A Mother’s Day Message from Emily
There’s a certain sweet darkness that comes with being the mother of a child with a disability. A knowledge that this is a gift that could disappear at any moment. We watch our fellow moms suffering loss and illness. We send prayers and support and thank God that it isn’t us, but it’s always there.…
An Evening of Sherlock Holmes Mysteries: A Night of Entertainment for a Meaningful Cause
Looking for a fun and unique night out while supporting an incredible mission? Join us for “An Evening of Sherlock Holmes Mysteries,” a special fundraising event benefiting GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo! Presented by IMC’s (Immanuel’s Men’s Club) Theatre of Imagination, this exciting production will take place at Immanuel Lutheran Church (107 Scott Street, Tonawanda, NY) on: This one-of-a-kind event features two classic…
GiGi’s Sports Challenge
Mark your calendars, Buffalo! An exciting, high-energy event is on the horizon, and you won’t want to miss it. The GiGi’s Sports Challenge is coming on May 16th from 10:00 AM- 12:00 PM at The R.O.C.K. – and it’s shaping up to be an unforgettable morning of movement, teamwork, and fun for all ages! What is the GiGi’s Sports Challenge? The GiGi’s Sports Challenge is more than just an event; it’s a celebration…
Honoring the Capitol Crawl – 36 years later
On March 12, 1990, over 1,000 disability-rights advocates marched from the White House to the U.S. Capitol, demanding passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In a dramatic moment that captivated the nation, about 60 participants abandoned their wheelchairs and crawled up the Capitol steps, vividly demonstrating the daily barriers faced by people with…
Volunteering Will Change Your Life
At GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo Volunteers are the heartbeat of GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo. Whether you’re leading a program, supporting an event, or cheering on our participants, your time and energy create meaningful, lasting change. But here’s the incredible truth: when you volunteer, your life changes too. Volunteering Benefits Everyone—Including You Research consistently shows that volunteer work boosts…
Light Up the Night: Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day 2026 in Buffalo
On March 21, 2026, GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo will once again shine bright for our annual “Light Up the Night” World Down Syndrome Day Celebration, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you! World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is more than just a date on the calendar. It’s a global movement of awareness, inclusion, advocacy, and love. And…
Beyond the Diagnosis
A Heartfelt Guide for New and Expecting Mothers First things first, congratulations! Whether you’re expecting or already holding your beautiful baby in your arms, this journey is filled with love, learning, and incredible moments. We know that hearing “Down syndrome” can bring a mix of emotions: joy, fear, hope, and questions. That’s okay. Every feeling is valid. And here’s the truth: you are…
Can You Have Both Down syndrome & Autism?
Many families wonder if a child with Down syndrome (DS) can also be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The answer is yes, and understanding this overlap is key to ensuring your child gets the right support. How Common Is DS–ASD? Studies suggest that approximately 16–20% of individuals with Down syndrome also meet the criteria for autism, significantly higher than…
Helping Your Child with Down Syndrome Reach New Milestones in 2026
Empower. Encourage. Celebrate Every Step Forward. As we step into a brand-new year, the air is filled with hope, excitement, and endless possibilities. At GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo, we believe that every milestone, big or small, is worth celebrating. For families raising a child with Down syndrome, these milestones may look different, but they are just as meaningful, and often…
Reflecting on an Incredible Year at GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo
A Year of Acceptance, Empowerment, and Community at GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo As we close out 2025, we can’t help but pause and reflect on the incredible moments that made this year so special for our GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo family. Every event, every class, and every smile reminded us why our mission matters: to change the way the world…