLE $2,500+

Anonymous Dave and Sara Bailey Kenneth Baughman Kathleen Beyerman and Rick Hawkins Christena Bolton Teresa Suter Bowers Hans Burlin Kathleen and Ivan Charner The Dalton Family The Daniel & Henry Company Catherine Erickson and Chris Young Tony and Shawna Gehres Mr. and Mrs. Edman L. Gray

ADVENTURERS CIRCLE $1,000+

Stephen & Nancy Ahrens Martha Allard Alliance Technologies LLC Anonymous Bank of America

25

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

Bank of America Private Bank Tom and Hunter Bailey Gary J. Bloomfield, Ph.D. John Ford Bowyer Thomas G. Brackman The Bratcher Family Jane Brock-Wilson Susan Buckley Axel Burlin Judy Staebler Bushouse Chelle Osborn Cain and Louis Cain Callier’s Catering Nicolle and Jeremy Callier Caterpillar Foundation Susan Rockwell Chandler Crystal Cobb Commerce Bank of St. Louis Constellation Elaine Cook Lara Cooper Glenn and Susan Davis Fredrica and Charles Depew Jeff Dorazewski Robin Dunn and Beth Walker Dunn Mary Erickson Pepe and Terry Finn Neil Fisher and Meryl Loonin Sandra and Matthew George Jeffrey Giles Carol Hardenbergh Elizabeth Hargreaves Kenneth and Bonnie Hargreaves Yvette LeGear Hartsfield Margot Van Buskirk Hoerner Dale Hood Mr. Brady and Dr. Brigid Hunemuller Blake Ives Liz and Dan Jackson The Jaeger Family Alan Jones Patricia Cobb Jones Susan and Kevin Journagan Amy and Nathan Kostal Mary and Mike Kupstas Neil Lewis and Katherine Lindholm The Litton Family C. Michael Lowrey Jean Ann and Charles Luckhardt Mahler Family Scholarship Fund Bruce Marshall Paul and Georgia Martin Laura L. Mason Dr. Kip and Carol McGilliard

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 – December 31, 2024 Susan and Michael McGirr Clara McLeod Susan H. McLeod Brian and Betsy Meade Jeff and Laurie Meskin James Oetting James Olson

Katherine Weih William Westhafer William R. Lathers Foundation Williams Co. Emily Willingham Laura Young Holley Young and Lisa Langley

Tom Oxtoby and Shirley Fleming-Oxtoby Anne and Jack Palomaki Bhavik and Prival Patel Amanda and Alex Perez Kenneth J. Perkins Margaret Ride Peterson The Philley Family Andreas N. Philippides Scholarship Fund James and Mary Roberts Margaret Rush S2S Investments Chris Schmidt and Silvia Ortiz Mary Dee and Ed Schmidt Tom and Jenny Schmidt Brian and Sara Schneidewind Victoria Sherman and Bill Tucker Linda Slagell Santha Stall The Stein Family Carter Stewart and Michelle Alexander Barbara W. Strawn The Tabtiang Family Mark and Dawn Tamboli Carol and James Teener Dr. Dean Telthorst Drew Thomas Washington University Athletics & Recreation Paul and Marianne Weichselbaum

LEADERS CIRCLE

Drew Carter Mary P. Chapin Jay Oprins and Cynthia Christensen Dr. Emily Cline The Cobin Family Craig Cook The Cook-Zebiak Family Jeannette O. Coomer Marcia Corbett Stacey and Phil Corcoran Core & Main LP Deloitte Stephen and Ann Desloge Hallie Dovich Mark and Katie Drew The Eaglesham Family Deana and Eric Fox Jerry and Connie Fritz Zachary Frost The Harris Family Dr. and Mrs. R. Mark Hatfield The Hein Family Shane Hinde Michelle Hirsch Katie Hodgdon and Sarah Blake Walsh Mimi S. Holmes Ronald B. Howe Richard K. Isaacson The Isoniemi Family Keith Johnson The Kaplan Family Sharon and Dennis Karr Beth Kelly Barbara A. Kerr, Ph.D. Kathryn Koch Chandler and Elysian Koglmeier James Andrew Langan Keith and Monique Lawton Veronica and Kris Light

