Happy Hearts Celebrate GiGi’s First Anniversary

On February 2nd, the Playhouse was packed with the happy hearts in our brand new friends, returning participants, family members, volunteers and supporters; all celebrating the first anniversary of  GiGi’s Playhouse Annapolis’ Grand Opening. We are thankful for the warm welcome from the greater-Annapolis community.

In its first year, individuals with Down syndrome participated in over 2,300 hours of programs and activities.  Families, community members, and participants enjoyed over 6,100 hours of GiGi’s programs and events, and the Playhouse has benefitted from over 5,000 hours of volunteerism!

A “Generation G” Youth Board of peers from local area high schools who help spread awareness of Down syndrome and raise funds for the Playhouse was launched. Many partnerships have developed in the last year: the GAP is now offering internships in retail, the All Children’s Chorus of Annapolis has joined with GiGi’s to perform holiday carols at the GAP and, more recently, taught the group songs that were then performed in a mini-concert.  Relationships have been nurtured through events such as tailgating with the University of MD football team, a summer night cheering on the Bowie Baysox, touring the White House, practicing literacy skills by reading to Caring Canines, eating breakfast with Santa, and lots of singing and dancing!

The Playhouse’s first big fundraiser in February 2018 set the tone for a spirited year with unbridled enthusiasm.  Frequent, smaller fund raisers at local restaurants are popular and bring together the Annapolis GiGi’s family for dinner out while spreading awareness.  Watch GiGi’s website and social media (Facebook & Instagram) for announcements.

The Playhouse’s first year in Annapolis was definitely a time to celebrate accomplishments. Chocolate and vanilla ice cream donated by Bruster’s Annapolis, face painting donated by Crystalooney’s Creative Arts, skilled creations by our very own Youth Board member Camille, festive cupcakes topped with GiGi’s signature “G”, balloons and singing led by friends of GiGi’s Kimberly Barker from Barker Studios360 and her daughters were followed by spontaneous karaoke enjoyed by many!

 

“All I can say is Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! My daughter has LOVED everyone she has met and enjoys every minute she is at the Playhouse”, gushed Susan, a participant’s parent.

 

 

 

 

What a year of growth, doubling their therapeutic programs and adding 1 on 1 literacy tutoring. New community partnerships continue to be built. The Playhouse team continues to provide free programs to individuals with Down syndrome from birth through adulthood as they pursue the mission of changing the way the world views Down syndrome. Join GiGi’s Playhouse as a participant, volunteer or supporter, as they continue on their journey spreading the vision of global acceptance for all!

“I appreciate so much that our young adults are being exposed to all of these different forms of exercise and just fun experiences.  Thank you for all of the amazing work you’re doing.  Having GiGi’s in our area is truly enriching the lives of our wonderful population.” Lisa, GiGi’s participant’s parent

GiGi’s Playhouse Annapolis is hosting their largest fundraiser of the year, GiGi’s Masquerade Gala on March 9^th, 7-11pm at The Byzantium in Annapolis.

It will be an evening filled with delectable food, dancing, a fabulous auction and lots of inspiration! (21+ event)

Purchase tickets by midnight, March 4, 2019 at this link.