Closing a Milestone Year
As we near the year’s end during this festive season—a time for giving, celebration, and reflection, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable moments Gilda’s Club has experienced. This past year was filled with significant milestones, including the return of our Gala and embarking on our inaugural Walk for Gilda’s, both of which were tremendous successes. It warmed my heart to see our community come together not only to raise funds for Gilda’s but also to demonstrate that united, we are stronger than cancer. To hear the stories of how being a part of Gilda’s Club transformed their lives for the better.
One of Gilda’s Club’s greatest achievements of 2024 is our exciting new direction: as of January 1st, we officially changed our name from Gilda’s Club Twin Cities to Gilda’s Club Minnesota. This change reflects our expansion into communities beyond the Twin Cities and our mission to ensure that no one in our state lacks access to the comprehensive support that Gilda’s provides.
We understand firsthand how crucial support and a strong community is in the lives of our members – statistics show that community involvement greatly influences mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Individuals with strong social connections are 50% more likely to experience better mental health and lower rates of depression and anxiety. Community can extend lifespans, enhance recovery, and provide numerous physical health benefits, a truth I witness daily at Gilda’s Club.
What truly sets Gilda’s apart are our members, who shape this community. Time and again, I hear that Gilda’s is the one place where they can genuinely be themselves, without the need to explain their struggles or pretend everything is fine. Along their journeys, they have formed lifelong relationships grounded in support. This essence of Gilda’s is both beautiful and powerful, motivating me to increase our visibility and funding so we can reach more individuals in need of emotional support.
Your Help is Needed to Finish 2024 Strong—and Start Off 2025 Right
As we celebrate these achievements, we also recognize the challenges ahead. To close 2024 on a strong note, we need your help to bridge a $65,000 gap in our year-end appeal. Looking ahead to 2025, we will need to raise an additional $400,000 to expand our reach and services, ensuring no Minnesotan facing cancer is left without support.
Your contribution today will help us continue to provide vital resources like counseling, support groups, and a welcoming community for everyone navigating cancer.
Looking Ahead: A Thought for Tax Season
As you prepare your taxes in the months to come, remember that charitable giving is not only impactful but also provides tax benefits. If you find yourself in need of another deduction, consider making a donation to Gilda’s Club Minnesota. Every gift brings us closer to ensuring that no Minnesotan facing cancer goes without the support they need.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Gilda’s Club is more than a place—it’s a lifeline. It’s where people find connection, understanding, and the strength to face cancer together. As we close this milestone year, I invite you to be part of our mission.
Please help us reach our year-end goal and bring hope to even more Minnesotans in 2025. Together, we truly are stronger than cancer.
Gratefully,
Gina Parker
Development Associate
612-227-2147 office | 952.767.7623 direct
10560 Wayzata Blvd., Minneapolis, MN 55305
P.S. Save the date for this spring’s gala, Gilda’s Live in ’25, happening April 24th, 2025!