$500+

James Abshagen Dru Anderson Anonymous Michael Arnold and Family Luke H. Balsamo, M.D. Karen Beimdiek Baratz and David Baratz Kay and Harvey Bell Grace Blinkoff Stephanie Borum and Celeste Jordan The Bowers Family: Amy, Brad, Kal, Ben and Natalie Katie Brokaw Angela and Todd Buchenauer John and Barbara Buchman Charlotte Cabrol and Amy Johnson

The Link Family Nancy Lomax Elizabeth Lupfer Martha MacMillin and George Plesko Byron and Margaret Martin The Max Family McCord Group The John and Deb Murphy Family William Nolting Edward and Nancy O’Leary Margaret Oxtoby Nancy Paysinger Robert and Michelle Pike Suzanna Gordner Pollak Quadrant Properties LLC John Reichenbach and Family Daphne M. Rhodes Dr Charles Rimmer Laura and Brian Rossbert Sharron and Daniel Sanborn Karl Schults Robert and Doni Schumacker Carolyn A. Sharp Bryan and Nicole Sherrick Kelley and James Skidmore Michael Small Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Spiegelhalter Jim Stecher Dr. Michael Tchou Susan Steiger Tebb Tom and Catie Ter Horst Mark and Mary Unangst Anne Van Wart And Michael Keable Griffin Vogler and Michael Harter The Ward Family: Alan, Katy, Guy, Callie Michael and Donna Warren The Weaver Family Jane Vahle Weingartner Beverly White Dickson and Ann Whitney The Yaney Family PATHFINDERS CIRCLE $250+

Elizabeth Ahrens Anonymous Annette Augsburger Phil and Kathy Baggett David Balster Neil and Cheryl Bartnett Julie Baxter Rick and Marguerite Bliss

26

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

Steven Borgelt Henry W. Boyd III Margo Brackett Kevin Brockman Meg Campbell The Campos Family John and Kay Clark Louise Orcutt Cleveland and Family Erin Frederick Cline Archie Clutter Paul Costa and Mia Carpiniello Paul S. Craun Jeff and Carmen Croghan Jay Crosson Bill and Nancy Dailey Buck Drew DDS PA Sarah Frail Missy Foote and Family Dr. Richard and Barbara Fox Aaron French Brenda and Harlan Geiser David Gray Joseph Greco Barbara J. Greig David and Debra Grimm Marty and Jim Harris Jennifer and Kenneth Harrop Catherine Campbell Henn and Family Barbara Henrichs Nancy and Raymond Hill Gail Hindle Al Hodgdon and Family Dr. Jennifer Hull Kristin Johnson Jory and Calvin Johnson Lynn Ann Jones Rachel and Michael Jones Todd and Sarah Kallman Carl and Marybeth Kantner John Kitson Reid B. Ladenson Ava Lancaster The Lanphier Family Judith Jobbitt and Thomas Marshall Carol and Philip Maus Ben, Peter, Meg and Jay McDermott Dave and Marla Mellon Gregg Merz Laurie Miller and Steve Nichols William Minnich and Family William R. Morris

The Kurt Mueller Family Michael Mulder Terry Muller Betsy Newman Barry and Elaine Nocks Sheila Nollen Karen (Fabian) Nordstrom Erin and Shannon O’Brien Jamie and Patrick O’Hagin The Ottman Family Stephen Owens and Ann Owens Julie Palomaki-Meadows Mark Pawlowski W. Robert Pearson Jennifer Pett-Ridge Mary Clare Phelan Dr. Richard Phillips

Edith and Charles Spencer The Spiek Family Bridget Stack Todd Stanton Carol E. Strecker Sarah and Shawn Swartzentruber Luella Swisher Piroska L Szabo The Shepherd Foundation Bets and Chris Thomas Ellen and Edward Thompson Brent Underwood The Vanier Family Sarah and Ben Van Apple Carolyn Ward Nancy Watts Linda G. Wenri

Jeffrey Armitage Jay Aronson and Family Rabia Bajwa Mariann Laue Baker Todd and Melanie Baker Urica Baker-Cron and Mark Cron Timothy Bakland The Ball Family Jane and Burton Bangsberg The Baran Family Rev. A. Otto Baumann, II Karen, Doug and John Beattie Don Beckerle Ashley Bennett Claire Bliss Meghan and Chris Bliss Camille Oehler Bondi

