Our Mission
The mission of Gilda's Club Southeastern Wisconsin, Inc. is to ensure that all people impacted by cancer in Greater Milwaukee are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by community.
Our Philosophy
The Gilda’s Club philosophy is predicated on the belief that emotional support is as essential as medical care when cancer is in the family. At Gilda’s Club, individuals touched by cancer, along with their families and friends, learn how to live fully with and beyond a cancer diagnosis. Through a free, accessible, community-based cancer support program, Gilda’s Club reaches people affected by cancer where they live, work and worship.
Background
2011
Gilda's Club opens "Living Room" at Harry and Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center, a warm and welcoming environment where individuals living with cancer meet for education, support, and social activities.
2010
In July, area flooding damage to the Clubhouse and resulting financial issues bring about the closing of Gilda’s Club Southeastern Wisconsin. Weeks later, area businessman Mr. Stanley Kass pledges funds to re-open Gilda’s Club under a decentralized cancer support model.
The new program delivers cancer support and education through healthcare providers, schools, places of worship, social service agencies and neighborhood organizations throughout Greater Milwaukee at no charge to participants.
2009
Gilda’s Club Worldwide and The Wellness Community merge to become the Cancer Support Community, an organization providing psychological and social support through a network of more than 50 affiliate centers and more than 100 satellite locations worldwide.
2004
Gilda’s Club Southeastern Wisconsin opens its doors at 4050 N. Oakland Avenue in Shorewood.
1995
The first Gilda’s Club was founded in memory of Gilda Radner by her husband Gene Wilder, and Joanna Bull, Gilda’s cancer psychotherapist.
When Gilda was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, she turned toThe Wellness Community.
It was her wish that anyone living with cancer could receive this type of support. Wilder and Bull brought her wish to life with Gilda’s Club, a free cancer support community.