Join the Gilda’s Club Chicago Winter Challenge
Winter can feel long, quiet, and isolating, especially for people impacted by cancer. At Gilda’s Club Chicago, we know that staying connected, even in small ways, can make a big difference.
That’s why we’re inviting members to take part in our Beat the Winter Blues Challenge, running January 2 through February 28, 2026. This low-pressure challenge is designed to encourage participation in Gilda’s Club programming, inspire members to try something new, and help everyone stay engaged during the winter months.
Ready to accept the challenge? Sign up!
What Is the Beat the Winter Blues Challenge?
The Beat the Winter Blues Challenge is a fun and supportive way to stay connected to Gilda’s Club Chicago this winter. By attending activities, lectures, and special events, members can earn points and chances to win a prize while building routine, connection, and community.
Members are encouraged to participate in ways that feel right for them and challenge themselves to try new activities.
How the Challenge Works
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Sign Up
Members begin by signing up for the challenge through a short online form. -
Track Your Progress
After signing up, participants will receive an email with a link to track activities and points throughout the challenge. -
Attend Activities
Attend Gilda’s Club Chicago activities between January 2 and February 28. Both virtual and in-person activities count, unless otherwise noted within the challenge category. -
Log Your Activities
Use the tracking link to log activities and earn points. -
Earn Chances to Win
The more points earned, the greater the chance to win.
Ways to Earn Points
Participants can earn points in five different categories:
- Try a New-to-You Healthy Lifestyle Activity
5 points per activity, up to 3 activities (15 points max) - Update Your Member Profile
5 points, one time - Attend an Educational Lecture
3 points per lecture, up to 2 lectures (6 points max) - Attend an Activity In Person
2 points per activity, up to 5 activities (10 points max) - Attend a Saturday LIVE!
10 points per event, up to 2 events (20 points max)
The more points you accumulate, the more chances you have to win! (1 point = 1 entry into the raffle)
Prize Details
While we will be giving away a prize at the end of the challenge, everyone wins when it comes to community and connection! If you are interested in winning, one winner will be selected via raffle and announced in mid-March.
The winner will receive:
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A $50 Gilda’s Club Chicago Merch Store gift card
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A Gilda’s Club Chicago swag bag
Why Participate?
This challenge isn’t about competition — it’s about connection. Whether you join a familiar class, attend a lecture, or try something new for the first time, every step you take helps strengthen the Gilda’s Club Chicago community.
Winter can be hard. You don’t have to go through it alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate in the challenge?
The Beat the Winter Blues Challenge is open to all current Gilda’s Club Chicago members. Not a current member? Start here.
Do I have to participate in every category?
No. You can participate in as many or as few categories as you like. Every activity counts and points add up based on the activities you choose to do.
Can I still join if I miss the start date?
Yes. Members may join at any point during the challenge period – even if they have already attended activities that can count towards the challenge. Activities must take place between January 2 and February 28, 2026 to count.
Do virtual activities count?
Yes. Both virtual and in-person activities count unless a category specifically notes otherwise.
What counts as a “new-to-you” healthy lifestyle activity?
A new-to-you healthy lifestyle activity is any healthy lifestyle class you have not attended before, such as yoga, meditation, cooking demonstrations, movement classes, or other wellness offerings.
How do I track my points?
After signing up, you’ll receive an email with a link to a simple tracking form where you can log your activities.
Will you double check my challenge tracker?
Yes, GCC staff will be checking your challenge tracker against the information we have through our CRM. It’s important that you register and check-in for each activity you attend, so we can verify.
What if I forget to log an activity right away?
That’s okay. You can log activities throughout the challenge period using the tracking link.
How is the winner selected?
Each point earned equals one entry. The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
When will the winner be announced?
The winner will be announced in mid-March 2026.
Is there any cost to participate?
No. Participation in the Beat the Winter Blues Challenge is free.
Ready to Join?
Sign up today and join us in beating the winter blues — together.
Community is Stronger Than Cancer.