The Heart Behind GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo: Why We Give on Giving Hearts Day
At GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo, we believe in celebrating every achievement, no matter how big or small. Giving Hearts Day is an opportunity to come together as a community, ensuring that our programs remain free and accessible for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. The heart of GiGi’s Playhouse isn’t just in our mission—it’s in the people who make it all happen. Our board members, staff, and volunteers dedicate their time to creating a space of acceptance, education, and empowerment. Here’s why they give their hearts to GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo.
Heather Lorenzen – Executive Director
GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo inspires me because it is a place where every individual is celebrated for their unique abilities. Seeing lives transformed through acceptance, education, and empowerment motivates me to contribute my time.
One of my most cherished memories is welcoming baby Conner and his family into the Playhouse while sitting on the orange couch. Over the years, that couch has changed, but the memories remain. Now, our big green chair holds new moments of connection and comfort for families beginning their journey with us.
Aubrey Bjella – Volunteer
The participants inspire me the most. Seeing the joy our programs bring them makes every moment spent at GiGi’s so special. Some of my favorite memories are during GiGiFIT—whether it’s celebrating after an exercise, tackling an obstacle course, or simply playing basketball after the program. The room is always filled with big smiles.
Courtney Savageau – Program Coordinator
My motivation behind everything I do at GiGi’s is my brother Nick. Though he’s 1,800 miles away, I think of him in every decision I make. I wish we had GiGi’s when we were growing up, and knowing I can create that space for others fills me with gratitude.
One of my favorite programs is our Teen and Adult Kitchen. It requires significant planning and resources, but seeing participants work together to cook meals and try new foods makes it all worth it. Some of our quietest participants come to life in the kitchen, and that joy is incredible to witness.
Annalise Duffy – Board Member & Parent
My daughter, Lakyn, who has Down syndrome, is my reason for being involved in GiGi’s. One of my favorite memories is celebrating her 3rd birthday at the Playhouse. Watching her daycare friends interact with our community was a beautiful reminder of the power of inclusion and acceptance.
Drew Sannes – Board President
My connection to GiGi’s started with a childhood friendship with Jesse Johnston, who has Down syndrome. That friendship led me to volunteer when GiGi’s Fargo opened in 2015, and now, as board president, I’m honored to help guide its future.
A defining moment for me was joining the board after the fire in 2021. Witnessing the resilience of our team in rebuilding the Playhouse solidified my belief in this organization’s strength and impact
Lexi Jameson – Site Manager
I love to see our participants reach their goals. At GiGi’s, we are always celebrating, and I love to cheer on everyone, no matter what their goals are. Last spring, I had the opportunity to tutor a five-year-old, and I watched him read his first words to his mom, bringing her to tears. Moments like that are why I do what I do. It’s in those little victories—the first steps, the first words, the first time a participant confidently says, “I can do it!”—that we see the power of belief and opportunity. Every accomplishment, big or small, is a reminder that with the right support, anything is.
This Giving Hearts Day, You Can Make a Difference
The heart of GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo is our community—our families, our volunteers, and our supporters. Your generosity on Giving Hearts Day ensures that we can continue providing life-changing programs, free of charge. Every dollar raised helps individuals with Down syndrome reach their fullest potential in a world that believes in them.
Join us in spreading love, inclusion, and support this Giving Hearts Day. Give your heart to GiGi’s, and together, let’s celebrate what’s possible!
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