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Find the
perfect camp
for your family
Explore Our Programs
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Why The AYF
AYF Store
Work for AYF
Why The AYF
AYF Store
Work at Camp
Find the
perfect camp
for your family
Explore Our Programs
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Why The AYF
AYF Store
Work for AYF
All the Latest

News From AYF

AYF Regional Action Networks gather Founder Friends across the U.S.
As the American Youth Foundation prepares for its centennial in 2025, President Liz Marshall and Vice ...
Staff Spotlight: Miniwanca’s Brianna Moynihan
Miniwanca Assistant Director of Camps Brianna Moynihan has attended summer camp for as long as she remembers: as a camper, then a counselor, and a …
NLC Class Challenge raises more than $15,000 for scholarships
The National Leadership Conference community once again proved that not only could they rise to the challenge, ... but they could also exceed it. In total, …
All the Latest

News From AYF

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Calibrate your 2026 with YearCompass
The American Youth Foundation invites you to join us once again for a virtual experience that will bring intention to your new year, called the YearCompass. Originating over a decade ago by...
Will you support kids at AYF before Dec. 31?
Hundreds of kids are already registered for 2026 programs at Miniwanca and Merrowvista. Your donation today will help prepare staff, strengthen program quality, and fund scholarships that open doors for young people...
Learn more about 2026 NLC and Miniwanca summer camp this winter
The Miniwanca team is hitting the road this winter to share exciting plans for National Leadership Conference and summer camp 2026! Find the location closest to you and RSVP below to learn...
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Centennial

100 Stories Project

The American Youth Foundation has transformed countless young people and their families in the last 100 years, and everyone has a story. We hope you’ll share it with us as part of our 100 Stories project.

Learn More
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[After Merrowvista,] I ended up having a completely different self image than I'd ever had in my life before that.
Susan Shauger
1985 to 1970 Merrowvista Particpant and Staff
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I couldn't be more proud of or more grateful for what Camp Miniwanca has meant in my life.
Myron Rivers
Miniwanca Participant
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Camp has helped me grow in an optimistic way. Instead of complaining about more things, I've always been able to find the good and exciting parts of activities we do.
Anelya Cesar
2018 to 2025 Merrowvista Camper
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This place feels like my second home. I feel so great here, like everyone who’s here truly belongs.
Cece MacGuidwin
Miniwanca camper, 2024
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I love the sense of community it brings. I think that's one of my favorite memories, is just how everybody can come together.
Cally Camara
Miniwanca staff, 2024
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