Together We Shine (Launch)

GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago: 2025 End-of-Year Update

At GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago, our mission is simple but powerful: to change the way the world views Down syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all. For more than 15 years, we have delivered FREE, research-based programs that build confidence, independence, and lifelong skills for individuals with Down syndrome, from infancy through adulthood. Our 99% volunteer-run model allows us to maximize every dollar in support of our families. 

In 2025, we expanded our impact even further with exciting new programs designed to meet the evolving needs of our community. New offerings this year included Leaps & Bounds for ages 3–5, Speech & Language Group for ages 3–5, Music Makers for ages 5–10, and a brand-new Adult Social Skills program. These additions build on the success of our existing programs like GiGiFIT Adult, Art Explosion Kids, GiGi Professional, and the Amina Grace Speech & Language Program. Altogether, GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago delivered over 3,417 hours of active program participation across 21 programs in 2025, providing meaningful growth opportunities for learners of all ages. 

But despite these accomplishments, 2025 has also been one of our toughest years yet. 

We are currently facing a significant financial shortfall. Donations are substantially lower than in past years, and without additional support, we risk being unable to sustain the high-quality, life-changing programs our families depend on. Every program at GiGi’s is 100% FREE—and every dollar donated to GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago stays right here to support our local community. 

As the year comes to a close, we are asking for your support to help stabilize and strengthen the Playhouse. 

What Your Donation Supports

Your generosity covers essential operating costs such as rent, program supplies, staff, and volunteer training. Here’s how far your gift can go: 

  • $5 – A welcome bag for new families 
  • $10 – Materials for literacy & math tutoring 
  • $25 – Cleaning supplies to keep the Playhouse safe 
  • $50 – One Amina Grace Speech & Language therapy session 
  • $100 – Monthly costs for internship programming 
  • $125 – Volunteer onboarding for a new helper 
  • $150 – Groceries for GiGi’s Kitchen 
  • $175 – Office supplies 
  • $200 – Utilities 
  • $500 – A full year of GiGiFIT programming 
  • $1,000 – One year of career development programming 
  • $5,000 – One month of rent for the Playhouse 

Every contribution—large or small—brings us closer to providing stability and joy for the hundreds of individuals and families we serve each year. 

Thank you for standing with us, supporting us, and believing in our mission. Together, we can ensure that GiGi’s Playhouse Chicago continues to grow, thrive, and change lives in 2025 and beyond. 

Thank you for your unwavering support. Together, we make acceptance and achievement possible.