Silent PartnersAbout Us
HCI Founders Mo and Will Maurer
Our Mission
Hawaii Canines for Independence is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that provides people with physical and developmental disabilities professionally trained dogs that will give them increased freedom and enhance the quality of their lives. Hawaii Canines for Independence is committed to researching and developing the potential dogs have to assist people in need.
Our History
Will and Mo Maurer, founders of Hawaii Canines for Independence, started working in the Assistance Dog industry in 1995 when they realized the difficulty Hawaii residents had in obtaining Guide Dogs. They began volunteering with the Royal New Zealand Foundation for the Blind assisting in the raising and placing of Guide Dogs with Hawaii residents.
In 2000, Mo Maurer gave up a successful career as a CPA decided to devote herself full time to the Service Dog industry. Since then, Hawaii Canines for Independence has graduated over 30 Service Dog teams that are making a daily difference in the lives of their partners. Hawaii Canines for Independence has also placed numerous Therapy Dog Teams around the state. Hawaii Canines for Independence has also assisted in the placement of many Guide and Hearing Dog Teams.
Our Vision
Our goal is to continue expanding and graduating more quality Service Dog Teams that help both the dogs and their partners realize their full potential.Our Campus
Located in beautiful, upcountry Maui, "Sadie's Place" is a state of the art Service Dog Training Facility located on 3 acres of land surrounded by Haleakala Ranch. The facility includes indoor and outdoor training areas, offices, classrooms, kennels and housing for students and graduates.
The new training facility has allowed Hawaii Canines for Independence the opportunity to expand its scope and services. Programs have been established to host weekly visits from hospitals, schools and other organizations that serve people with disabilities. An Internship Program, a Workplace Readiness Program and Student Volunteer Programs also take place at the facility.