Causes: Cancer, Diseases of Specific Organs, Health, Mental Health, Mental Health & Crisis Intervention, Pediatrics

Mission: The mission is to create opportunities for children with serious illnesses and their families to reach beyond illness and discover joy, confidence and a new world of possibilities, always free of charge.

Results: - 30 camps and programs worldwide and growing;- 75,000 children and families served in 2013;- 518,000 children and families from more than 50 countries served since 1988;- 20,000 volunteers served children and families in 2013;A 2012-2013 evaluation of SeriousFun parents and children by the Yale School of Medicine found that children with serious illnesses who attend camp showed improved confidence, higher self-esteem, a greater sense of independence and increased interest in social activities. The study also revealed that children’s stress related to their illness decreased as a result of the camp experience.

Target demographics: for children with serious illnesses and their families.

Direct beneficiaries per year: 75,000 children and families

Geographic areas served: International

Programs: Each SeriousFun camp is an independent, not-for-profit organization dependent upon private funding to serve children free of charge. SeriousFun programming and facilities are skillfully adapted to fit the different cultures and medical conditions of campers. Every attempt is made to be inclusive and accessible. Through its Global Partnership Program, SeriousFun also collaborates with international organizations to deliver the camp experience to children with illnesses in resouce-limited locations. The medical expertise at camps enable more than 50 different types of conditions to be supported, including cancer, HIV, blood disorders, heart diseases and severe asthma. Through intentional programming delivered through camp and outreach programs, children are empowered to reach beyond the barriers of their conditions to build connections and foster resilience.