SeriousFun Children's Network
SeriousFun Children's Network is a global community of 30 camps and programs for seriously ill children.[1] All camps and programs offer free recreational experiences to children with serious illnesses and their family members.[2][3] The first SeriousFun camp was launched in 1988 by founder Paul Newman.
Founded
SeriousFun camps and programs serve children living with over 50 medical conditions, including those with cancer, HIV/AIDS, sickle cell disease, endocrine disorders, orthopedic conditions and severe asthma.[4] Since 1988, SeriousFun camps and programs have served over 1.3 million children and their family members from more than 40 countries.[5]
The organization was founded by Paul Newman, who wished to establish a place where children living with serious illnesses could enjoy their childhood.
Impact[edit]
Since 1988, SeriousFun camps and programs have served 1.3 million children and family members,[5] serving 127,153 children and family members in 2015 alone.[9] The name SeriousFun is said to acknowledge Paul Newman's playful humor and the belief that it is important to take fun seriously. According to a 2014-2015 Outcomes Evaluation conducted by Yale's Child Study Center, 79% of camper parents reported an increase in their child's confidence, 74% reported an increase in their child's independence and 80% reported greater openness in their child's willingness to try new things after camp.[10] According to the Global Partnership Program Camp Outcomes Evaluation conducted by San Diego State University in 2013, there was a 58% improvement in campers taking their ART (antiretroviral therapy) medicines in Ethiopia, India and Vietnam after having attended camp.
Structure[edit]
SeriousFun Children's Network is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3) American organization. Within its global network, 16 are Full Member camps, which are independently managed and financed nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations. SeriousFun camps and programs are located in the United States, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Caribbean. The Support Center, based in Westport, Connecticut, provides technical expertise and professional development to support member camp sustainability. The center also facilitates the global delivery of camp programs through the Global Partnership Program and assists donors interested in providing financial support to multiple camps.[11]