{"id":141583,"date":"2023-03-22T14:09:11","date_gmt":"2023-03-22T20:09:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/?p=141583"},"modified":"2023-06-26T09:13:46","modified_gmt":"2023-06-26T15:13:46","slug":"gigifit-acceptance-challenge-team-spotlights","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/2023\/03\/22\/gigifit-acceptance-challenge-team-spotlights\/","title":{"rendered":"GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge Team Spotlights"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"556\" src=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/GFAC-glowrun-1024x556.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-141594\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/GFAC-glowrun-1024x556.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/GFAC-glowrun-300x163.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/GFAC-glowrun-768x417.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/GFAC-glowrun-1536x833.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/GFAC-glowrun.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our second annual <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/acceptance-challenge\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">GiGiFit Acceptance Challenge 5K Glow Run<\/a><\/strong> will take place on April 29, 2023, at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park. We will be highlighting some of our amazing teams in the weeks leading up to our fantastic event! Keep reading to learn about each featured team. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fighter Jett!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Are you honoring anyone with your team?<\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-141599\" width=\"208\" height=\"313\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-1.jpg 432w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-1-200x300.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 208px) 100vw, 208px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are participating in honor of Jett, who has Down syndrome, because he has brought so much joy into our lives and our community since he was born a few years ago.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How do you give your &#8220;Best of All&#8221; each Day?&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jett gives his &#8220;best of all&#8221; each day, whether at preschool, at therapies, playing with his big brother or friends, or being a helper around the house. Jett is a hard worker that inspires those around him to push through daily challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignleft size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-2.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-141600\" width=\"380\" height=\"285\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-2.jpg 468w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-2-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 380px) 100vw, 380px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is your favorite program to participate in at GiGi\u2019s Playhouse? Why?<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our favorite program at GiGi\u2019s Playhouse so far is Literacy. The tutors have always gone above and beyond to ensure that it is both an educational experience and fun. Our whole family has benefited from the strategies utilized and has been able to transfer them to other areas of our lives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How do you show acceptance to other people?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We try to model and promote inclusion in our day-to-day lives. We acknowledge that we are all more alike than different and that diversity is a strength of our community.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-141602\" width=\"315\" height=\"374\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-4.jpg 468w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-4-253x300.jpg 253w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 315px) 100vw, 315px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What does it mean for you to have a GiGi\u2019s Playhouse in our community?&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We are so thankful to have a GiGi\u2019s Playhouse in our community because it provides a unique opportunity for people with Down syndrome and their families to connect, share our stories and experiences, and learn from one another. The Playhouse also provides us with educational opportunities and resources to help our loved ones with Down syndrome give their Best of All.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Share a fun aspect of your loved one and the importance of them in your life.&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jett has a contagious giggle and can make any moment fun. A hug from Jett can turn even the worst day around. He loves to play ball of any kind, read books, and wrestle with his big brother. From dancing to music to doing his mohawk daily, Jett\u2019s unique personality shines through and reminds us to appreciate the little things in life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can support <strong>Fighter Jett<\/strong> here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Jasper&#8217;s Jam Squad!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\" style=\"grid-template-columns:62% auto\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/gigis-playhouse-lakewood-grand-opening_natalie-statter-76-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-141585 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/gigis-playhouse-lakewood-grand-opening_natalie-statter-76-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/gigis-playhouse-lakewood-grand-opening_natalie-statter-76-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/gigis-playhouse-lakewood-grand-opening_natalie-statter-76-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/gigis-playhouse-lakewood-grand-opening_natalie-statter-76-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/gigis-playhouse-lakewood-grand-opening_natalie-statter-76-1-2048x1366.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Have you participated in GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge? <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We raised funds for last year\u2019s event but could not attend the Glow Run. Mother Nature rescheduled the first date with a spring snowstorm, and then, unfortunately, we had to miss the rescheduled date due to a family trip. We\u2019re so excited to be able to be a part of the GiGiFit Acceptance Challenge in person this year.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Are you honoring anyone with your team?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019re participating to honor our son, Jasper, who has Down syndrome. We want to shine a BRIGHT spotlight on all his abilities and the unique gifts he brings to our family and community. Jasper LOVES to dance, so the Jam Squad will be bringing lots of energy and fun this year!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is your favorite program to participate in and why? <\/strong> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ve had a lot of fun at the <a href=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/our-programs\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/our-programs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Art Explosion<\/a> events, especially when Jasper and his sisters can participate together. Ultimately, it\u2019s the community aspect we love most about GiGi\u2019s Playhouse when we can socialize with other families who understand and connect on our shared experiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How do you give your \u2018Best of All\u2019 each day?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Jasper works so hard every day, whether it\u2019s school, therapy, sports, or countless appointments. He\u2019s always generous with a warm greeting, smile, or hug. \u201cBest of All&#8221; is seeing how his positive outlook brightens other people\u2019s day and reminds me to keep life in perspective by letting go of the small stuff and living in the moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What is your favorite way to volunteer at GiGi\u2019s Playhouse and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I\u2019ve been involved with the Denver Playhouse marketing committee since 2021 before we officially opened the doors. Contributing my professional experience to an organization and mission that means so much to me personally is rewarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How do you show acceptance to others?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Acceptance is about understanding \u2013 leading with an open mind and heart to demonstrate support but not trying to force change. I\u2019m constantly trying to show more patience and empathy, which is a work in progress!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What does it mean to you to have a GiGi\u2019s Playhouse in your community?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GiGi\u2019s Playhouse Denver gives our family a physical space and a sense of recognition. It signifies that individuals with Down syndrome and their loved ones are essential community members, and our success helps create a stronger, more vibrant, and inclusive community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide has-media-on-the-right is-stacked-on-mobile is-vertically-aligned-top\"><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can support Jasper&#8217;s Jam Squad <a href=\"https:\/\/support.gigisplayhouse.org\/gigifit-acceptance-challenge-2023\/team\/jaspers-groovy-jam-squad?participant=meghan-pusey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>, create your own team, or even volunteer at the event. There are so many ways to take the challenge and send a message of acceptance for all. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get started today at <a href=\"https:\/\/support.gigisplayhouse.org\/gigifit-acceptance-challenge-2023\/event\/denver-gigifit-acceptance-challenge-2023\">https:\/\/support.gigisplayhouse.org\/gigifit-acceptance-challenge-2023\/event\/denver-gigifit-acceptance-challenge-2023<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"505\" height=\"494\" src=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-141587 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1.jpg 505w, https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/files\/2023\/03\/image-1-300x293.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 505px) 100vw, 505px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Our second annual GiGiFit Acceptance Challenge 5K Glow Run will take place on April 29, 2023, at Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park. We will be highlighting some of our amazing teams in the weeks leading up to our fantastic event! Keep reading to learn about each featured team. Fighter Jett! Are you honoring anyone with your&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1473,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-141583","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/141583","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1473"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=141583"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/141583\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=141583"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=141583"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/gigisplayhouse.org\/denver\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=141583"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}