Posts Tagged ‘Down syndrome’
Volunteer Spotlight: Sofia
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we’re grateful to shine a light on one of our incredible volunteers, Sofia, whose compassion and dedication have made a lasting impact on our Playhouse community! Sofia is a Canton native and a proud graduate of McKinley High School’s Class of 2020. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, she continued…
Read MoreBest of All: Ryan’s Passion for Helping Others
If you’ve spent any time at GiGi’s Playhouse Canton since we opened, chances are you’ve met Ryan T. He is a friendly face who brings joy, dedication, and a whole lot of Generation G’s heart to everything he does! Ryan is not only a participant in our adult programs who happens to have Down syndrome,…
Read MoreMeet Traci: Spring Intern 2025
We are thrilled to introduce you to Traci, our amazing spring intern at GiGi’s Playhouse Canton! Traci is a college senior majoring in Exercise Science and plans to attend occupational therapy school at Walsh University in the fall of 2025. She has a background in working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including teaching…
Read MorePlanting Seeds of Change: 6 Years of GiGi’s Playhouse Canton
Today, we celebrate 6 years of GiGi’s Playhouse Canton. Last week, we had the privilege of having FirstEnergy Corp. Green Team volunteers join us in generously planting 6 trees through their Community Tree Program as an homage to the work being done in our community. As part of FirstEnergy’s commitment to building a more sustainable…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight: Melissa Quinlan
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we are lucky to have a strong team of volunteers who pour their time and talent into advancing our mission of acceptance for all. This month, we’re honored to spotlight Melissa Quinlan, a dynamic volunteer and dedicated supporter of our Playhouse. Get to Know Melissa and Her Involvement at GiGi’s! Melissa…
Read MoreBest of All: Cece in Motion, A Journey of Strength and Smiles
At GiGi’s Playhouse, we celebrate every milestone—big or small—because we know they are stepping stones to independence. One of our shining stars, Cece, is a perfect example of determination, energy, and the power of a supportive community. Cece has been a consistent participant in the GiGiFIT Infant program since she was only a couple of…
Read MoreBest of All: Mallory Mastering Independence in the Kitchen!
At GiGi’s Playhouse, we cherish stories of growth, independence, and joy. We write with excitement to celebrate and spread the word about our ambitious chef- Mallory! She is a vibrant 13-year-old, who embodies the values above through her participation in our Teens Cooking Class. A Four-Year Journey of Inclusion and Growth For the past four…
Read MoreCelebrate World Down Syndrome Day!
Every year on March 21st, we come together to raise awareness, celebrate inclusion, and recognize the incredible contributions of individuals with Down syndrome. This special day—3/21—symbolizes the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome that defines Down syndrome. At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we honor this day by amplifying voices, sharing inspiring stories, and spreading…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight: Abbey Keller
At GiGi’s Playhouse, we are incredibly grateful for our amazing volunteers who bring passion, dedication, and love to our community. This month, we are excited to spotlight Abbey Keller, a wonderful volunteer making a meaningful impact at GiGi’s Playhouse Canton! Abbey is currently a senior at Kent State University, studying Exercise Science with a Physical…
Read MoreThe Evolution of an Event: A Night for GiGi’s
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we strive to create events that bring people together, celebrate inclusion, and support our mission of changing the way the world views Down syndrome. Over the years, one of our signature events has evolved, not just in size and impact but also in name. Each change has been intentional, reflecting our…
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