Ten Years In: A Love Letter to GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland

Written by Lizz Maxwell

Ten years ago, I said yes to GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland.

I didn’t know then how deeply that yes would shape my life — my faith, my leadership, my understanding of community, and my sense of purpose. What I did know was that this place mattered. And ten years later, as GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland celebrates its 10th birthday, I can say with confidence: it matters more than ever.

GiGi’s Playhouse was built on a bold belief — that individuals with Down syndrome deserve to be accepted as they are and celebrated for who they are. That belief didn’t just live on a mission statement. It showed up in families walking through our doors for the first time, unsure but hopeful. It showed up in volunteers selflessly giving their time, their talent, and their hearts. It showed up in participants who reminded us daily what courage, joy, and resilience really look like.

Over the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing lives unfold here. I’ve seen toddlers take their first confident steps into programs, and young adults grow into advocates, leaders, and friends. I’ve watched families find community where isolation once lived. I’ve witnessed our Playhouse become a safe place — not just for those we serve, but for everyone who enters. This milestone reminds me of the countless lives that have touched this Playhouse over the past ten years, including those we have lost, whose presence helped shape what we do and why we do it.

Leadership, I’ve learned, isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening well, staying rooted in values, and showing up — even when the work is hard. Especially when the work is hard. Serving this community has stretched me in ways I never anticipated and grounded me in ways I desperately needed. This role has been one of the greatest honors of my life.

GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland is what it is today because of the people – our GiGi’s family. Families who trust us. Donors who believe in the mission. Volunteers who show up week after week. Board members, staff, and community partners who choose inclusion over convenience and advocacy over silence. This Playhouse stands because so many said yes — again and again.

As we celebrate ten years, we do so with gratitude for what has been built and anticipation for what is still to come. There is more work ahead. More voices to amplify. More barriers to break down. More lives to impact. And I am more convinced than ever that this community is ready.

Ten years in, my heart is still fully in this mission. Still committed. Still hopeful. Still believing that every individual with Down syndrome deserves a world that sees their worth clearly and loves them boldly.

Happy 10th birthday, GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland.
Thank you for trusting our team with your story — and for letting us be part of it.

Here’s to the next ten.

With a full heart and deep gratitude,

Lizz Maxwell

Executive Director