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Program Spotlight: Destination Discovery

Play = Fun + Learning! This spring we launched a new program for all ages called Destination Discovery. We're going to take a moment to tell you how phenomenal it is! Like all our programs at GiGi's Playhouse Detroit, Destination Discovery supports the development of fine motor skills, gross motor...
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“Best of All”: GiGi’s Playhouse Dancers

This month's #BestOfAll goes out to Landon, Lucy, Kearahston, Sara, and Zachary, for their incredible dance performance with the Wayne State University Dance Team! This crew met at the Playhouse only three times to learn a brand new routine before performing it in front of a big crowd at the...
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Honoring My Baby Sister

Guest Post by Margaret Kunz I am not sure how to describe my happiness to be involved with GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit. My explanation is extremely personal and brings me unspeakable sorrow, as well as great joy and peace.  Sixty-five years ago, my little sister, Diane Ruth Sherwood, was born. I was...
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Meet the New Program Leaders – Music Makers

It's a Family Affair! This spring we launched another new program, called Music Makers. Thanks to the lovely Kunz family, we have already received tremendous reviews! Allow us to introduce Jeannie, Bill, Margaret, and Frank - the rockstars who stepped up to lead our joyful ensemble. Back in the day,...
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Meet the New Program Leaders – Destination Discovery

Destination Discovery is a brand new program, launched this spring at GiGi's Playhouse Detroit. We have tremendous gratitude for the two brave women who have taken it on and are doing a fabulous job so far! Introducing Amanda and Jaclyn... Amanda Glorio Jaclyn Luchkovitz What is your favorite type of...
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Meet The New Program Leaders – LMNOP

This spring we were blessed with NINE new program leaders! How wonderful for our families to experience the enthusiasm, joy, and talent each of these individuals brings. With their support, we've been able to grow and expand our offering of therapeutic and educational programs to folks with Down syndrome of...
Ripple Effect Blog

The Ripple Effect

Ripple effect - noun: a spreading, pervasive, and usually unintentional effect or influence. A ripple effect occurs when a small, initial disturbance to a system propagates outward to disturb an increasingly larger portion of the system. Have you ever tossed a stone into a lake when the water was completely calm? Although the pebble is...
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Ian’s “Best of All”

Best of All: best of all (noun) \best of all\ is progressive, continual, measurable, and it never ends. It is a daily challenge to do a little better than you did the day before, and it’s always celebrated. Possible manifestations: standing just one second longer, reading just one more word,...
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Volunteer Spotlight: Paige Bradley

This month we're showcasing the fabulous Paige Bradley! Paige began leading Art Explosion in the fall of 2023. A mother of 2 sweet girls, Paige stays active by substitute teaching, volunteering in her daughters' classrooms, coaching soccer, and a leading a girl scout troop. It's a wonder she has time...
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Ryan’s “Best of All” 

It’s 9 am on a Saturday morning at GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit and 7-year-old Ryan is in his seat, ready for Leaps & Bounds to begin.   This program, geared toward 4 – 7-year-olds and focused on school success, involves many routines, such as checking in, discussing the calendar and weather, transitioning...
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Volunteer Spotlight: Becca Mansfield

Allow us to introduce the wonderful Becca Mansfield! Becca began volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit in the fall of 2023. She started by supporting two programs for youth and adults, and within weeks asked, “How do I become a program leader?” Becca now leads GiGi's Kitchen Teen and continues to...
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Volunteer Spotlight: Fran Roth

GiGiFIT Infant Leaders Fran (left), Meghan (right) This month it is our absolute pleasure to recognize an incredible woman who has donated her time and talent to the youngest members of our community, since 2019! There couldn't be a more qualified person to co-lead our GiGiFIT Infant program. Fran is...