GiGi University in the House!!
Have you even come into the Playhouse on a Monday, Wednesday, or a Friday and seen a group of adults working incredibly hard while having the time of their lives? Working out? Or working incredibly hard in the classroom? If you answered YES to any of these questions, then you have had the privilege of witnessing GiGi University in action. And starting October 31st, you will get the opportunity to witness GiGi Prep every Wednesday and Thursday.
What is GiGi University?
GiGi U is a comprehensive and progressive 15-week learning program tailored specifically for adults with Down syndrome. GiGi U is designed to motivate adults with Down syndrome to achieve their highest potential in the real world while developing their abilities in the areas of wellness, communication, and career skills. There is also a strong emphasis on job interviewing, communication skills, money management, public speaking, customer service, computer skills, and team building. The ideal candidate will be highly goal-oriented and motivated to achieve a new level of personal success. GiGi U is application and interview-based. Participants meet with the program leader prior to class and are provided with expectations for their commitment to the program. Upon successful completion of the GiGi U program and with their new preparedness and drive to succeed, graduates then move on to our live retail and/or office environments within the career studio as interns. The skills gained at GiGi U will resonate with graduates throughout their careers and lives.
What is GiGi Prep?
Our GiGi Prep program has an emphasis on building communication skills, money management, customer service skills, team building, and wellness. This program is an application-based program with high expectations to motivate adults with Down syndrome. GiGi Prep is designed for individuals aspiring to continue on the career development path to enroll and participate in GiGi U and the internship program, however a participant may need repetition of this course before moving on. Adults will meet with a program leader prior to start of the program for an interview.
So…. What’s the takeaway?
GiGi U is a 15-week long program, and GiGi Prep is a 6-week program where our adults work to achieve their #bestofall. While do we spend a time laughing and having a good time, we are also working incredibly hard! During GiGi U and Prep participants are not only working on skills such as customer service, money skills, communication, public speaking, fitness, and nutrition… just to name a few! During the day participants will make their own healthy lunch, participate in GiGi Fit, and spend time in the classroom, all while learning and having fun!!
Want to Join the Fun?!
Do you want to join in on these wholesome programs? GiGi U and GiGi Prep run three times a year, in the Fall, Spring and Summer. If you know someone who would benefit from these programs or want for information, email us at gigiuniversity@gigisplayhouse.org and visit our website HERE for dates, an application, and to schedule an interview.
We are always looking for volunteers! To volunteer, visit our website, contact the Playhouse, or join us every 2nd Tuesday of the month at 6pm for Volunteer Orientation. We hope to see you there!!
-Lyndsey Curry
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