In hospitals across America, a charitable organization called Healthy Humor has been revolutionizing the healing process through the power of laughter and light. With their signature Red Nose Docs, this nonprofit has brought immeasurable joy to children in fifteen hospitals and beyond.
Established in 2016, Healthy Humor emerged from the renowned Big Apple Circus, where co-founder and current CEO Dina Paul-Parks served as the Vice-President of Community Programs. Joined by Karen McCarty and Deborah Kaufmann, the trio embarked on a mission to elevate the impact of the Red Nose Docs. Together, their collective experience spans over 60 years, imbuing the organization with expertise and dedication.
While the Red Nose Docs bring smiles to the faces of over 600,000 children, their efforts extend beyond hospital walls. Through their Vaudeville visits, they embark on heartwarming journeys to meet elderly residents in critical care. With their lighthearted personalities and interactions, through laughter and playfulness, they create meaningful connections and bring joy to those who need it most.
Moreover, Red Nose Docs collaborate with healthcare professionals to enhance their interactions with young patients. By sharing invaluable insights, they assist doctors and nurses in establishing emotional connections and alleviating stress for both patients and parents. These invaluable “Docs” provide practical tips to healthcare workers, empowering them to create a positive impact without veering from their professional roles or turning interactions into full-fledged performances.
From hospital rooms to the hearts of the elderly and the expertise shared with healthcare professionals, Healthy Humor’s commitment to spreading joy remains unwavering. Through laughter and compassion, they continue to brighten countless individuals’ lives, reminding us of the healing power of a smile.
In a recent endeavor, Healthy Humor has taken its mission of spreading joy and connection beyond hospital walls. Through its groundbreaking Community Connections program, the organization fostered meaningful relationships between middle school students in Harlem, New York, and local police officers, aiming to bridge communities of color and the police force.
However, Healthy Humor’s impact stretches even further, extending to The Hole In The Wall Gang Camp for the past three decades. This nonprofit collaborates with the camp, which was established by the legendary Paul Newman. This extraordinary summer camp welcomes children battling illnesses and their families, providing them with an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s embrace. With the presence of medical staff and unique resources, the camp strikes a harmonious balance between traditional summer camp activities and necessary medical support.
Healthy Humor’s involvement in these diverse ventures highlights its commitment to fostering connections and bringing laughter to various communities. Whether it’s empowering students and police officers to find common ground or providing joyful experiences for children facing health challenges, the organization continues to create transformative moments and inspire unity through the universal language of laughter.
Healthy Humor and The Hole In The Wall Gang Camp
Nestled within the heart of nature, The Hole In The Wall Gang Camp provides a haven for children facing severe illnesses. Here, they can embark on adventures tailored to their unique needs, such as horseback riding and swimming. Each activity is thoughtfully designed to create lasting memories and cherished moments for these brave children and their families.
Volunteers, including compassionate doctors and nurses, selflessly dedicate their time to ensure these children experience the joy they deserve.
Together, they craft a tapestry of unforgettable moments, bringing smiles and laughter to those facing immense challenges. The camp extends its support beyond the summer months, offering weekend programs and a residential bereavement program for families who have lost a child.
Additionally, the innovative CampOut van takes the essence of camp directly to families’ homes. With a simple request, the van arrives, laden with camp-style activities and outings, delivering the spirit of adventure right to their doorsteps.
Through a natural alliance, Healthy Humor joins forces with The Hole In The Wall Gang Camp, united in their mission to ignite laughter and joy in the lives of these remarkable children and their families.
Recognizing the profound impact of humor, HH Co-Founder and CEO Dina Paul-Parks affirm, “Joy and laughter are not just transformative for the kids and families in our partner hospitals. They are powerful tools for crises beyond the hospital’s walls, and we know that they can help officers and young people to truly see each other, access empathy, build trust, and connect across the divide.”
Together, Healthy Humor and The Hole In The Wall Gang Camp weave laughter into the fabric of these children’s lives, illuminating their journey with hope, resilience, and unwavering support.
Healthy Humor’s Dynamic Future Plans
Looking ahead, Healthy Humor has ambitious plans to extend its impact even further. With a firm commitment to touching the lives of more children and families, the organization intends to establish new chapters in additional cities. This expansion will allow Healthy Humor to reach even more communities, spreading laughter and joy to those who need it most. Furthermore, they are in the process of developing new programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of children and families, ensuring that their positive influence continues to grow and evolve.
For more information, visit healthyhumorinc.org.
