Paul Newman's Daughter Carries On His Camp Legacy

Clea Newman is dedicated to her father Paul Newman's philanthropic vision through SeriousFun, a network of free camps for children with serious illnesses. What began in 1988 as a single camp in Connecticut has grown into a global operation with 30 camps and programs worldwide, having served over 2.5 million children. The organization offers a variety of programs, including summer camps, family weekends, and outreach initiatives, all free of charge.

Paul Newman founded SeriousFun after witnessing the struggles of families with seriously ill children, realizing they missed out on essential childhood experiences. He was driven by a sense of gratitude for his own life's fortune, which he called 'Newman's luck.' Despite initial skepticism, he persevered, surrounding himself with experts and establishing the first camp within 18 months. The network expanded to support children affected by events like the Chernobyl disaster and later became an early provider for children with HIV.

Today, SeriousFun serves children with over 100 illnesses, including mental health conditions like PTSD and anxiety, addressing the post-pandemic rise in such issues. The camps feature customized, accessible activities, from heated swimming pools to adapted zip lines, ensuring no child misses out. Clea Newman, now an ambassador, describes the work as a lifelong pursuit, aiming to fulfill her father's mission to continue providing these vital experiences to children and families who need them most.