A Unique Look Back at 2025

It’s New Year’s Eve, and the perfect time to look back at 2025. But we’ve decided to do it in a different way. Not with a “Best of” list, but something a bit different.

For this reflection, we’ve collected some items found around the Playhouse, including a couple of things from our Lost and Found. But they all represent something special.

“Stitch” was brought to us by a volunteer that suggested that we keep it handy for when we learn of someone that might need a buddy. Like, maybe a participant in the hospital looking for the comfort found in a stuffy that, like them, is a bit different. But also special and loving – just like them and the character from Disney’s Lilo and Stitch.

The cap was left behind one day last week. Knowing that kids would be on break from school, we had special activities on this day when we all made dog biscuits from scratch. We were thrilled to welcome several families, because we absolutely love the laughter and joy that fills the Playhouse. Most of the time, we lean into the fact that GiGi’s programs are progressive and purposeful. But sometimes, it’s just about fun.

The water bottle was left behind from a GiGiFIT class, which isn’t what you might think. It’s not push-ups and jumping jacks. We know what’s important to kids and adults with Down syndrome, so we focus on improving areas like strength, endurance, joint stability, balance, movement control and more. And they work up a sweat.

The rock was from the Destination Discovery program for adults on a day when we showed our participants that art isn’t limited to what we create on paper or canvas. We can make something as mundane as rocks become real works of art.

And speaking of works of art, look at jellyfish. That creation was made from construction paper, yarn and magic markers at a Fall edition of Art Explosion. This program brings together participants of all ages, encouraging them to pair up their artistic skills with their imagination to create something original. It’s not about copying anything. It’s about making something as unique and as beautiful as they are.

Finally, resting upon that cap is a button that says, “THIS IS WHAT AN AWESOME VOLUNTEER LOOKS LIKE!”. We handed these out at a volunteer open house held this past Monday. Although many of these amazing people stopped by for a warm beverage and a muffin (and a button!), we didn’t see everyone. So, we have them in stock and ready to pass out the next time we see them. 99% of GiGi’s programming is delivered by volunteers and we love them as much as we love our participants!

If one of your New Year’s Resolutions is to make a difference in your community through volunteering, please consider joining the GiGi’s Family. We’d love to have you!