Steven and Frances Piesbergen The Kaptur Puma Family Emily Recker Sandra Nelson Richardson David and Christy Riel Chloé Risto and Kevin Byerley Patricia and Eric Sanders John Santelli and Jennifer Hirsch The Schindler Family Dan Schmitz John Shea John D. Simpson Amy Skalinder and Erin Mays Kit Smith

Astrid Wielens and Bridget Stearns Beth and Jeff Wilson David Wilson Kate Wissman

Kerrie Boodt Ann Bowyer Boren Lynn Bradley Vincent C. Bresch Will T. Brown Dr. Robert Bruce Barbara Bruins The Bundy Family Brendan Burke Karen Burke and Family Nan Burke and Don Burn Robin Burke Richard H. Burst Lisa Butler and Family

CHALLENGERS CIRCLE $100+

Connie Abell Kelsey Abell Howell E. Adams, Jr. Mark and Cindy Adams Samantha and Sam Alvita Frederick and Betty Anderson Anonymous

27

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 – December 31, 2024

Benjamin Caldwell Alan and Diane Campbell Amy Campbell John and June Carter Christine Cesare Ruth M. Cleveland Beverly R. Clift Kenneth Collier Dr. and Mrs. Thomas D. Collins Russ Colton and Karin Weaver Beatrice Cook Rebecca Cook and Brad Cook Dr. Margaret H. Cooper Susan and Stephen Costello John Crowley Rev. Beverly J. Crute, Ph.D. Marie Dalton-Meyer and Les Meyer Tom and Kate Danforth Helen K. Davis Jacinda A. Davis Mary Jane Davis Dean DeBoer and Tara Karr Marilyn Detrich Mary Fletcher DeVan and Family Sara Streed Dick William Dobbins Barbara and Richard Doerrer-Peacock Robert and Dawn Downey The Draper Family Ruby Dunn Tracy Eisenberg Leslie Ahrens Ellis Faye Feltner

Brian Ferguson Susan Gall The Glore Fund The Lenard Family Sarah Garner and Family Ann Ladenson Garrison Emily Gilmore Emily and Peter Glore Rebecca Epstein Goldstein Lindsay and Hunter Gordon Nancy and Michael Goyda Anne Davis Grothe Thomas Gutman Karen Bell Gwidt and Jesse Gwidt Laura Haas Robert Hagemann III Jordan Hall Lois Greenleaf Halsted M. Kay Hannah Becky and Peter Hanrahan David and Theresa Hard Joseph and Kim Harmon Veronica Johnson Harris Amy Harvey and Jennifer Tucker Judy Sindecuse Hayden Priscilla and James Heininger The Henry Family Tanya Heydt Beth H. Hilleke Timothy and Wendy Hines Susan and Allan Hinton Elaine Hoffman The Holekamp Family Shirley Ann Holt Hale and Family

28

Susan Melson Huffman Roger Humphries II Richard James Evelyn Jameson Deborah Jennings and Family Parker Jensen Heidi Frielingsdorf Johnson Patricia and Chauncey Johnstone Janelle Jones Nancy M. Kaelber Elizabeth Kantner Grace Kennedy Hannah Kennedy Dawn and Joe Kinsella The Krewet Family Dr. Sara Lynn LaCagnin Dominic and Karen Lambek Mary Leach and Emily Feldenkris Katie and Joe LeGrand Catherine Lindell Jeanne D. Lischer Michael and Kim Livingston Benedict Lochtenberg Matthew Loper The Love Family Jerie Lukefahr Rachel Major Sara Marblestone and Sheri Tracey Andy and Nancy Marr Meg Marshall Olivia and Mylia Marshall Richard Marshall

Lori L. McMann-Blum Cynthia and James Meiners Paul Menser Margaret Messawer Paul and Kay Miller Carol and Brien Moakley Scott and Jane Molden Gwen Henry Monahan Julie Monahan Erin Sauter Monolo and Angie Monolo William and Martha Monroe Elizabeth and Wayne Morris William Morris Sam Mulcahy Dan Murphy Dee Murphy Steve and Liz Murrill Jeff Nelson Judith K. Nettles Bruce Newton Susan Nibeck and Family Kimberly and Sonny Novotny Meg Schuster Nystrom Carolyn and Todd Ohle Mr. Brian O’Loughlin and Family Christine and John Orsborn Sarah Forbes Orwig The Parrott-Johnson Family Amanda Perkins J. Stuart and Debbie G. Pettitt Julie C. Pett-Ridge Catherine Skinner Powell

