True Inclusion
True inclusion is . . . telling your friend you "can't wait to meet her baby!" when she finds out her child will have Down syndrome at a routine pregnancy screening. reaching to hold your cousin's newborn baby and telling them "congratulations", as you look at their baby's beautiful almond-shaped...
Volunteer of the Month: Cindy!
This month, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Cindy, a volunteer whose heart and energy have made a lasting impact at GiGi’s Playhouse. After stepping back from a 30+ year career in executive recruiting, Cindy hit the ground running in March 2025, bringing her passion for giving back...
Best of All – Meghan!
Every month at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland, we celebrate someone who embodies what it means to be their Best of All — and this month, that person is Meghan! Whether she’s skating across the ice, greeting fans at the Cleveland Browns stadium, or dazzling friends with her confidence and humor, Meghan...
Celebrate Down syndrome ACCEPTANCE Month
October is Down Syndrome ACCEPTANCE Month – an entire month dedicated to shouting our friends’ and children’s worth from the rooftops! You might be wondering why we say ACCEPTANCE versus awareness. Saying "acceptance" versus "awareness" shifts the focus from simply knowing that individuals with Down syndrome exist, to actively embracing...
Volunteer of the Month – Ella!
Ella’s intentionality and passion for acceptance and inclusion took root several years ago when she launched her own podcast, using her voice to highlight stories that matter. In October 2021, she reached out to interview our dear friend Amy Jo - a connection that started small but has since grown...
Best of All – Vivi!
If you bop into the Playhouse during a teen program, chances are you’ll spot Vivi right in the middle of the action - laughing, moving, and making every moment count. Vivi is a familiar face here at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland, participating in Project Pulse, GiGiFIT, Teen Tastic, Games with Friends,...
Back to School – How to Have the Best School Year!
As the new school year approaches, excitement and anticipation fill the air. For parents of children with Down syndrome, the back-to-school season may come with a unique set of emotions and considerations. While it's a time of fresh starts and new opportunities, it can also bring new situations that require...
The Dignity of Risk
The concept of "dignity of risk" is a powerful and transformative idea, especially when applied to individuals with Down syndrome. It emphasizes the importance of allowing people to take risks, make choices, and experience the natural consequences of their actions. This approach is essential in fostering independence, self-confidence, and personal...
Treating Adults with Down Syndrome Like Adults: A Guide to Dignity and Respect
It’s important to recognize and treat adults with Down syndrome the way they deserve—with dignity, respect, and a full understanding of their capabilities. Just like any other adult, they have the ability to contribute meaningfully to their communities, pursue their goals, and live fulfilling lives. But how do we ensure...
Volunteer of the Month – Erin!
We’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on someone truly special this month - our dedicated, joyful, and inspiring Volunteer of the Month, Erin! With nearly two and a half years of service under her belt, Erin has become an essential part of our GiGi’s Playhouse family, and her heart for...
Best of All – ANDY!
This little guy may be small, but his personality is anything but! Andy brings joy, determination, and just the right amount of sass every time he walks through the doors of the Playhouse. Whether he’s giving side-eye before a hug or showing pure love to his amazing parents, Andy knows...
Every Path is Worth Celebrating: Embracing Adults with Down Syndrome at Every Stage of Independence
When we talk about adults with Down syndrome, too often the focus is on achievements that fit traditional milestones like maintaining a full-time job, getting married, living independently, or obtaining a driver’s license. While these are significant and exciting accomplishments, if we only celebrate these visible markers, we risk overlooking...