The Spirit of Giving: How You Can Help GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago Thrive in 2024

At GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago, our mission is clear: “To change the way the world views Down syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all.” For over a decade, we have worked tirelessly to fulfill that mission by keeping all our programs and services FREE and 99% volunteer-run. We have seen incredible growth in 2024, expanding our offerings like GiGiFIT Adult, Art Explosion Kids, GiGi Professional, and the Amina Grace Speech and Language program. This past year alone, we provided 21 different programs and over 4,557 hours of active participation, continuing to make a meaningful impact on the Down syndrome community. 

However, this year has been particularly challenging for GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago. We are facing a significant financial shortfall, with donations coming in far lower than in previous years. As a result, our sustainability is at risk, and without additional support, we will struggle to continue delivering the high-quality, life-changing programs that our families rely on. We need YOUR help more than ever to continue serving our incredible community. 

All our programs and services are FREE, and we rely solely on the generosity of donors who believe in our mission. We only receive donations specifically designated for the Chicago Playhouse, so every dollar you contribute directly impacts the families we serve here in Chicago. 

We are asking for your support to help us continue this essential work this holiday season. Please consider making a donation, volunteering your time, or becoming a monthly 321 monthly donor. Your ongoing support will help us sustain and expand our programs, ensuring that we can create a positive change in the Down syndrome community. 

Here are some ways you can make an impact: 

• Donate to our End of the Year Giving Campaign 

• Check with your company to see if they offer matching donations 

• Become a monthly 321 donor 

• Create a personalized Celebration Club fundraiser 

• Volunteer your time 

• Purchase items from our Amazon Wish List 

• Attend our fundraising events 

• Like, comment, and share your stories on our blog, Facebook, and Instagram 

A contribution of any size makes a huge impact, and donors like you are truly the backbone of our organization. Becoming a monthly donor is especially helpful, as it allows us to plan and execute long-term projects with greater stability. Monthly donations also reduce administrative costs, ensuring that more of your support goes directly toward our programs and services. It’s an efficient way to make your generosity go further. 

Your donations help us cover vital expenses such as rent, salaries, and the costs associated with our programs. Here are some examples of what your contribution can support: 

• $5 covers a welcome bag for new families! 
• $10 covers materials for literacy and math tutoring! 
• $25 covers cleaning supplies! 
• $50 covers one Amina Grace speech therapy session! 
• $100 supports monthly internship programming! 
• $125 covers the cost of volunteer onboarding! 
• $150 covers groceries for our cooking program! 
• $175 covers our office supplies! 
• $200 helps cover our utilities! 
• $500 one of our GiGiFIT programs for an entire year! 
• $1,000 supports our career development programs for a year! 
• $5,000 covers our rent for one month! 

We understand that times are tough for many, but every dollar you give brings us closer to reaching our goals. Please help us continue providing these critical services and expand our impact on the Down syndrome community in 2024 and beyond. 

Thank you for your unwavering support of GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago. Together, we can make a lasting difference!