Sweet Treats and Big Hearts: Celebrating Elle’s Sweet Shop

At just 7 years old, Elle is already making a big impact in her community and at GiGi’s Playhouse Atlanta!

On June 26, Elle set up Elle’s Sweet Shop at the corner near her school, welcoming friends, neighbors, and passersby with cookies, Rice Krispie treats, lemonade, water, bracelets, and lots of smiles. With music playing and a speaker ready for song requests, Elle turned a simple stand into a joyful summer celebration of sweetness and generosity.

Elle originally created her shop to raise funds for her summer camp, but her efforts were so successful that she ended the day with a $100 surplus. And what did Elle choose to do with that extra money? She donated it to GiGi’s Playhouse in honor of her little brother, Paul. In a heartfelt “thank you” video shared on her dad’s Instagram, Elle explained, “Paul has Down syndrome and they do it [programs and services] for free.” Her words—and her gift—touched all of us deeply.

Paul and his family have been a part of the GiGi’s community for the past year and a half. Each week, Paul and his siblings participate together in our Music Therapy and Leaps & Bounds, a preschool readiness program. These programs have helped Paul grow by leaps and bounds! He’s made incredible progress in our Amina Grace speech therapy program and has even weaned off of tube feeding, a huge milestone for him and his family. Watching Paul thrive with the support of GiGi’s and his family is what makes our mission so meaningful.

We are beyond grateful to kids like Elle who, even at such a young age, truly understand the value of giving back and the importance of inclusion. Elle’s Sweet Shop wasn’t just about treats—it was about love, family, and the power of community. At GiGi’s Playhouse, all of our programs are completely free for families like Elle and Paul’s—but they aren’t free to provide. It’s through the kindness and generosity of people like Elle—and you—that we are able to continue offering life-changing programs for individuals with Down syndrome.

If a 7-year-old can make this kind of impact, imagine what we can do together. Please consider making a donation today in honor of Elle, Paul, and every family who walks through our doors. Your support helps us continue to grow, celebrate, and empower our amazing community.

Thank you, Elle, for being a shining example of compassion and generosity. Paul is lucky to have a sister like you, and we are lucky to have you as part of our GiGi’s Playhouse family!