For more than 20 years the Rosloniec family has been the heart of Noogiefest, the annual Halloween gathering held at Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids. The event, which blends costumes, games and community spirit, has become a staple for families coping with cancer and grief in the area.

Two decades of service

Christina Rosloniec helped launch Noogiefest in 2004, and together with her husband Michael she has overseen its growth from a modest party for a handful of children to a large‑scale celebration that now welcomes dozens of families each October. “When I first started doing this party, our children were literally in strollers and diapers,” Christina recalled. “Then they got a little older and could run around just like all of these kids. Then they got old enough and were volunteering every year.”

The Rosloniecs watched the event evolve alongside their own family. “These kids that were little running around are now bringing their own children,” Christina added, highlighting the multigenerational impact of the tradition.

Gilda’s Club mission

Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids provides free support services for people and families navigating cancer and grief. The organization’s welcoming atmosphere was underscored by longtime member Mary‑Jo Miedema, a multiple‑time cancer survivor who turned to the club after a second diagnosis. “When I was diagnosed with cancer for the second time, I came to Gilda’s and joined one of the support groups,” she said. “Through that support group, I just had amazing friendships. It was a phenomenal support.” Miedema emphasized that the club is not a sad place, even though it addresses serious issues.

Final Noogiefest and looking ahead

This Saturday’s celebration marked the Rosloniecs’ last Noogiefest as organizers. “It just seemed like it was probably the right time after two decades,” Christina said. Michael echoed the sentiment, adding, “And kind of have the ability to experience what we got to experience with Gilda’s would be wonderful for someone else also.” The couple hopes that new volunteers will step forward to keep the tradition alive for future generations.

Noogiefest remains a vital community event, offering a safe, festive environment for children and families while reinforcing the supportive network that Gilda’s Club provides. As the Rosloniecs step back, the club and its volunteers are already planning how to sustain the celebration’s spirit.

Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.