Zipline Alumni News

The past several months have been a time of active listening for Adventure Unlimited as we began returning to in-person programming. There were many questions and variables to consider in the spring as we determined the right steps for DiscoveryBound and A/U Ranches activities. Although challenging, it was a wonderful opportunity to dig into this year’s metaphysical theme from Science & Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy:

The National Alumni Board (NAB) of Adventure Unlimited held their annual retreat at the A/U Ranches, September 24-26. Thirteen out of 20 members  gathered in person, and more attended virtually for committee planning sessions focused on serving alumni in the coming year.

The National Alumni Board (NAB) has launched a new podcast, A Thousand Windows, which shares interviews with members of the Adventure Unlimited alumni community about their experiences in A/U Ranches and DiscoveryBound (formerly A/U Chapter) programs.

The debut episode features Hap and Stephanie Holly, who met at the A/U Ranches in the 1970s and are now married.

Unity isn’t something we force or need to be afraid of losing. Unity is the essential nature of the relation between God and Her beloved children, you and me. Adventure Unlimited opens many windows in our lives to see the light of God… and in seeing that light, we’ll realize that we are a crucial part of that light. 

I thought back to my experience as a camper and realized that time I spent at the A/U Ranches had a huge impact on my perception of Christian Science. I had realized there were so many young Christian Scientists like me who came to camp to experience what it was like to be surrounded by other like-minded people. 

“What would I do if this were a camper or a staff member and we were midway up the mountain? Of course, we would pray.” At that moment, I pulled out my phone where I had downloaded the audio version of that week’s Bible Lesson. I turned the volume up, put it back in my pocket and began climbing. I listened, and with each step I began to feel the fulfillment of spiritual joy that began rushing through me. Every step became steadier. Every rock became firm.

Zipline catches up with three new members of Adventure Unlimited’s Board of Trustees – Amanda Weitman, Lisa Hambrick Graff and Lissa Murphy – and two new National Alumni Board members, Lisle Stigler and Nate Haase.

What’s ahead? Christmas Camp, DiscoveryBound Outreach events for everyone, and a powerful opportunity to support our adventures on #GivingTuesday (November 30).

Wondering how Adventure Unlimited’s programs are running now that restrictions and regulations are lighter? Here are a few updates.

A poem by Jennifer Franklin, A/U Ranches camper, staff alumna and National Alumni Board member