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The Heart of Us

The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp is dedicated to providing “a different kind of healing” to children with serious illnesses and their families, free of charge. We are a community that celebrates the spirit of childhood, the sound of laughter and the feeling of endless possibility.

Paul Newman & the Gang
Tree House
HOP

Who we are

The Hole in the Wall Gang Camp was founded in 1988 by Paul Newman to give children with serious illnesses the chance to “raise a little hell.” Through a variety of year-round programs offered onsite, in hospitals and clinics, and right in camper homes and communities, we serve thousands of children and family members each year.

Kids Dancing
Camper & Staff
Ziplining

Impact

There’s no way to measure smiles, but our research and evaluation team works to ensure the safety and happiness of our campers, the smartest use of our funding, and positive outcomes from our programs.

Staff
CEO and Camper
Camp Director and Camper

Our people

Camp is a place of endless possibility – and our staff works hard to keep it that way! Meet the people who come together to make a difference in the lives of thousands of children with serious illnesses.

Latest News

Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang Camp Names Hilary Axtmayer CEO Effective June 1

Former Chief Program Officer Hilary Axtmayer takes over from Jimmy Canton, who is retiring after 23 years as CEO

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Paul Newman’s Hole in the Wall Gang Camp Welcomes First Families to Maryland Location

Maryland location will host eight Family Camps in 2026, serving families of children with cancer, sickle cell disease, rare and ultra-rare conditions

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News & video

Want to see the magic in action? You’ve come to the right place! Check out our recent news and video to see what we’ve been up to lately – and get a taste of the Camp experience.