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About

Good Old-Fashioned,
Confidence-Building Fun.

Our programs are more than just fun. They’re purposefully designed to foster independence, resilience and personal growth, helping children to see beyond the limits of their medical conditions and experience all that life can offer.

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This is SeriousFun

Together, we empower children with serious illnesses and their families to reimagine what is possible by creating inclusive camp and recreational experiences, inspiring confidence and joy, and building community and connection.

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we’re where
the fun is

Truly a global network, we reach beyond borders and beyond the limitations of illness.

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How the Fun Began

More than 30 years ago, Paul Newman started a free camp where kids could escape the fear and isolation of their medical conditions and, in his words, “raise a little hell.” This remarkable concept sparked a quiet movement, and that one camp launched a global network. Today, there are 30 camps and programs serving the needs of children and families around the world.

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A History of Fun

  • 1988

    Paul Newman opens The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp for children with serious illnesses in Ashford, CT. A generous vision of creating a fun, safe environment for children of all circumstances and backgrounds finally became a reality.

  • 1994

    Following in the footsteps of The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp and Double H Ranch in NY, and with the generous donation of a 500-acre estate from the Irish Government, Barretstown in Ireland becomes the first camp outside of the US.

  • 2008

    After an earlier trip to Africa, Paul’s global vision is realized when SeriousFun launches its global Partner Program, providing culturally applicable programs that excite and empower children around the world.

  • 2012

    SeriousFun Children’s Network unveils its new brand name and logo, uniting Paul Newman’s global family of camps and programs.

  • 2017

    Since the first camp opened in 1988, SeriousFun has delivered more than ONE MILLION life-changing camp experiences to children living with serious illnesses and their families, always free of charge.

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making a
life-changing impact

Our camps are more than just fun — they’re life changing. The moments created at camp have improved self-esteem, social skills and more. It’s true. SeriousFun makes a difference!

Our Impact