Posts by htonak

Being a part of an international network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers has its perks! One of those perks being that we have brilliant minds within the network that are constantly researching, advocating, enhancing programs and more. One of the latest updates to our purposeful programs are Paired Progressions! We have always used Purposeful Progressions,…

Yesterday was World Down Syndrome Day and our Playhouse celebrated by co-hosting a superhero party! Our Playhouse was packed with new families and veteran Playhouse families. It was wonderful seeing families meeting for the first time and scheduling play dates at the Playhouse, friends playing, a mayoral proclamation and multiple news outlets covering our event!…

At GiGi’s Playhouse Fort Wayne, we love to find what our friends love to do and give them opportunities to shine. This week, we want to introduce you to Keegan, or as his newfound friend MG calls him, Cookie. Keegan was born with a love of children. He loves volunteering at Busy Bodies and welcoming…

Volunteers are the heart of the Playhouse. Thanks to our committed volunteers, who have logged over 7,800 volunteer hours since January 2016! It is because of our incredible army of over 200 volunteers that we have been able to see a child start Kindergarten reading at grade level. Thanks to our volunteers, we have witnessed…

During GiGi University, we find it important to offer several career exploration opportunities to ensure that our students are aware that they are capable of having a career. We want our students to know that they are worthy of having a career. We also want employers to know that individuals with Down syndrome are highly motivated and ready…

Fin, the GiGi University mascot, went on a journey with another GiGi U student over the holiday weekend. Read on to hear where Fin went with Elijah! While Fin was with me, I took him to Indiana Beach. We had a lot of fun, but there weren’t any dolphins there so mom said Fin had…

Our third session of GiGi University started last week and we have a mascot, Fin! Fin is a dolphin and dolphins are smart and work together, just like our GiGi University students! This past weekend, Joe, took Fin on many adventures. The following is the report Joe typed. Come back next week to read about…

This week we are highlighting our GiGi U intern, Jonathan. Jonathan can frequently be found researching weather, checking his weather alerts, dancing, and working out. His favorite activity to do in Club 21 is ringing up customers. Jonathan is a huge fan of Christian music and will jump at the chance to sing Matthew West songs…