What If This Summer Changed Your Teen’s Life Forever?

Every summer, parents across Maui ask the same question: How can I get my teen off their phone, out into the world, and doing something that actually matters?

For lots of families, the answer has been Camp Imua for nearly 50 years.

This summer, Camp Imua celebrates its 50th anniversary — a milestone built on compassion, courage, connection, and thousands of Maui youth who chose to spend one week making a difference in someone else’s life. And now, a new generation of high school and college students has the chance to become part of that story.

From June 6–11, 2026, Camp Imua will once again transform Keanae into one of the most meaningful places on Maui, bringing together children with special needs and an incredible team of volunteer counselors ages 15–21 for a week of non stop adventure, inclusion, and unforgettable memories.

But ask almost any former counselor what they remember most, and they probably won’t start with the beach days, dance parties, talent shows, horseback riding, helicopter rides or late-night campfires.

They’ll talk about the moment something shifted inside them.

Because Camp Imua has a way of changing people.

For many teens, it’s the first time they’ve been trusted with real responsibility. The first time they’ve learned to lead with patience instead of ego. The first time they’ve discovered that showing up for someone else can completely transform how they see themselves.

And the impact lasts.

Former counselors often describe Camp Imua as one of the defining experiences of their teenage years — something that helped shape who they became as adults, parents, teachers, healthcare workers, coaches, and community leaders. Many return year after year because the friendships, perspective, and purpose they find at camp are hard to replicate anywhere else.

At Camp Imua, counselors work in teams and help support campers throughout the entire week, creating a safe, encouraging environment where every child feels included, celebrated, and free to simply be a kid. No experience is necessary — just kindness, patience, and a willingness to jump in with an open heart.

And while the emotional impact is huge, there are practical benefits too.

Counselors earn more than 130 volunteer service hours in just one week, gain hands-on leadership experience, and build skills that stand out on college, scholarship, and job applications.

More importantly, they walk away with confidence that can’t be taught in a classroom.

Parents consistently tell us they notice a difference after camp. Teens come home more mature, more empathetic, more independent, and more connected to their community. Something about spending a week focused entirely on inclusion, teamwork, and joy leaves a lasting mark.

And this year’s camp will be especially meaningful.

As Camp Imua celebrates 50 years, the organization is honoring generations of campers, counselors, families, and volunteers who helped build this incredible tradition. Over the decades, thousands of Maui youth have stepped into leadership roles through Camp Imua, helping create life-changing experiences for children with special needs while discovering their own potential along the way.

This is more than volunteer work.
It’s more than community service hours.
It’s a chance for your teen to become part of something bigger than themselves.

So if your child is looking for a summer experience that is fun, meaningful, challenging, unforgettable, and genuinely life-changing, this might be exactly what they need.

Camp Imua 2026 runs June 6–11 at Keʻanae Uka on Maui. Counselor positions are open now for high school and college-aged students ages 15–21, and spots fill quickly every year.

Learn more and register here:
Apply to Be a Camp Imua Counselor