Legendary actor and philanthropist Paul Newman believed that kindness is a concrete action that can change lives. In 1988, he opened the first free summer camp in the United States for children with serious illnesses. The idea was to give children with diagnoses a real childhood, and over time it grew into the global SeriousFun Children’s Network, which today works in 19 countries and includes 30 camps.
SeriousFun camps are completely free. Funding comes from the Newman’s Own brand and private donations. The programs are also adapted for children with special medical needs. Doctors and volunteers provide the required support without depriving participants of the chance to swim, ride boats, climb rocks, or fly on zip lines.
Special attention is paid to atmosphere: each child feels accepted and capable. According to surveys, 80% of participants report increased confidence and empathy. The program supports not only children, but also their families—after participating in the camp, parents report emotional relief and a sense of support.
After Paul Newman’s death, his mission was continued by his daughter, Claire. She said: “These children and their families give us much more than they receive — they teach us faith, resilience, and joy in spite of everything.”
