A letter to the community from Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids
greer@wktv.org
On February 15, 2001, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids officially opened its red door for the very first time.
That door represented more than a new space, it represented a mission. A mission that no one in our community would have to navigate cancer on their own.
Today, we proudly celebrate 25 years of carrying that mission forward.
What began years earlier as a grassroots effort was led by local cancer survivors who knew firsthand what was missing in West Michigan. In the spring of 1996, Caroline “Twink” Frey recognized the need for emotional support beyond medical care and rallied the community to help bring Gilda’s Club to Grand Rapids. Joined by fellow survivors Deb Bailey and Susan Smith, and with the support of generous donors and partner organizations that vision became a reality when our doors opened on February 15, 2001.
In the years that followed, we listened as our community’s needs evolved, expanding our mission to include support for individuals and families grieving a death from any cause as well.
For 25 years, Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids has remained committed to making emotional support accessible to all, at no cost. That commitment is only possible because of the generosity of our community.
To honor this milestone, we invite you to consider a $25 gift in celebration of 25 years, a simple way to help ensure the red door remains open for anyone who needs support, today and in the years ahead.
Over the past 25 years, our clubhouse has welcomed more than 550,000 visits. Each visit represents a life touched through programs designed for all ages, including support groups led by licensed professionals, educational opportunities, shared meals, social activities, and healthy lifestyle programs. With hundreds of events each month, there truly is something for everyone, including public events that invite the broader community to connect.
For 25 years, Gilda’s Club has been a place of understanding, connection, and belonging for individuals and families navigating some of life’s hardest moments.
As we reflect on this milestone, we honor the vision of our founders, the courage of our members, the dedication of our staff and volunteers, and the generosity of a community that has made this work possible for a quarter century.
Because of you, the red door is still open.
With gratitude,
Your Friends at Gilda’s Club
