Dear Friends,
For the past 23 years, I have had the immense privilege to offer direction for this magical and sacred organization in the role of chief executive officer. And, it has been THIRTY-EIGHT extraordinary years that I have been inspired daily by the brave children and families we serve.
I have sometimes wondered when the right time for me would be to step away from Camp. I have neither wanted to “overstay my welcome” nor lack the necessary skills that the Camp needs from an effective CEO. These ruminations have always been fraught, but now, as I ask those same questions, my heart is peaceful. As my mother would say, “timing is everything,” and I know the time is right for me to thank all of you and to retire from Hole in the Wall.
I recently shared my decision with our Board of Directors and my colleagues. Allowing the Board adequate time to reflect on the changing organizational needs for a new CEO while not creating a “long goodbye,” I have proposed my last day will be May 31, 2026. I believe this will provide ample time to ensure a smooth, successful CEO transition.
Some have asked what my plans are for the future – spending more time with my son to savor the years we have left with him at home will be my primary focus and joy.
Every bit of growth that Camp has experienced over the years to serve more children and families in new and deeper ways has given me so much joy and pride, and I am absolutely THRILLED with our current plans to expand Camp’s healing impact into the Mid-Atlantic region. I will elatedly be volunteering at our first Maryland Family Camp in May 2026.
Friends, if I tied my retirement to a moment of quiet, I’d never leave. Camp always should be growing, exploring new ways to bring joy, connection, hope and peace to children with serious illnesses and their loved ones.
The first time I met our Founder Paul Newman, he toasted the summer staff in the dining hall the night before our first campers arrived. He held up a glass of Newman’s Own lemonade and said, “I’ve taken it this far. You take it from here. Raise a little hell.” What an indescribable privilege it has been to be a part of the movement that took it from there. The need for future leaders and champions will never cease as Hole in the Wall carries on Paul’s entrepreneurial spirit to bring healing to those we are so privileged serve. I have been riding that wave for nearly four decades. What a joy, purpose and honor. My heart is filled with gratitude.
I’ve helped to take it this far. You take it from here. Raise a little hell, a lot of joy and even more love.
Most sincerely,
Jimmy