About HopeClub
About the American Cancer Society HopeClub
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret MeadIn 1995, a small group of determined women from the Junior League of Albany, with later support from their counterparts in the Troy and Schenectady Junior Leagues, embraced a dream. They dreamed that one day there would be a warm and welcoming place where men, women and children with cancer – along with their families and friends – could create a cancer support community. They dreamed of a place where people whose lives are touched by cancer could join with others in similar life circumstances to learn to live with cancer, no matter what outcome. They gave of their time, talents, their treasures and most of all, their hearts, to make their dream come true. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity from their friends and supporters, they made the dream of Gilda’s Club Capital Region New York a reality.
Founding Development Committee from the Junior League of Albany:
Alyce Ashe
Maryann Riviello Brennan
Claudia Carroll
Christine Farnan
Lindy Flanagan
Carrie Hedderman
Peggy Jacobsen
Ann MacAffer
Amanda Myers
Bobbie Pearce
Rebecca Silvestri
Camie Stasior
Kelly Waechter
In 2010, the latest chapter was written as Gilda's Club of the Capital Region became the first-ever American Cancer Society HopeClub. It's a new name and affiliation, but the mission remans the same and the spirit of community and mutual support that members have built at One Penny Lane will not change one bit. Additionally, HopeClub serves as the hub of all the American Cancer Society’s patient and family service programs in the Capital Region. Programs are open to cancer survivors, their families and friends – anyone who has been touched by cancer. For more information please call 518-220-6960.