Jake is a teen with Down syndrome. Jake is seen here wearing is favorite team hat - Purdue University!

Dash Team Highlight: Jammin’ with Jake

Who inspired this team and what makes them EXTRA awesome? Everyone who has met Jake knows that he is the Dude in our family. He has reminded us that individuals with Down syndrome are more alike than different and he is happy to show you how. What is your favorite...
Emme is a girl with Down syndrome shown at the apple orchard

Dash Team Highlight: Emme’s Super Sprinters

Who inspired this team and what makes them EXTRA awesome? Emme is a compassionate, determined, fun-loving 6 year old. She loves her family, animals, books and music. She makes every day brighter just by being in it! What is your favorite part of attending programs and events at GiGi's Milwaukee?...
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Dash Team Highlight: Milwaukee Playhouse Team – Grace!

Who inspired this team and what makes them EXTRA awesome? Grace is courageous and funny. What is your favorite part of attending programs and events at GiGi's Milwaukee? Having fun! What does acceptance mean to you and how do you want to encourage our community (and the world) to be...
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Dash Team Highlight: Sam’s Superheroes

Who inspired this team and what makes them EXTRA awesome? Sam has inspired our team. He's 8 years old, tenacious, outgoing, and hilarious. We're so blessed to have someone with an extra chromosome in our family. Life is never dull! What is your favorite part of attending programs and events...
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Dash Team Highlight: Fighting Peanut!

Who inspired this team and what makes them EXTRA awesome? Madeline, or Maddie, is the EXTRA amazing inspiration for this team. She is lovingly referred to as Peanut by her family. In the short 8 months that she has been on this planet, she has already had 3 surgeries, including...
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A Deeper Understanding of Down Syndrome

Down syndrome, a genetic condition, is often misunderstood. Each individual with Down syndrome is unique, with their own strengths, talents and personalities. Learn more about the different types and characteristics of people born with DS including some FAQs about interacting with individuals with Down syndrome. What is Down Syndrome? Down...

Dash Team Highlight: Max’s Maniacs

Who inspired this team and what makes them EXTRA awesome? Max is our awesome 6 yo who happens to rock that extra chromosome! He’s charming, energetic, smart, and definitely a maniac! He makes our world a better place every single day! What is your favorite part of attending programs and...
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Join Us for the GiGi’s Playhouse Dash for Down Syndrome: A Celebration of Diversity and Inclusion

At GiGi's Playhouse, we're all about celebrating differences, fostering inclusivity, and empowering individuals with Down syndrome and other disabilities to reach their fullest potential. One of the most exciting events on our calendar is the Milwaukee Dash for Down Syndrome (part of the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge) on May 5, 2024, and here's why it's...
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Health Aging & Alzheimer’s Disease in the Down Syndrome Community

GiGi’s Playhouse MKE hosted a FREE Health Aging & Alzheimer’s Disease in the DS Community (virtual) presentation event on Feb. 21st. The event was led by Dr. Sigan Hartley and Dr. Brad Christian from the Waisman Center at UW-Madison to address the significant impact that Alzheimer’s Disease has and continues...
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Join Us for the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee!

Are you ready to make a positive impact while having fun and staying active? Look no further than GiGi's Playhouse Milwaukee's GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge or as we call it the Dash for Down Syndrome -happening on Sunday, May 5th! This event promises an exciting day filled with fitness, camaraderie, and most...
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Empowering Lives: GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee and UW-Milwaukee Join Forces

In the heart of Milwaukee, an inspiring collaboration between GiGi's Playhouse and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) is unfolding, marked by a commitment to support and empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Thanks to a long-standing connection with Ben Trager, who works for the university’s Center for Student...
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Volunteer Spotlight: Giovanna, a High School Student

Giovanna Pierri is the President of Nicolet High School’s ”Feed the Need Club.” She coordinated all of the volunteers for both the Glow Party (12/29/2023) and Noon Years Eve event (12/31/203) and will also be supporting GiGi’s at several upcoming events, including the DSAW/GiGi’s Talent Show collaboration scheduled for 3/23/2024...