Bellaggio Chapter Story

It all began with a tea.

A simple tea.

On October 25, 2003, the Bellaggio Cancer Research Unit was launched, planting the seeds of what would become the Bellaggio Chapter of The Pap Corps.

Two women, each inspired by a desire to raise awareness and support cancer research in her own way, found one another—and together, a movement began.

Margie Ginsberg brought an infectious enthusiasm that inspired everyone she met. Shirley Grodnitzy contributed exceptional organizational skills and a determination to turn an idea into reality. They faced challenges that would have discouraged many. Bellaggio was a brand-new community. The clubhouse had only recently opened its doors. There were no established communication channels, no email lists, no website, and no social media to spread the word.

Undeterred, they rolled up their sleeves, organized an afternoon tea, and personally reached out to their new neighbors. Their enthusiasm proved contagious.

The afternoon's success was no accident. Bellaggio's very first Membership Tea, held in the new clubhouse, brought together residents and leaders who shared a common purpose.

The Bellaggio Cancer Research Unit was honored to welcome two distinguished guests from The Pap Corps: President Gloria Berkowitz and Past President Elinor Calvin, whose presence underscored the importance of the organization's mission. Working behind the scenes was Claire Serof, the new chapter's advisor, whose guidance and encouragement were instrumental in making that first Membership Tea such a memorable success.

By the end of the afternoon, 153 residents had become members.

As the afternoon drew to a close, it was clear that this new chapter had found not only its members, but also its leaders. Joanie Wolfe and Jackie Grossmann enthusiastically stepped forward to serve as the Bellaggio Chapter's first Co-Presidents, establishing a tradition of volunteer leadership that continues today.

What began with a simple tea had become something much larger—a community united by hope, compassion, and a shared commitment to supporting cancer research. It was the beginning of a legacy that continues to make a difference today.

And here we are, nearly twenty-three years later.

What began with 153 members has grown to nearly four times that number. Over more than two decades, the Bellaggio Chapter has held countless successful events, worked hard, had plenty of fun, and, along the way, made lifelong friendships—all while sharing a common purpose: raising awareness, giving of ourselves, and raising money for The Pap Corps and cancer research.

There are so many people to thank. Over the years, countless Bellaggio women—and men—have stepped up to volunteer their time and energy, contribute their talents, and open their hearts and wallets. Together, they have helped the Bellaggio Chapter raise millions of dollars for cancer research.

And we've certainly had fun doing it.

Our events have included Reverse Trick or Treat, golf tournaments, Spring Blings and boutiques, Secret Cinemas, Book & Author events, card parties, and so much more.

Our fundraising programs and initiatives have included BirthdayGrams, Coins for the Cure, Tribute Cards, umbrellas, bows, our beautiful ad journal, and so much more.

Each event, program, and initiative has brought our community together in its own special way. But behind every event, every dollar raised, and every successful year are the people of Bellaggio—volunteers who believed that what they could do together could make a difference.