JT Max John and Christine McGrath Robert McGrath Sue McKinney Chris and Laura McMahon

Merlin Prior Kip Probst Dr. Martin and Mary Proudfoot Sarah Putsavage Jan Queal

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

Diane Rabe Abby Rand Erica and Chris Recker Marian Reineke Brent and Meehan Repp Jane Reynolds Jennifer M. Rhodes Laurie Rinehart-Thompson Steven and Eva Roberts Michael Robinson Jane Romack Patricia Rose Charlie and Kayshia Rosenbury Brian Rudolph Ms. Nicole Sack and Mr. Chet Savage Martin Schaner Ann and Jon Schmid Erin and Corey Schulte-Hamilton Kathleen Schweich Julius A. Seidel Jim Senger Bill Shea Dan Shea Randall and Danielle Shilton John Shivanandan Victoria Shivanandan Janet and Terry Silvester Douglas Smith and Family PJ Smith The Smyser Family The Sommer Family Mary Struckhoff William and Margaret Stude The Sullivan-Fielding Family Rose Swanson Dale C. Swihart, Jr. Pamela and Stanley Switlik Michelle Thompson Patricia Thrash Mark J. Twentyman Mike and Jenny Twist Trevor and Leslie Uhl Fred Vahle Bill Van Cleve Margaret Van Cleve Dansby and Deborah Vogler Barbara and Fred Voltmer Dayna Vuksinick Sarah A. Wagoner Lynn and Thomas Wahle Donna and Tom Walker John and Vicki Waller Cinda Lou Walton Chad and Amber Warner

Richard Watson Jack Webb Abigail and Tony Webster Charles Wehland and Gina Tabacchi Marguerite Welch Virginia Welles Phyllis Carrington Wertime Susan West Carol Crain White Frank Loren Whitington Regan and Adam Wiesler

Patricia Bergstrom Burke and Jo Hoyt Bero Dr. William and Jill Beute Laura Bliss and Kyle Vail The Arthur Bodenbender Family Jaqueline Boucher Heather Bowen Kal Bowers Aubrie Boyd Cindy Brewbaker Ruth and John Britton Casey Brock-Wilson

Evie (Hill) Williams Nancy Wilson Bethany and Garrett Wise Chris Wohlert James Yemm The Ziegelmueller Family

Pamela Brownlee and Family Lisa Brucken Caroline Brush Deborah and Derrick Buddemeyer Kyle Burke Pam Burke Irmelin Burlin Anita Ward Burnett Amy Carr Krystal Ceballos The Charner-Laird Family Deborah Chase Abbie Chronister (Greene) Theodore Clair and Family J. D. and Carolyn Clarke Janet Clement Abigail Cleveland and Jason Gottshall Richard Cobb Kelly and Wes Coker Bradley J. Collins Claire Connors James Cook

DARERS CIRCLE $1+

Elizabeth and Chris Adam Tia Afa and Adam Vogtman Carol Alexander Anonymous Caroline Anson Judy and Barry Baker Seth Baker Dr. and Ms. Baumann David W. Beck Gene Beiswenger Ron and Dianne Bekech Kaitlin Bell Katie and Albie Bell Family Adam Benhaim Tabatha Benhaim

29

Abby Copilevitz Cami Corcoran Gabriella Costello Catherine E. Cox John C. Craig Gay Goodlund Cross Philip B. Curtis Jen and James Dagdigian Anne Marie Demers Barbara Ruhl DeYoung and Family Nancy S. Dickinson Kelly Dietze Ardath Dixon Ellie Dixon Stacy Doss Rum Dugue Katy Eagles Elizabeth Early Mr. and Mrs. Karl Eberhard Lucille Eckrich Alisa Edwards Brendon Egan Sarah Ekern-Schumacher Alison and Tod Ewing Austin Faber Allison Farnen Delaney Feighan Nancy Fenstemacher Jason Fike Dan and Rita Forbush Faith Fraser Carol Savery Frederick and William Frederick Tiwi and Sydney Freeman Paul Friday Alex Fullman Claire Garlick Sarah Garvin Sarah Gehres Thomas and Patricia Geiger Jason George Karah George Jaycie Gibson Bridget Gilmore Jessa Glick, LMSW Maggie Hayba Gonzales Kevin Goodwin Matthew Gray Jim Greco Beverly Griffin Barbara Griffith Mark and Cheryl Grimm Sally and Joe Grube Stephanie Haarlammert

