Where Support Meets Opportunity: Matt’s Story of Resilience and Leadership
From My Perspective: Watching Matt Grow as a Leader In our adult programs at GiGi’s Playhouse Charlotte, Matt stands out as a quiet but powerful leader. He leads through example—showing responsibility, kindness, and focus in everything he does. In GiGi’s Kitchen, especially, Matt has been a steady presence. He approaches...
When Inclusion Meets Opportunity: How Zeke Found His Place in CrossFit
The Foundation About 3 years ago, Zeke’s once weekly gymnastics program folded, and we began looking for a place that he could continue moving and strengthening his body. I reached out to CrossFit Doors of Daring in Waxhaw to see if they were willing to give him a chance in...
Finding My Place: Why GiGi’s Playhouse Has Been the Heart of My MSW Experience
My experience at GiGi’s Playhouse has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding parts of my MSW journey so far. From the moment I joined, I’ve had the opportunity to work directly with individuals with Down syndrome across a range of programs, from GiGi Prep to Kids Corner and holiday...
Fierce, Spicy, and Full of Heart: Celebrating Amelia Sours
This month’s Best of All recognition goes to someone who embodies courage, resilience, and a whole lot of sparkle — Amelia Sours. At just 15 years old, Amelia is walking through one of life’s hardest journeys: her mother’s terminal cancer diagnosis. It’s a reality that would shake anyone, but Amelia? She faces it...
Naila’s Birthday
"Ever since I found GiGi’s playhouse, almost 2 years ago now, it has meant so much to me and my family. When I walked in for the first time, with my youngest child just a few weeks old, I was terrified about the unexpected diagnosis. I didn’t know what to...
Elon University visited GiGi’s Playhouse Charlotte January 16th
We recently had the pleasure of hosting a visit from Elon University during Teen Kitchen, where Riley played a pivotal role in leading the university students. Riley immediately took charge, assisting in teaching the class how to prepare chicken wraps. She skillfully demonstrated how to properly cut tomatoes and roll...
Genuine GiGi’s: The Sheikh Family
View the inspiring story of the Sheikh Family. The family is an active part of the GiGi's Playhouse Charlotte community. https://vimeo.com/1015860424
Genuine GiGi’s: The Maddex Family
View the inspiring story of the Maddex family. Laurie Maddex serves on the Board of GiGi's Playhouse Charlotte. https://vimeo.com/1017731634
Genuine GiGi’s: The Schlesing Family
View the inspiring story of the Schlesing family. Laura Schlesing serves on the Board of GiGi's Playhouse Charlotte. https://vimeo.com/1018047892
Wells Fargo Advisors Supports GiGi’s Playhouse
See why A.M. Stephens is inspired to support GiGi's Playhouse Charlotte.
Genuine GiGi’s: Inspirational Stories from our Families
The Rusciolelli family We were excited to sit down with Deborah Rusciolelli and learn about her amazing family. Deborah and her husband Bill met in Charlotte and have been married for 29 years. They have 9 children (yep, 9!). Bill retired from the Marine Corps about 6 years ago, and...
Genuine GiGi’s: Inspirational Stories from our Families
The Saltzman family I sat down with Rosaura Saltzman at GiGi’s Playhouse Charlotte as our sons enjoyed the Djembe drum circle with BaBa Freddie. Rosaura’s son Lucas is 19 and has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism. He was having a ball with his friends here at GiGi’s,...