A Family’s Drive for Acceptance

Each month, Landon Porto and his family make the 160-mile round trip drive from Colorado Springs to GiGi’s Playhouse Denver to attend Destination Discover – one of our signature programs.   

This program supports fine and gross motor skills, social skills, and language through purposeful play and peer-to-peer interaction in a casual and fun setting. The family relocated from New Mexico to Colorado in search of more opportunities for their son, Landon.  They have been active participants at GiGi’s Playhouse Denver since it opened its doors last year.

Landon Porto with mom, Melani, and Destination Discovery program volunteers at the Denver Playhouse.

Love at First Site (Visit)

While on vacation in Arizona, the family discovered GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix and fell in love. After experiencing the GiGi’s mission firsthand, they knew they had to move to a city with a Playhouse available. It was a tough decision between moving to either Phoenix or Denver so that Landon could have a community of support. 

“Landon deserves the same opportunities that every other child has available,” said Melani Romero, Landon’s mother. “We don’t want him to be treated differently based on his outward appearance and diagnosis.” 

They ultimately landed in Colorado Springs, south of the Denver metro area, and make a monthly visit to the Denver Playhouse a priority.  

Landon with his family

A Place to Connect

For Romero, the brick-and-mortar space for Landon and the family to come and connect with the Down syndrome community is the stand-out factor. Landon can interact with peers alike, and his unique abilities are not only understood but celebrated. In addition, the physical space offers Landon and his friends the opportunity to increase their social skills in person. Participating family members can also meet new people who can relate and share their experiences. 

“We are so thankful that you guys are here,” Romero expressed. 

And we’re so thankful Landon and his family are a part of our Playhouse community.  It’s so inspiring to hear their story and see the impact of GiGi’s purposeful programming!  We encourage you to come and meet Landon, Melani, and many other families at Destination Discovery. This signature program runs on the third Saturday of every month. Check on the monthly calendar to confirm dates, and be sure to RSVP!