HONOR ROLL | Contributor Donations from January 1 – December 31, 2024 Tara H. Rebecca Harberts Maurice R. Harris Nate Harris Nathan Hatfield Markham Savvas Hern Calista L. Hillman Frederick Hird Robert and Elizabeth Hoffman Maggie Holsten Gwendolyn Hood and Family Megan Hugel Marie and Philip Huizenga Laurie Hilscher Humphrey Stacey Davis Jacobs Beverly Stevens Jensen Colleen Campbell Jersild and Family Jeffon Johnson Magnus Johnson Linda Jolly Julia Kee Sara and Tim Kelly Nana Khin Catherine Klene The Kling Family Leah Knapp Dr. Natalie Knesek and Mr. Tim Knesek Judy R. Koehl Neale Koenig Sara and Richard Kopacz Brad Kosem Ann L. and Lionel Kreamer Jane Mahler Kuipers Meredith LaCagnin Karli Lawrence Megan Lemaire Jill Lewis Arnold and Diane Light Drew Lilly Elizabeth Lilly John Linke Eileen Dressel Lischer The Litwiller Family Joseph Lock Jo and Kiau Loi Lisa Manzo Ryan Marquez Lucy Marshall The Marshall Family Rochelle Martire Jaime Martire Marion Mason Megan Max

Thomas McAlister The McGaughey Family Elise Foerster Laura H. Melton Jonathan Meshes Nick Meshes Theresa Meshes Deborah Amsden Micklos Joseph and Kathryne Mitchell Rick and Lisa Mitchell Win Moe

Christie Reed Tom Reed Judith and Kenneth Rhoads David and Nadine Richardson Charles Rittgers Jim and Kim Rosborough Robert Ross Tim and Brienne Rouse Bobby Ruebsam Sandra and Gary Ruggiero Maria Sanders and

Laura J. Mohr David and Kathleen Molamphy Edward and Irene Moon The Moulden Family Brianna Moynihan Lauren Musick Dr. Calvin and Karen Mutti Julia Novack Richard Ochoa Jr Liz Ohle Bre Orcasitas John Pape Barb Patten Kelly and Bob Patterson Beth Perkins Edward Nelson Peters Joan Peterson Ms. Mary Ann Pullin Nancy Ratliff Naomi RB Mike and Kristin Reck

Kalman Steinberg Justin and Meredith Sanders Robert E. Sanders Jordan Saylor Philip J. Schneider Riley and Julia Schoeben Erica Schreiber Lesley Schuldt Megan Schulte Presli Schumacker Nancy Schwartz Kari Schweigert Michael Selby Mary Sessions Manoochehr and Maryann Sharifi Bailey Sheats Vicki Sherman Samuel Shipe Baby Shivanandan Lois Farley Shuford

30

Denotes Member of the Eternal Flame Society

Patricia and William Simmons Amy and Kevin Simmons Mary Smith Caroline Smith Penny Smith Neal and Mardi Smith Leslie and Larry Snyder Frank So Peter and Andrea Solomon Abby Sortino Rachel Stanton Maria Sanders Jenny Stempel Julie and Donn Stengele Katie Sullivan Donalee Sumner Patrick and Diana Sweeney Anna Sylvester Nick Tamboli Tim Taylor and Family Nancy Tellier Betsy Thomas Karen and Michael Thomas Diana Tisdale Jeanne Yates Tomlinson Kelsey Tucker Jerilyn and Dave Tuten Sara Umland Renee Vander Veen Anthony Verdeja Diane Verhoff The Vigh Family Alice Volkov Dr. Mary E. Wahl Jane Wallace Stephanie Walsh Carmen Dressler Ward Barbara and David Warmbrodt Madeline Warshaw Nancy and Robert Weed Kristin Weissinger Linda Wells Danielle Williams Kelley and Bruce Wolff Eunice and Roland Wong Robert and Pamela Wunder Nate Young Kathy Zenk

TRIBUTE & MEMORIAL GIFTS | July 4, 2024 to August 8, 2025 In Honor of Max Altman Ellen Strong In Honor of the Amaranayake Family Anonymous

