Rick Mades believed deeply in the power of camp to change lives. From the time he first went to camp as a child, camp became a defining part of who he was. Over the years he spent more than three decades as a camper, counselor, teacher, advisor, and director before founding Maine Arts Camp in 2004. Rick set out to create a place where young people could feel welcomed, supported, and free to be themselves in a non-competitive environment. The Richard H. Mades Scholarship Fund was created so that more children and teens can experience the kind of camp community Rick believed in so deeply.

The camp community he built has now touched the lives of thousands of kids, teens, and staff members. Hosted on the campus of Tilton School in Tilton, NH, Maine Arts Camp is a safe, welcoming place where campers are encouraged to try new things, take creative risks, and find their people. While campers grow through performing arts, visual arts, and many other activities, at its heart MAC is a summer home where belonging comes first.

Rick believed camp should be a place where kindness and creativity exist together. A place where young people can explore the arts without pressure, discover new passions, and form friendships that last a lifetime. The arts are a powerful way to build confidence, encourage collaboration, and help campers discover who they are.

For many young people today, opportunities to explore the arts and creative expression are limited or no longer available in their schools. At Maine Arts Camp, campers are given the time, space, and support to develop artistic skills while also trying new things and growing in their independence.

Helping young people find their place at camp was always at the heart of Rick’s work.

Rick's vision and impact remains at the heart of Maine Arts Camp, from the arts studios and stage, to the pickleball and tennis courts and beyond. A gift to the Richard H. Mades Scholarship Fund honors Rick’s legacy while helping ensure that the camp he created continues to be a place where young people feel welcomed, supported, and inspired to grow. Your support opens the door for more campers to discover their creativity, build confidence, and find a summer home at Maine Arts Camp.

We invite you to honor Rick’s legacy with a gift to the Richard H. Mades Scholarship Fund. Your generosity will help make Maine Arts Camp accessible to campers who might not otherwise have the chance to attend.