Frequently Asked Questions

The AHS Youth Retreat is four days of connection and joy. Youth make new friends and lasting memories as they strengthen their testimonies together. Rooted in unity and faith, the retreat aims to bring youth closer to Christ through devotionals, inspiring speakers, service-minded activities, and a lot of fun.

The retreat is for youth turning 12 through 18 in 2027. Some exceptions can be made for 19-year-olds who are completing their senior year during the 2027–28 school year.

We follow Church guidelines by admitting only youth turning 14 or older in 2027 to the dance. Younger youth will enjoy a movie night at the same time.

We've planned a wide variety of activities to appeal to as many youth as possible. We can't cater to every individual interest, but we hope there's enough variety each day that every youth finds something to look forward to.

We group youth of the same gender and similar age.

It depends on the host family, but the minimum is 3 youth per family. The maximum largely depends on the size of the host family's vehicle.

Yes. Both youth need to request each other for the request to be valid. Requests aren't guaranteed, but we'll accommodate them where we can.

Yes. Both youth need to request each other for the request to be valid. Requests aren't guaranteed, but we'll accommodate them where we can.

All host families go through an application process in which they agree to maintain specific standards for dress, entertainment, food, sleep schedule, and transportation.

There are several requirements to be approved as a host family. If you're interested in hosting, indicate it when you fill out your registration information. If you've already registered and decide you'd like to host, email Peter Knecht at pknecht@ahsworldwide.org.

Host families receive a stipend of $100 per youth hosted.

Parents or host families are responsible for getting youth up, showered, and fed, then bringing them to the school each morning in time for the Morning Devotional. Parents or host families also pick youth up at the end of each day. See the daily schedule for times.

We won't be picking up or dropping off youth at the airport. We will help coordinate hosting for a fee of $150 per youth, so whether you find your own hosting or we pair you with a family, you may be able to coordinate airport rides with them.

For an additional $50 fee, we'll accommodate food allergies within reason. We'll reach out to parents who purchase this add-on to coordinate accommodations.

Meals are provided as shown on the schedule. Personal money is only needed if youth want to buy extra food or snacks. For example, many youth bring money for snacks at Splash Summit.

We don't offer scholarships or other discounts, since the retreat is priced to cover costs.

Yes, refunds are available up to a deadline before the retreat; the 2027 deadline will be posted here. Email support@ahsworldwide.org for full details on eligibility, timing, and conditions. We're happy to help.

We'll reach out to parents who offer to volunteer during registration and share a digital sign-up sheet with specific tasks. If you decide to volunteer later, email Oba Bonner at obonner@ahsworldwide.org.

We'd love your help! Volunteer jobs include food prep and serving, setup and cleanup for activities and events, coordination and communication, extra supervision, and more.

We deeply appreciate parent volunteers, but volunteer service isn't compensated with a retreat discount.

The Talent Show is one of several chances for youth to share their talents. It's for fun, entertaining performances: musical numbers, dance routines, skits, and just about anything else that's fun to watch on stage. See the Talent Show page for audition details.

No. To preserve the nature of sacred music, youth will perform spiritual musical numbers at Morningsides and the fireside. Registered families will receive details on how to sign up and audition.