Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day!
Each year, World Down Syndrome Day occurs on March 21st. This is purposefully done as the THIRD month on the TWENTY-FIRST day signifies the extra copy of the 21st chromosome that represents the genetic makeup of the Down syndrome diagnosis. Though we shout the worth of our "homies with an...
Best of All – Olivia!
When we think of Olivia, the first thing that comes to mind is her infectious giggle. The kind that fills the entire Playhouse and instantly lifts every heart around her. The next thought is how she is an incredible individual that is: strong, smart, caring, silly, athletic, and so deeply...
Volunteer of the Month – Mary!
This volunteer’s journey began behind the scenes, lending her time and heart to our Brews & Beats fundraisers gathering items, showing up for countless evening meetings, and helping bring each event to life. Over the past few years, her passion for GiGi’s has only grown, leading her into the world...
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 – ALL OUR 2025 VOLUNTEERS!
2025 seemed to pass in a blink of an eye, but we could not let the year pass without recognizing our volunteers who devote so much time, energy, and love to our participants & families. Whether a volunteer is rounding out their 5th year or their first month, the impact...
Best of All – Mike
Magnetic Mike is truly what we should be calling this individual. When he enters the Playhouse, everyone gravitates towards him and his energy. Whether you find him focused on a game, busting a move on the dance floor, or helping clean up after a program, Mike embodies the meaning of...
Best of All – Hunter
Confidence, joy, and wit. If you’ve spent even a few minutes with Hunter, you know he brings all of that and more into every room he enters. This month, we are thrilled to celebrate Hunter as our Best of All – Participant of the Month, and we truly couldn’t imagine...
Volunteers of the Month – Evan & Jake
Some volunteers show up. Others show up and change the room the moment they walk in. Evan and Jake do exactly that. From their very first day at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland, these two have brought energy, compassion, and genuine friendship to our GiGiFIT Kids program, and we are beyond proud...
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...