Dore Haverkos Amy Meredith Hertz Janice Kimpel Mellott & Mellott P.L.L. Ann and William Moran Carmen and Paul Parks

In Honor of DD Danforth Burlin Anne Van Wart

In Honor of Sandra George Kelly and Wes Coker

In Honor of Glenn Davis Nancy and Nick Holekamp

In Memory of Agnes Gowdy Carolyn and J. Clarke

In Honor of Spencer Dean Judy Dean

In Honor of Mary Kaitlin Hadley Poppy Hanrahan

In Memory of Shawman Detterman Annie Detterman and Family

In Honor of Carrie Hargreaves Smith Kit Smith

In Memory of Aaron Dornan Carol Savery Frederick and William Frederick

In Honor of Alexandra Harris Jennifer and Kevin Harris

In Honor of John Drew Rick and Marguerite Bliss In Memory of Shirley Dungan Cline Dr. Emily Cline

In Honor of Emily Armitage Jeffrey Armitage In Honor of Blaine Beeghly Dr. Sara Lynn LaCagnin In Memory of Carolyn Beimdiek Karen Beimdiek Baratz and David Baratz In Honor of Katie and Albie Bell and Family Kay and Harvey Bell Karen Bell Gwidt and Jesse Gwidt Carol and Phil Maus In Memory of Jean Booker Pat Benedict Jurgens Santha S. Stall In Memory of Christine Bookmyer Edward and Nancy O’Leary In Memory of Ann Bowyer Boren Julie and Khosrow Alamin David and Cynthia Bauer Elizabeth Blackburn Elaine Boehm Janice Brinkmiller Beth Brown Robert and Felicia Burger Diane Cordell Susan and Jay Cranley Crawford Partners LLC Ginny Dornheggen Thomas and Sharon Fenton Stephen and Judith Gerstner Cynthia and Roger Grant

In Memory of Virginia “Wink” Dunn Susan Gall John and Kaori Marshall Meg Marshall Olivia and Mylia Marshall Julie Palomaki-Meadows

Regina Peaker Mary Pieczonka Gary Pies Marianne and Louis Roedersheimer William Seitz III Michelle and Robert Stephens

In Honor of Phillip Hickman William Dobbins In Honor of Sara Hofverberg and her lifelong Miniwanca friends Nancy Lau In Honor of the Incredible Merrowvista Staff Laura and Brian Rossbert In Memory of Robert Istnick Mrs. Ginny Istnick In Memory of Bartie Jones Susan Melson Huffman

In Memory of Talia Ewing Alison and Tod Ewing

In Memory of Roland P. Ladenson Reid B. Ladenson

In Memory of Jeffrey Burrows Jim Senger

In Memory of Tom Franey Barb Patten

In Memory of Diane Litton Nicholas Litton

In Memory of Camp Mystic Carolyn and Priscilla Hubenak

In Memory of Ryan French Thomas Gray Danforth Sara Garcia Michele Sullivan Bets and Chris Thomas Kate Wissman

In Memory of Audrey Lupton Suzann and Jonathan Lupton

In Memory of Monique Coletti Carol Savery Frederick and William Frederick In Memory of Harriet Hart Collier Neale Koenig

In Honor of The Frieds Nancy Paysinger

In Honor of Cornfest Friends Sarah and Shawn Swartzentruber

In Memory of Florene L. Mahler Alice Harris Beth Wilson In Honor of Liz Marshall Lucy Marshall In Memory of Jennifer Mason Todd and Kelli Bundy Laura L. Mason In Memory of John C. McAlister Claire Garlick Barbara A. Kerr, Ph.D. Dawn Kinsella Erin Krewet Kate and Mike Kupstas Douglas and Nancy McAlister Thomas McAlister Vanette and Theron McKinney Mark Pawlowski Daniel Slavik Linda Wells

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TRIBUTE & MEMORIAL GIFTS | July 4, 2024 to August 8, 2025 In Honor of Benjamin McDermott James and Meg McDermott In Honor of Peter McDermott James and Meg McDermott In Memory of Steve Meadows Julie Palomaki-Meadows In Memory of Sharon Blackburn Meckenstock Chris Collins In Honor of Susan Melton Huffman Anna Sylvester In Memory of Johanna Meyer Horton Beth Horton Hilleke

