This July, nearly 40 young women from across North America gathered once again at Maryville Retreat Center in Holly, Michigan, for the 2025 Seeds of Hope Youth Leadership Experience. Guided by Program Outreach Coordinator Cheryl Hufnagel and supported by Felician Sisters and dedicated peer mentors, the week offered participants a unique opportunity to deepen their faith, build lasting friendships and develop leadership skills rooted in service.
Learning from Women Leaders
Seeds of Hope featured a diverse lineup of women leaders who shared their stories and insights on servant leadership, resilience and purpose. Through presentations, interactive workshops, and hands-on activities, participants explored what it means to lead. This year’s sessions encouraged the young women to reflect on their own leadership journeys and the ways they can make a positive impact in their communities.
Inspiration from the Felician Sisters
The Felician Sisters played a vital role throughout the week, offering guidance, stories of faith, and creative opportunities for service. Highlights included sessions on embracing authentic leadership, crafting meaningful service projects and recognizing the power of community. The sisters’ presence underscored the program’s foundation in spirituality and compassionate leadership.
Service, Growth and Celebration
In addition to leadership sessions, participants engaged in a day of service at local Detroit ministries, including Felician-founded Deo Gratias Ministries, reinforcing the program’s commitment to hands-on servant leadership. Time by the lake, campfire gatherings and creative crafts provided many moments of fun and laughter. The week concluded with a special closing ceremony where the young women were sent forth to carry Seeds of Hope’s message of faith and service into their home communities.
Participant Voices
“I recommend Seeds of Hope to everyone who wants to be a leader and lead with their faith as a base.”
“My experience at Seeds of Hope has changed how I see my daily life. I’ve never felt closer to God…I’ve learned so much on what it means to truly be a leader and I hope to incorporate everything I have learned in my life.”
“I recommend Seeds of Hope because it inspired me to be the person I want to be.”
With Gratitude
Thank you to our generous sponsors and donors who made Seeds of Hope 2025 possible.
2025 Sponsors:
Eleanor and Stephen Ash
Anonymous Sponsor
For a glimpse into the week’s experiences, visit our Seeds of Hope Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook pages. To learn more, visit Seeds-Of-Hope.org.
