Meet Wilder – The Face of 2025’s ‘i have a voice’ Gala

This year, we are thrilled to introduce you to Wilder, the shining face of this year’s ‘i have a voice’ Gala! At just 5 years old, Wilder already has a remarkable journey filled with joy, resilience, and milestones that inspire everyone who knows him.

Wilder has been coming to GiGi’s Playhouse since he was only six months old, and it has truly become a special place for him and his family. Over the years, he has grown surrounded by friendship, encouragement, and love. He especially lights up whenever the therapy dogs visit because to Wilder, every dog is a friend, and they seem to feel the same way about him! Whether it’s playing in the sensory room, joining handwriting classes, staying active in GiGiFIT, or discovering his passion for music through LMNOP, GiGi’s has been a place where Wilder learns, grows, and socializes. Most of all, he loves all the friendships he’s made—all of his pals from GiGi’s are such an important part of his world.
Outside of GiGi’s, Wilder is an active and adventurous little boy. He joined a local swim team this summer and, with a little support, swam his way to 3rd place finishes in multiple heats, showing that determination and courage go a long way in and out of the water. He also loves riding on the back of his dad’s tandem bike, where he waves proudly to everyone they pass and sings his favorite songs at the top of his lungs. And when it comes to airplanes, Wilder never misses one—spotting them in the sky is one of his favorite things.

Every day, Wilder works so hard to break barriers and reach new milestones. Thanks to dedicated therapies and teachers, he is mostly potty trained, can count to 30, knows his ABCs, can write all the letters in his name, and can speak in full sentences. He even has a killer leftie throwing arm that makes everyone think he’s destined for the baseball field.
Music, though, might just be his biggest passion. GiGi’s LMNOP music therapy classes sparked that love when he was little, giving him confidence and joy through rhythm and song. Today, that spark is still alive and well—Wilder loves slipping on his headphones, turning up his Yoto box, and singing along with all his heart.

For Wilder, GiGi’s is more than a program, it’s a place of joy, belonging, and possibility. Wilder is the heart and inspiration behind this year’s gala, reminding us all what breaking barriers truly means. Join us as we celebrate Wilder and so many others who are Breaking Barriers at our ‘i have voice’ Gala!
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