Celebrating Spring Programs!
And that’s a wrap on spring programming! As we near the end of our spring 2025 session for group and 1:1 programs, it is exciting to look back on the last few months and see the incredible growth, connections, and memories that have been made. Whether it was in a...
Celebrating Our Volunteers: The Heartbeat of GiGi’s Playhouse
As we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month, we at GiGi's Playhouse find ourselves filled with gratitude and admiration for the incredible individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and love to our mission. Volunteers are the lifeblood of our organization, and without them, GiGi's Playhouse simply wouldn't have the incredible impact that...
The Impact of Career Programming at GiGi’s Playhouse – Emma’s Experience
Emma has been a participant at GiGi’s Playhouse Hoffman Estates since 2017, participating in programs like Speech Therapy, Math tutoring, GiGiFIT Teen, Literacy Tutoring, GiGi Prep, GiGiU, GiGi’s Kitchen Adult, GiGiFIT Adult, Games with Friends, and Fantastic Friends. Most recently, Emma has been working as an intern in Hugs &...
Best of All: Zach Brings Home Gold at the Special Olympics!
We’re proud to celebrate an incredible achievement by Zach, who recently earned a gold medal at the Special Olympics in the benchpress competition! His strength, determination, and hard work paid off in a big way, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to share his success. What Are the Special Olympics?...
The GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge is back!
The challenge is simple, support our Hoffman Estates location and take part in the festivities to show your commitment to the inclusion of those with Down syndrome and all unique abilities! Join us for our 5K run, one mile walk, and a day full of other exciting activities! Registration is...
Farzin’s Blog
Last month, GiGi’s Playhouse hosted its National Gala, which is our biggest fundraising event of the year. As a marketing intern, I had multiple roles for the Gala: ROLE 1: Interviewing Guests I asked guests multiple questions at the Gala.I talked to them while filming and asked why they support...
Our GiGi Professionals in the Community
At GiGi’s Playhouse, we strive to provide not only educational programming, but purposeful programming for individuals with Down syndrome throughout their lifespan. This is where our Career Development Programs come in! The goal of our Career Development Programs is to get our adults independent employment or volunteer opportunities in the...
Daniel’s Story: A leader Making a Difference
Daniel has been a long-time participant at GiGi’s Playhouse, engaging in various programs such as 1:1 tutoring, the Amina Grace Speech and Language program, GiGi's Kitchen, and GiGiFIT. He also spends his free time working at a local fitness club, a milestone he recently celebrated — 13 years on the...
Finding Your Village at GiGi’s Playhouse
At GiGi's Playhouse we pride ourselves on being a resource of community and support to all our families, but especially new moms. We truly work to ensure that every family feels the love, support, and community that we strive to create. We want to highlight one of the many beautiful...
Beep Beep: Creating Transportation Independence for Individuals with Disabilities.
At GiGi’s Playhouse, we provide FREE programming to individuals with Down syndrome from a prenatal diagnosis through adulthood. It’s such a blessing to see our participants in their various life stages, learning and growing with us each year! As our participants grow and change, so do their needs, and their...
Meet Khushi, Our New Hugs and Mugs Volunteer!
This month, we want to recognize a new volunteer to our playhouse. Khushi started as a volunteer in our Hugs and Mugs Café just this month, working alongside our participants helping them complete their certifications. We asked her what brought her into our playhouse, “I wanted to volunteer at Gigi’s...
Thank you, Kohls Cares!
Kohl's Cares is a philanthropic initiative by Kohl's Department Stores that focuses on supporting children's health and education. Through this program, Kohl's partners with local and national organizations to fund programs that benefit children and families in need. One of the key aspects of Kohl's Cares is its commitment to...