Posts by mvance
A Family Affair: The Braham Family’s Heart for GiGi’s Playhouse
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we often say that community is what makes our mission come alive, but every so often, a family comes along that embodies that truth in the most beautiful way. The Braham family is one of those families. Through volunteering, participation, and genuine care for others, Ashley, Michael, and Sean each play…
Read MoreNew Accessible Entryways at GiGi’s Playhouse Canton
We’re excited to share an important update that makes our Playhouse even more welcoming and accessible for every individual and family we serve — we have new accessible entryways! Accessibility is part of our commitment to creating a space where individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and our community feel confident, supported, and included from…
Read MoreChelsea Finds Her Voice
Chelsea’s Best of All moment is one that speaks volumes—literally and figuratively. At 35 years old, Chelsea is navigating life following a traumatic brain injury (TBI), and over the past month, she has made incredible strides in her ability to communicate using an eye-gazing device. Each intentional glance is more than communication—it’s connection, choice, and…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight: Roxanne
GiGi’s Playhouse Canton is deeply grateful for the volunteers who pour their hearts into our mission. Roxanne Schnabel is a lifelong advocate, dedicated mother, and an incredible champion for individuals with disabilities. Roxanne recently retired after serving 20 years as the Director of Nursing for GentleBrook in Hartville, where she cared for 50 individuals with…
Read MoreMeet Our Spring Interns!
This spring, GiGi’s Playhouse Canton is excited to welcome three interns whose shared passion for pediatric care, occupational therapy, and inclusive community support will enrich programs across the Playhouse. Though each is at a different stage in their professional journey, Maria, Tori, and Jaeden are united by a commitment to learning, collaboration, and empowering individuals…
Read MoreSpotlight on Sharon: A Heart for Service at GiGi’s Playhouse Canton
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we are incredibly grateful for volunteers who bring heart, passion, and dedication to every moment. Today, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Sharon Blackstock, someone whose kindness and commitment light up our Playhouse each week. Sharon is a proud mother of four, grandmother of fourteen, and great-grandmother of one. She…
Read MoreCelebrating Maylee’s Creativity
Maylee has been part of the GiGi’s Playhouse Canton family on and off for several years, first attending programs shortly after opening, and one thing has always remained constant – her love for our Teen programming. Whether she’s jumping into fitness, learning new skills in the kitchen, or trying something brand new, Maylee shows up…
Read MoreSheena Stropki: Mom, Educator, Volunteer & More!
As this month’s volunteer spotlight, we’re thrilled to highlight Sheena Stropki, a dedicated mom, educator, and cherished member of our GiGi’s Playhouse Canton family! Sheena is the proud mom of Paxton, whose Down syndrome diagnosis first connected their family with GiGi’s when he was just one month old. Today, Sheena is not only an active…
Read MoreReflecting on the 2025 GiGi’s Annual Leadership Conference
Earlier in November, our team had the privilege of joining Playhouse leaders from across the country for the 2025 GiGi’s Annual Leadership Conference – a powerful gathering filled with inspiration, learning, and connection. Throughout the conference, we reflected on the incredible growth of our network, now more than 60 Playhouses strong, and explored new ways…
Read MoreOvercoming Obstacles: Matt’s Best of All
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, there is no challenge too big to overcome, and our Best of All honoree this month, Matt, is living proof of that. Matt approaches every challenge with determination, joy, and a “can-do” attitude that inspires everyone around him. Whether it’s through his school work or here at the Playhouse, Matt actively…
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