A new home for hope and connection: The War Memorial forms partnership with Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit
GROSSE POINTE FARMS June 25, 2025 – Beginning July 1, a new partnership will take root at The War Memorial as Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit establishes permanent office space and offers community programming at the historic lakefront campus. This expansion ensures continued access to vital support and resources for individuals and families impacted by cancer—right in the heart of the Eastside community.
“We are thrilled to welcome Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit as our newest in-house partner at The War Memorial,” said Nikki Charbonneau, chief operating officer. “Having their home office on-site and hosting their impactful community programming here strengthens our mission of service to the community. We are proud to now include cancer support among our growing list of community resources—ensuring that hope, healing, and connection have a home here for all who need it.”
The War Memorial will now serve as one of “Gilda’s Around Town” locations, continuing its legacy of support for the greater Eastside community. This site joins Gilda’s Club’s broader regional network, which includes the Gilda’s Clubhouse in Royal Oak and their Detroit-based programs at the Durfee Innovation Society.
Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit, an affiliate of The Cancer Support Community, works to uplift and strengthen people impacted by cancer by providing support, fostering compassionate communities, and breaking down barriers to care.
“There’s an untapped need for us to serve the greater Eastside community,” said Gilda’s Club Executive Director Laura Varon Brown. “The War Memorial has been incredibly welcoming. It’s great to have a fresh start in this community and in a new facility.”
She adds that Gilda’s Club is considered the “what next” step in a cancer diagnosis.
“Our backbone is support groups where you are around peers who have experienced or are experiencing the same things you are,” she said. “We help people find the best tools to navigate for their family, whether it be medical, mental health or financial tools.”
Starting July 9, Gilda’s Club will begin hosting weekly programs at The War Memorial every Wednesday. These include peer-to-peer support groups, family-focused sessions, and public education events—all free of charge.
Hosting Gilda’s Club @ The War Memorial is a powerful reflection of the community spirit that defines The War Memorial’s mission every day. As a community and cultural center, it serves as a cornerstone for connection—linking individuals with vital resources. In this case, to provide a peaceful and welcoming space where those affected by cancer can find the support they need, when they need it most.
This collaboration joins a growing list of nonprofit partners housed at The War Memorial, including The Family Center of Grosse Pointe & Harper Woods, the Grosse Pointe Artists Association, and the Grosse Pointe Garden Center.
To learn more about The War Memorial, visit warmemorial.org. To register for Gilda’s Club programming at The War Memorial, visit gildasclubdetroit.org.
About The War Memorial
The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is an experiential space open to everyone. For over 75 years, this nonprofit organization has served as a patriotic, cultural, and community center, offering a wide range of innovative programs for all ages. Annually, The War Memorial welcomes thousands of guests for community events, educational programming, and private gatherings in its unique and historic setting.
At its core, The War Memorial celebrates the ideas of American democracy while honoring those who have defended these ideals with tireless effort and personal sacrifice. As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to inspiring and enriching the community through unparalleled experiences. This includes a steadfast commitment to patriotic programming that honors the legacy of service members and amplifies the voices of veterans through storytelling, education, and public engagement.
###
CONTACT:
Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Patriotic Programming and Communications Administrator
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org