About AYF and Miniwanca
At Miniwanca, We Live Life Differently
American Youth Foundation
Miniwanca
Our days are simpler but richer. We challenge often but have more fun. The outdoors
is our home. We work together to create a community where individuals are respected
and where our values guide our actions. We gain confidence. We share. We have fun.
Summer Day Camp
A Mission-based Approach
August 21-25, 2017
As a leader in youth development, Miniwanca inspires people to be their best selves.
We achieve this by creating a fun and safe environment where campers learn new
skills and make new friends – and we believe much more is possible! Our philosophy
of Best Self, Balanced Living and Healthy Friendships is intentionally interwoven
throughout all of our programs.
We believe Miniwanca campers 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.
Day Camp for rising 1st- 6th graders
Junior Mentor leadership program for rising 7th and 8th graders
See program details inside!
My own self, At my very best, All the time
About Day Camp
Camper Preparation
What to Expect
Transportation
Day Camp allows campers in first through eighth grade the chance to experience all
that Miniwanca has to offer. Throughout the week, campers of all grades will
participate in Interest Groups such as crafts, swimming in Stony Lake and hiking
through the sand dunes.
1st-6th Grade Program
The 1st-3rd graders in the Discoverer program and the 4th-6th graders in the Pioneer
program will work together with the Junior Mentors to explore the environment of
Miniwanca. Campers will have opportunities to engage with the large group
community, team build with their peers, and choose several small group activities.
Junior Mentor Program
Bus Option
Transportation to and from camp will be provided for an additional fee of $25 for the
week from the front doors of Ealy Elementary in Whitehall. A Miniwanca staff
member will be present at drop-off and pick-up.
Campers should arrive at the front doors of Ealy Elementary by 8:15 a.m. The bus will
depart for Miniwanca at 8:30 a.m.
A bus will return to Ealy Elementary at 5:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and at 7:00 pm
on Friday.
Personal Transportation Option
The Junior Mentor Program is an opportunity for rising 7th and 8th graders to learn and
practice leadership skills. It also provides our oldest campers with an opportunity to
give back to Day Camp with an added level of leadership, responsibility, and
involvement with the younger campers.
Parents can also transport campers directly to camp. Campers are welcome to arrive
at the MILLS CENTER ENTRANCE at Miniwanca between 8:30 - 8:45 a.m.
Schedule
How to Register and Cost
Each day is structured around a particular theme: Making New Friends, Exploring Best
Self, Helping Others, Personal Challenges and Celebration. All age group and all-camp
activities are designed to reinforce these themes. Campers can also earn “Best Self
Beads” each day for identifying how they exemplified our motto:
My own self, At my very best, All the time
Typical Day
Campers should be picked up at the EAST ENTRANCE of Miniwanca at 5:00 p.m.
As we continue our efforts toward sustainability we have moved to an online
registration, rather than the paper forms we have used in the past!
To register for Miniwanca Day Camp 2016, or to find out more about financial aid
opportunities, please log on to www.ayf.com/miniwanca and fill out the registration
form! If you would like to request a paper registration form, please contact our
Registrar Paula Klotz by calling 231-861-2262, x1113.
8:30 a.m. Arrival and Opening Assembly
1:00 p.m. Easy Time (rest time)
9:30 a.m. Age Group Activity Blocks
2:15 p.m. Waterfront/Field Activities
10:30 a.m. Interest Groups
4:30 p.m. Closing
12:00 p.m. Lunch
5:00 p.m. Departure
On Friday, join your children and the Miniwanca staff for a BBQ at 5:15 pm to
celebrate our week!!
1st-6th grader- $230.00
7th-8th grader- $150.00
For more information about Registration please contact us at:
Miniwanca, 8845 W Garfield Rd, Shelby, MI 49455
231-861 2262 [email protected]
www.ayf.com