Celebrating Two Decades of Service and Impact

More than 20 years ago, when six Louisville cancer survivors founded Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana, they envisioned something radically different from the clinical environments where so much of the cancer journey unfolds.

They imagined a place where people of all ages facing cancer—and those who love and care for them—could feel safe, let down their guard, build meaningful connections, and rediscover moments of hope, comfort, and even laughter. For nearly 20 years, volunteer interior designer Chad Cobb has helped turn that vision into reality.

An interior designer with Bittners, Chad has been one of Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana’s most dedicated volunteers. Through his professional expertise, creativity, and generous spirit, he has donated his time and talent to help shape clubhouses and gathering spaces that embody our mission while offering comfort, connection, and a true sense of home for thousands of individuals and families facing cancer.

Chad’s involvement began at the very beginning, serving as the volunteer designer for Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana’s first clubhouse on Baxter Avenue, which opened in 2007. His thoughtful design established the welcoming atmosphere that has become a hallmark of Gilda’s Club—a refuge where individuals and families facing cancer can find support, friendship, and community during some of life’s most difficult moments.

Why Chad Chose to Volunteer at Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana

Chad’s volunteer service is deeply personal. After losing his father to cancer, he understands firsthand the impact the disease has on individuals and families. That experience inspired his long-standing commitment to giving back by creating spaces where people can find support, comfort, and connection.

Supporting Signature Events and Organizational Growth

Over the years, Chad’s contributions have reached nearly every corner of our organization. He served for several years on the Gilda’s Night Committee and continues to help ensure our Grinstead clubhouse looks its best for our annual gala. He also helped launch our first Night of a Thousand Laughs, serving as an instrumental member of the event committee for many years.

As Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana expanded its footprint and service area, Chad once again stepped forward. He donated his time and expertise as the designer for our Highlands clubhouse (Gilda’s Grinstead), downtown suite at the Republic Bank Foundation YMCA (Gilda’s West), and both Southern Indiana locations (Gilda’s Clark and Gilda’s Floyd). His work helped ensure that every new location reflected the warmth, hope, and sense of community at the heart of our mission.

A Trusted Volunteer and Community Partner

Tonya Cook, Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana’s Senior Vice President, shared her appreciation for Chad’s extraordinary service:  “Beyond these major projects, Chad remains someone we all know we can count on. Whether providing CAD drawings, event layouts, design advice, or guidance on new projects, he is always willing to answer the call. Most recently, he visited the clubhouse to provide input and recommendations for a new Reiki and Relaxation Room, continuing his tradition of helping us enhance the experience of those we serve. What makes Chad especially appreciated is not only his talent, but also the genuine care he brings to every interaction. We all love working with him and are deeply grateful for his ongoing advice, support, and partnership. His generosity, kindness, and willingness to help have made him an invaluable part of our Gilda’s family.”

Volunteers Like Chad Make Our Mission Possible

Chad’s legacy is visible throughout Gilda’s Club Kentuckiana—in the welcoming spaces he has helped create, the signature events he has helped shape, and the countless lives touched by his generosity. His volunteer service is a lasting reminder that sharing your talents can make a meaningful difference for people facing cancer and those who care for them.