Every child deserves the opportunity to choose a different path.
At the Keala Foundation, we provide two free youth camps designed to support growth, resilience, and healthy decision-making.
Whether your child would
benefit from a short, prevention-focused experience or a more immersive, holistic program, we have a camp that fits their needs.
Which camp is right for your child?
YMEC
Youth Mentorship & Engagement Camp
How long is YMEC?
10-day overnight camp
Who can join YMEC?
Ages 11-18
Who is YMEC for?
Youth who want mentorship, confidence, and positive routines
What are the main goals of YMEC?
- Learn to handle challenges and avoid risky behaviors
- Feel more confident and positive
- Understand risks of substance use
- Stay active and play sports
- Keep practicing healthy habits
What is expected from participants and parents/caregivers?
Participants are expected to:
- Participate in the intake process
- Participate in the program and be engaged in learning with peers
- Attend and actively participate in all 10 days at camp
- Adhere to program & facility rules and guidelines
Parents/Caregivers are expected to:
- Participate in the intake process
- Parents/Caregivers are also invited to attend the Parent/Caregiver Support Group Discussions, if desired.
Who is on the YMEC team?
- Coaches and Mentors from the community
- Prevention Educator
- Hawaiian Cultural Practitioner
How much does YMEC cost?
Free
What about school?
YMEC usually takes place during a school week, and we know balancing academics with personal growth is important. Many schools across Kauai support approved absences for youth attending the camp. Some schools, however, may ask parents or guardians to notify teachers or administration directly to ensure all accommodations are arranged.
KSEIP
Keala to Success, Empowerment, & Initiative Program
How long is KSEIP?
4-week program in two phases.
Phase 1: 10-day camp
Phase 2: (remaining 18 days), Monday-Thursday: after-school workouts and mentorship for 3 weeks; Friday-Sunday: weekend camps for two additional weekends
Who can join KSEIP?
Ages 12-18
Who is KSEIP for?
Youth facing challenges at home or early signs of substance use who need extra support
What are the main goals of KSEIP?
- Help kids stop or prevent risky behaviors early
- Get families involved and supported
- Learn about Hawaiian culture and values
- Stay active and play sports
- Support mental, emotional, and spiritual growth
What is expected from participants and parents/caregivers?
Participants are expected to:
- Participate in the intake process and be engaged and interested in changing their past patterns
- Attend and actively participate in both Phase I (10-day camp) and Phase II (weekday activities and two weekends back at the camp)
- Adhere to program rules and guidelines
Parents/Caregivers are expected to:
- Participate in the intake process
- Attend and participate in the weekly Parent/Caregiver Support Group for the duration of the program
Who is on the KSEIP team?
- Prevention Educator
- Peer Recovery Coaches and Mentors
- Hawaiian Cultural Practitioner
- Clinical Mental Health Professional
How much does KSEIP cost?
Free
What about school?
Parts of KSEIP may take place during a school week, and we know balancing academics with personal growth is important. Many schools across Kauai support approved absences for youth attending the camp. Some schools, however, may ask parents or guardians to notify teachers or administration directly to ensure all accommodations are arranged.
Upcoming Camps
Our next YMEC session will take place October 18–25, 2026. We are still determining whether this session will be a Girls Camp or a Boys Camp, and your feedback will help us make that decision.
Please complete this form to let us know if you are interested in participating. This will help us gauge interest and plan the session that best meets the needs of our youth and families.
Boys YMEC
10-Day Camp
Dates TBD
Boys KSEIP
30-Day Camp
Dates TBD
Girls YMEC
10-Day Camp
Dates TBD
Girls KSEIP
30-Day Camp
Dates TBD
Lauae, KSEIP Graduate
“The Keala Foundation and their team have given me the best chance to make a change. Having this experience was eye-opening and showed me the choices I have to make."
