The American Youth Foundation's  Miniwanca and Merrowvista:
Camps, Conferences, School and Community Programs

Inspiring Youth to Action

The American Youth Foundation inspires people to discover and develop their personal best, to seek balance in mental, physical, social and spiritual living and to make a positive difference in their communities and in the wider world.

AYF programs seek to enhance not only a child’s skills, but their confidence in themselves and their future, their character, and their connections to other people. Our outstanding staff work to create communities where youth feel supported and empowered to discover who they are and what they are capable of achieving.As a leader in positive youth development, AYF programs inspire people to be their best selves. We achieve this by creating fun and safe environments where participants learn new skills and make new friends – and we believe much more is possible! AYF provides a progression of age appropriate adventures and opportunities for participants of all ages. Our philosophy of "Best Self", "Balanced Living" and "Healthy Friendships" is intentionally interwoven throughout the program experience. We believe AYF participants will:

•  Leave with newly gained confidence in themselves
• Be able to talk about who they are and what they are capable of achieving
• Discover and develop their personal best
• Act in ways consistent with their values
• Help to create a community where trust, cooperation and respect are the foundation