Who We Are

Overview

Who We Are

Group enjoying lake hughes

We believe all children should be able to experience the joys of childhood and the profound, life-long impact of camp. The Painted Turtle staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and supporters work year-round to give children with serious medical conditions the chance just to be kids in a safe and inclusive environment. Thousands of campers and family members come together each year to sing, dance, laugh, grow and discover their potential in a community of people who have shared experiences.

Overview

Diversity & Inclusion
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Sustainability

A collage of images of campers having fun at The Painted Turtle

The Painted Turtle’s core values are the foundation for (at the heart of) how we uplift and empower campers, volunteers, staff, and our entire community. We strive to create safe and inclusive spaces that foster a sense of belonging in every facet of our work, and honor the diverse perspectives that every Painted Turtle member brings to the table. We commit to doing our best, while continuing to learn and grow, knowing that this work never ends.

Overview

Mission, Vision, Values

A collage of images of campers enjoying The Painted Turtle

Mission

The mission of The Painted Turtle is to provide a year-round, life-changing environment and authentic camp experience for children with chronic and life-threatening illnesses. The Painted Turtle supports children’s medical needs, inspires them to reach beyond their illnesses, and provides care, education, and respite for their families. All campers and families attend completely free of charge.

Overview

Our Story

From left to right: Page Adler, Gil Friesen, Mary Brown, Lou Adler, Tony Ressler, Jami Gertz, Paul Newman, and Bruce Willis – May 22, 2004

The Painted Turtle began as a dream in 1999 when Paul Newman and Page Adler, along with a group of other dedicated individuals, co-founded The Painted Turtle to let kids with medical conditions just be kids. Through the ongoing commitment of these individuals, many of whom sit on our board today, the dream of The Painted Turtle became a reality. Located just outside of Los Angeles in Lake Hughes, California, The Painted Turtle has served tens of thousands of children and families since opening in 2004.

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Founders & Board of Directors

The Painted Turtle Board Members

The Painted Turtle was founded by a remarkable group of business men and women, philanthropists, and families. Beginning with Page and Lou Adler and Paul Newman, the generosity of the following Founders has helped to make the dream of creating a life-changing environment for children with serious medical conditions a reality.

Overview

Advisory Board

The Painted Turtle is grateful for the many individuals who give of their time and talents to serve on our Advisory Boards to help guide decisions, raise funds and spread awareness about Camp.

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Camp Stories
Feel the Magic

The Painted Turtle is a strong and resilient community made up of unique individuals and families. Read from our rotating collection of stories and feel the magic of Camp, see the special bonds created, and the impact people make both at Camp and in the world. 

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Camp News

Find out the latest news from Camp. Here you find updates from Camp, coverage from fundraising events, and inspiring stories from our campers, volunteers, and supporters!

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Photos & Video

Featured photos and videos to help capture the magic of Camp. Get a sense of what The Painted Turtle looks like in action!

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Contact Us

Directions to the campsite.

Please note that ALL camp visitors must contact a staff member to schedule a visit ahead of time. Unannounced visitors will NOT be allowed on the grounds.

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General FAQs
What is The Painted Turtle?

The Painted Turtle is a year-round medical specialty camp for children who have serious medical conditions. All campers and their families attend free of charge.

Through our condition-specific, week-long Summer Sessions and Fall and Spring Family Weekends, children have the opportunity to learn new strategies of medical self-care, increase their confidence, and build supportive friendships with peers who have the same medical conditions.