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Experience Camps Maui

Welcome to Experience Camps in Maui!

Experience Camps in Maui is a free 4-day, 3-night camp for kids who have experienced the death of a parent, sibling or primary caregiver. We provide a safe environment where kids can explore their grief, break the isolation they may feel with their non-camp peers, and have a whole lot of fun.

For keiki on Maui entering grades 4th – 11th in the 2024-25 school year who are grieving the death of a parent, caregiver, or sibling.

Dates: August 1 – August 4, 2024

Location: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Camper Referral Form

What last year’s caregivers had to say about Experience Camps in Maui

“We couldn’t have asked for a better weekend for our camper and ourselves. It was so touching to feel supported by everyone involved in this camp. From you, to the leaders, and the staff at the Four Seasons, everything was perfect. You made us feel like VIP! We are so grateful for this opportunity.”

“Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart… this was truly so special and meaningful and all of the work you all are doing is such a gift.  My camper didn’t want it to end and is already asking to join again next year.  It was truly magical.”

“Look forward to hearing all about next year!  Our camper is so excited to go back!”

“Our camper said the camp was one of his best experiences!”

“It melts my heart and brings me so much joy that our camper has finally connected with other children.  After camp she wanted us to look at pictures of her people who have died. We shared stories.  I can’t thank you all enough for the impact you made on her. It’s amazing what you all did in that short time.”

“This camp was definitely one for the books!  They really enjoyed themselves and expressed feeling safe. Since camp, there have been changes, with both campers being much kinder to each other and getting along.  It fills my heart to hear them laughing so much and playing…being kids!  Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

How do I sign up?

Parents & Caregivers, if you have a keiki you would like to come to camp, complete this quick referral form.  ExperienceMaui staff will review the form and contact you to schedule a phone call to connect with you and your camper. From there, staff will decide if our camp is the best fit for your camper. Camp space is limited and spots will be filled on a first come, first served basis once the above steps are completed.  We plan to enroll 12 keiki in camp.  We also recommend that at least six months have passed since the death of your camper’s person or people.

What Will campers do?

The camp will include activities that make both Experience Camps and Camp Manitou at Wailea so special, combining the best of what each program is known for: Grief & Play.

Program includes:

  • Island adventures, fun, games and lots of laughs!
  • Sharing circles, grief activities, and time for campers to slow down to reflect on their grief
  • Meaningful connection with peers who “get it” about grief 
  • Campfires, s’mores, and more!

What is the cost of camp?

The camp is free for campers. This includes transportation from Central Maui, food, activities, and housing. Campers and staff will stay in a suite at the Four Season Resort at Wailea that is being converted camp-style!

Who are the staff and how will they keep my camper safe?

ExperienceMaui is staffed by veteran Camp Manitou counselors who undergo background checks and receive trauma, grief- and lifeguard-training. Campers will be monitored by adult staff at all times. Camp will also be divided in age-appropriate upper and lower camp units as needed.

Have questions or want to learn more? Contact Tristan Hewat, Program Director, or Beth Ricciardi, Grief Specialist, at the email addresses below:

Tristan Hewat, Camp Manitou tristan@campmanitou.com
Beth Ricciardi, LCSW, Experience Camps. Licensed in Hawaii. beth@experiencecamps.org

Click below for a sample daily program outline

Program outline

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