US Servas 2023 National Conference

PROGRAM         VENUE         LODGING       PRESENTERS       TRANSIT       REGION 

US Servas 2023 National Conference is October 6-8

Venue: Our conference is being held at Frost Valley YMCA Camp,  a gorgeous, 5,000-acre setting nestled in the Catskill Mountains about 2-½ hours from New York City. Early October should be near peak Autumn colors with delightful daytime temperatures in the low to mid 60s and crisp evenings in the low 50s to upper 40s. Enjoy paddle-boarding or canoes on the lake, or short hike to a 30-foot on-site waterfall. There are numerous hiking and walking trails on the grounds.

Program Summary: We have a great program of speakers, workshops, how-to sessions, live entertainment, peace award presentations, Peace Pole installation, and more. A highlight will be the presentation by Chief Vincent Mann of the Ramapough Lunaape Nation on the struggles indigenous peoples still face, and what non-tribals can do to help. There will be plenty of time for getting to know one another and share stories over a beverage (BYO). Each lodging facility has a fire pit with firewood so we can enjoy crisp Fall evenings around a campfire. 

Post Conference: After the conference people can either join a peace hike up to the nearby Red Hill fire tower, or visit the Museum at Bethel Woods (Woodstock museum), followed by a lakeside dinner in Kauneonga.

Accommodations: We have reserved a range of two-night lodgings including a yurts ($25), 5-bunk cabins ($55), and 4-bunk lodge rooms with lounge area ($85). We are using bottom bunks only, so you can store your stuff on the top bunk (or vice versa).

Frost Valley also has motel-style rooms at Lakeside Lodge, and charming B&B style rooms at "the Castle". These accommodations are quite expensive ($190 per night) and must be booked separately (call 845-985-2291 ext. 213 or email  info@frostvalley.org) 

Local Hosting: There are very few Servas members near the venue, and the ones that are nearby have reserved hosting for international attendees. 

NYC Hosting: Hosting may be available before and after the conference, for those wishing to extend their visit. This is being coordinated by the local Servas group.  See the registration form or email conferences@usservas.org.

Meals: Six meals plus refreshments are included with registration beginning with dinner Friday and ending with a box lunch on Sunday. Vegan options will be included with each meal.

Refund Policy: Reservations can be refunded LESS a $50 cancellation fee until September 15.  We are unable to issue refunds AFTER Sept 15. 

Volunteer Discount: Core US Servas volunteers are eligible for a $50 discount on the attendance fee. Check with your team leader for a special registration code.

Questions? For all other questions, please email  conference@usservas.org.