In Memory of Kristin Miller Sharron and Daniel Sanborn In Memory of JoAnn Mulcahy Andy and Molly Mulcahy The Women of 80 Bay In Honor of Molly Mulcahy Michael Robinson In Memory of Elizabeth Mulcahy Telthorst Dr. Dean Telthorst In Honor of Cam Higginbotham Niederman, Camp Miniwanca 1961-1965 Laura and Tom Moran

In Memory of Betty and Fred Nolting Bill Nolting

In Memory of Daphne Michaelides Rhodes Diane and Steve Anderson Joanne Bader Stacy Benedict Cynthia Butler Richard Doan Joni Ecrama Janet Evans Edward and Sunny Fiske Denise Gejer Robert Gentry Nigel and Randee Griffey Carol Haag Karen Hall Markham Savvas Hern Staci Hern Paul Johnson The Kress Family Cathy Lemmon Jennifer LeSage Dan Lyon Vanette and Thearon McKinney Chris, Barbara, and Phyllis Michaelides Monday Night “Book Club” Tina Nguyen Carol Recker Emily Recker Erica Recker Doug Rhodes Jennifer M. Rhodes Emily Santowski Jon and Jennifer Schmidt Skip and Holly Schwartz Debra Shaver Elizabeth Silverman Anna Sinnis Linda Slagell PJ Smith George and Velma Spears Janet G. Strube Rebecca Timm Kathy Timmerman Barbara and Jim Tombros Lisa Warwick Mary Wright

In Honor of Erin O’Brien Dean DeBoer and Tara Karr Sharon and Dennis Karr In Memory of Marie Oetting Kelley and Bruce Wolff In Memory of Ernest Ohle Carolyn and Todd Ohle In Memory of Martha Ohle Liz Ohle In Memory of Sverre M. Olsen Brenda and Harlan Geiser

Timothy and Wendy Hines Dean and Pat Messinger Mary Ann Pullin Jane Romack Patricia Rose Neal and Mardi Smith Patrick and Diana Sweeney In Honor of Julie PalomakiMeadows Anne and Jack Palomaki

In Memory of Kim Strube Scartelli Bridget Stack Mary Struckoff Michelle Thompson

In Memory of Kathy Parrott Debbie Parrott and Erik Johnson In Honor of Ann Cameron Phillips Allison Farnen

In Memory of Alvena Kicker Schott Beth Kelly

In Honor of Hannah Puma Lisa Kaptur Puma and Scott Puma

In Memory of Gilbert Sherman Victoria Sherman 32

In Memory of Sue Skalinder Laura H. Melton In Memory of Tom Skidmore Kelley Elizabeth Skidmore In Memory of Marie Slagell Vanette McKinney PJ Smith Janet G. Strube

In Honor of the Miniwanca 1963 Camp Staff Calvin Mutti In Memory of Warren Stone Mrs. Virginia L. Stone In Memory of Mary Frances Streed Sara Streed Dick In Memory of Jack C. Swisher Luella Swisher In Memory of Susan Talley Jerie Lukefahr Julie Monahan Vicki Sherman In Honor of Nick Tamboli Michael Robinson In Honor of Adam Thomas Kate Wissman In Honor of Bets Thomas Karen and Michael Thomas In Honor of Jack Thomas Kate Wissman In Memory of Geraldine Thompson Santha Stall In Memory of M. Elizabeth and Charles Tidwell Nancy Wilson

In Memory of Patricia Uhl Pamela and Gordon Brownlee In Honor of Andi Van Cleve Sarah and Ben Van Apple Bill, Haley, and Wout Van Cleve Margaret, Greg, and Annie Van Hawk In Honor of Ella Vogler-Quintana Dansby and Deborah Vogler In Honor of Beth Walker Dunn Donna and Thomas Walker In Memory of Rosetta “Zetty” Weber Caroline Anson John Craig Veronica and Kris Light Rachel Stanton Virginia Welles In Memory of Eleanor Weston Danforth Sally and Joe Grube In Honor of Beth Wilson Erin and Shannon O’Brien In Honor of Jim Wilson David and Karla Wilson In Honor of Holley Young Kip Probst

Make a gift to the AYF by donating online at ayf.com/donate-now or scan the QR code.

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NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID

JEFFERSON CITY, MO

PERMIT NO. 210

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