ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Atlantic City's historic World War I Monument will be illuminated in pink Thursday, Oct. 1, as residents come together for a community walk and an evening dedicated to breast cancer awareness, support and remembrance.
The event, organized by Councilwoman Maria Lacca and The PARRUCCHE Garbiere Wigs Studio, will mark the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a message of hope for survivors, individuals living with metastatic breast cancer, caregivers and families.
The "Walk Around the Park and Lighting of the WWI Monument in Pink" will begin at 6 p.m. at the monument in Atlantic City's Chelsea University District.
Participants will walk around the park before gathering for the ceremonial lighting of the monument at 7 p.m.
Organizers are encouraging residents to wear pink, bring family and friends, and participate in the free community gathering.
"You Are Not Alone"
The evening's central message is "YOU ARE NOT ALONE," emphasizing the importance of community support for people facing breast cancer.
"We want every person touched by breast cancer to see an entire community standing beside them," said Michael Anthony Paolercio of The PARRUCCHE Garbiere Wigs Studio.
"This evening is about more than lighting a monument pink. It is about coming together with faith, courage, strength and hope—and reminding survivors, patients, caregivers and families that they never have to walk alone."
The monument lighting will serve as a visual tribute to those who have survived breast cancer, those currently undergoing treatment, individuals living with metastatic disease and those who have lost their lives to the illness.
Organizers hope the gathering will bring together residents, health care professionals, cancer-care organizations, advocates and community leaders.
Community Resources, Food Trucks and Entertainment
In addition to the walk and monument lighting, the event will feature food trucks and entertainment, creating an opportunity for neighbors and families to gather in support of breast cancer awareness.
Health care institutions and community organizations are being invited to participate by providing educational materials, patient resources and information about available support services.
A community resource table will be available to attendees.
The PARRUCCHE Garbiere Wigs Studio specializes in medically related hair-loss solutions, cranial hair prosthetics and post-mastectomy products and services.
The studio also supports individuals and families through community outreach, education and initiatives intended to help people maintain confidence while navigating medical treatment and recovery.
A Historic Atlantic City Landmark Turns Pink
The World War I Monument, located in O'Donnell Memorial Park, is one of Atlantic City's most recognizable historic landmarks.
The monument's illumination in pink will provide a symbolic start to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is observed nationally throughout October.
Organizers say the event is intended to recognize people at every stage of their experience with breast cancer, from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship, caregiving and remembrance.
The gathering is open to residents, visitors, families and anyone who wishes to show support for those affected by the disease.
Event Details
Community event · Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Walk Around the Park & Lighting of the WWI Monument in Pink
Thursday, October 1, 2026
6 p.m. community walk · 7 p.m. monument lighting
World War I Monument
O'Donnell Memorial Park, Chelsea University District, Atlantic City
Hosted by
Councilwoman Maria Lacca and The PARRUCCHE Garbiere Wigs Studio
Also featuring
Food trucks, entertainment and community health resources. Attendees are encouraged to wear pink.
The event's message is simple: Whether someone is undergoing treatment, celebrating survivorship, supporting a loved one or remembering someone lost to breast cancer, the Atlantic City community wants them to know they are not alone.
