Noogieland

Gilda said that when cancer happens, it happens to the whole family. That's why Noogieland, the Gilda's Club children's program, is designed to meet the specific needs of children touched by cancer. Its name is a humorous reference to a bit of Gilda Radner's old Saturday Night Live comedy. It's just silly enough to make perfect sense to children whether or not they know about Gilda.

As Noogieland members, children are full and equal members of the Gilda's Club community. Children who have a loved one living with cancer or who are grieving the death of a loved one, and children who have cancer themselves can talk about their feelings as they participate in various activities including arts & crafts, story time, hello circle, Small Talk, and more. Supervised by a licensed social worker and specially trained volunteers, Noogieland provides a comfortable environment for children to share their feelings and build support.

Weekly Noogie Nights are scheduled at the same time as many of adult support groups, lectures, and workshops, allowing families to visit Gilda's Club together and fulfilling our mission of Cancer Support for the Whole Family, the Whole Time.

For older kids, we offer Teen Night, a monthly gathering of teenagers who enjoy pizza, board games, pool, air hockey, and a chance to share with each other the impact cancer has had on their lives.

In addition to Noogie Nights and Teen Night, GCWNY offers many special events for kids and their families throughout the year including Noogiefest, our annual Halloween Party, a Valentine's Party, Family Fun Days, and Camp Sparkle.

For more information, contact Shelly Marabella, Coordinator of Children's Programs at 716-332-5900 ext. 206.

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