…Double H Ranch – a SeriousFun Camp

In 2000, our then President, Steve Davidson (who was a pediatric dentist) was well aware of Double H Ranch and the wonderful service they give to children with serious illnesses. He approached the Club to see if we wanted to adopt the Ranch as our local charity. After a presentation at one of our meetings by a representative of Double H, the Cub agreed that this camp was well worth our support. It was decided that the Club’s portion of the 50/50 and profit from our Cruise-In’s would go directly to this charity. The Club has also participated in Spring and Fall clean-up days and some special events put on by Double H.

If you’re not aware of the particulars, the Double H Ranch was co-founded by Charles R. Wood and Paul Newman, and provides specialized programs and year-round support for children and their families dealing with life-threatening illnesses. The purpose is to enrich their lives and provide camp experiences that are memorable, exciting, fun, empowering, physically safe and medically sound. All programs are FREE of charge and capture the magic of the Adirondacks.

The Double H Ranch, located in New York’s Adirondack Park, is a demonstration of the commitment and generosity of philanthropist Charles R. Wood and actor Paul Newman. Since the Ranch officially opened its doors on July 4, 1993, it has served over 20,000 children dealing with life-threatening illnesses from around the world. It was the second “Hole in the Wall Camp” in what has become a worldwide network of not-for-profit recreational and therapeutic experiences for children with serious illness.

In 1991, entrepreneur Charley Wood purchased the 320-acre Hidden Valley Ranch property with the intention of expanding the original concept of the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp to his beloved Adirondacks. Mr. Wood, a long-time supporter of the arts and medicine, drew his inspiration from the Connecticut camp started by Mr. Newman in 1988, and enlisted Mr. Newman’s support to help create the Double H Ranch. Renovations and upgrades to the property were carried out to fashion it into a medically state-of-the-art, accessible facility. Since his death in 2004, Double H has become a testament to Mr. Wood’s vision. In fact, an H-shaped tree on the property is a lasting reminder of his commitment to the “health and happiness” of others. Mr. Newman served as Honorary Chairman of the Board of Directors at the Double H Ranch until his death in 2008.