GiGi’s Playhouse and APEX: An Ongoing Partnership

Every month, GiGi’s Playhouse Des Moines is proud to serve more than 200 participants through over 600 hours of purposeful programming, including one-on-one tutoring, fitness classes, and life skills programs. These free programs help us fulfill our mission of changing the way the world views Down syndrome and sending a global message of acceptance for all. None of this would be possible without our incredible volunteer network that numbers in the hundreds.

One organization making a meaningful impact this spring is the Waukee Community Schools APEX (Aspiring Professional Experience) program. Through a collaboration between education, business, and the community, Waukee APEX helps develop highly skilled, adaptable leaders by connecting students with real-world experiences and authentic projects. These opportunities allow students to explore career paths while adding value to community partners like GiGi’s Playhouse.

This spring, several APEX students are bringing their energy and talents to our programs.

Chloe and Hazel volunteer with our Fantastic Friends program and lead a weekly wellness check-in with participants. They take blood pressure and heart rate readings, help complete weekly wellness trackers, and work with participants to set healthy goals for the week. Their encouragement helps participants stay focused on their wellness while building confidence and healthy habits.

Jack and Ryan volunteer with GiGiFIT Adult, where they are helping conduct pre- and post-assessments so participants can track their strength and fitness progress. As athletes, they bring their experience, enthusiasm, and creativity to each session, introducing engaging fitness ideas that motivate our GiGiFIT participants and keep them moving.

Meredith and Logan support our GiGi’s Kitchen Adult program, helping participants work toward greater independence in the kitchen. They assist in leading weekly cooking sessions where adults learn new recipes, practice cooking skills and safety, and build important life skills while working together as a team of chefs.

We are incredibly grateful to the Waukee APEX program and these dedicated students for sharing their time, talents, and passion with our participants. Their commitment helps make our programs stronger and our community more inclusive.