Rick Mades

Rick has been in summer camping for most of his life. He started attending overnight camp at age 9 and is entering his 34th summer at overnight camp. Whether he was attending college, teaching tennis or mathematics, his summers always included camp. He loves the freedom that campers have to grow, gain independence, connect with like-minded campers and staff, gain skills in areas of interest, and find a summer home. Camp has affected Rick in his life choices and it is so meaningful for him to hear that Maine Arts Camp can have the same effect on its campers and staff. Before starting Maine Arts Camp in 2004, Rick started Camp Finders (1994), a referral service for families looking for a quality camp or teen experience. Rick personally visited about 170 overnight camps and teen programs and talked with thousands of parents. These camp visits, parent conversations, camp evaluations and more all helped Rick create the small, creative community of Maine Arts Camp. Rick’s experience as a math teacher, camp advisor, cabin counselor, and tennis director has also given him a unique perspective on children’s interests and needs. In 2014, Rick became a certified mediator and has mediated over 500 cases. The skills he has gained as a mediator has helped in working with parents, staff and campers. Rick fosters a non-competitive environment at Maine Arts Camp and welcomes campers to become part of our small community and celebrate their individuality!