Swinging for a Cause: Highlights from Our 11th Annual Golf Outing Benefiting GiGi’s Playhouse
As the summer sun fades and the crisp autumn air settles in, we’re excited to share the highlights from our 11th Annual GiGi’s Playhouse Golf Outing, which took place at the stunning Ivanhoe Club in Mundelein, IL. This year’s event was not just a celebration of golf but a meaningful...
Best of All: Sara Pedicone
Sara has been attending GiGi’s Playhouse before she was even born! At GiGi’s, she has been involved in many of our programs. LMNOP, Leaps and Bounds, Kids Dance, GiGiFIT Kids, speech & Language, math, and literacy tutoring. She will also be attending Kitchen Kids in the fall! Her recent progress...
GiGi’s Playhouse and the Impact of Career Development
The GiGi’s Playhouse Career Development programs are designed to give individuals with Down syndrome the skills needed to gain independent employment. Hugs & Mugs is the last step in the career development journey for our adult participants. In Hugs & Mugs, the interns work on a variety of certifications each...
Meet Farzin: A GiGi’s Playhouse Ambassador
Hello, my name is Farzin and I am an ambassador and self advocate at GiGi's Playhouse. I have attended programs at the Playhouse for 15 years. I am a GiGi U graduate, and I also am a GiGi’s ambassador and a marketing and social media intern. How did I get...
GiGiFIT Preschoolers: Building Strength and Confidence Through Play
Summer is here, and at GiGi's Playhouse, we are thrilled to announce that our GiGiFIT Preschoolers program is back in session! This exciting program, designed specifically for preschool-aged children with Down syndrome, promotes motor development and overall wellness through a fun and engaging fitness curriculum. What is GiGiFIT Preschoolers? The...
Thank you all: 2024 National/Hoffman GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge!!
On June 15, we hosted our annual GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge (GFAC). The challenge is simple, support our Hoffman Estates location and take part in the festivities. Show your commitment to the inclusion of those with Down syndrome and all unique abilities! With over 450+ participants and volunteers coming out to...
Why I Run: Team Sassy Savannah and Friends
GiGi’s Playhouse is thrilled to spotlight Team Sassy Savannah and Friends, who are once again participating in the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge. Their unwavering belief in GiGi’s Playhouse and its mission of global acceptance for all drives their dedication and commitment. Savannah and her family feel incredibly blessed to be surrounded...
Celebrating Success: A Reflection on GiGi’s Playhouse Spring 2024 End of Session Celebration!
As the vibrant hues of spring adorned the world outside, inside the walls of GiGi's Playhouse, there was an atmosphere of celebration and achievement. The occasion? The End of Session Celebration marking the culmination of the Spring 2024 program session—a time to honor the dedication, growth, and accomplishments of all...
Unlocking Potential Through LMNOP: A Tribute to Liz’s Dedication at GiGi’s Playhouse
At GiGi's Playhouse Hoffman Estates, our mission is to create a world where individuals with Down syndrome and their families are celebrated and supported. One of the ways we fulfill this mission is through our LMNOP program – Language, Music, N' Our Peeps. Today, we're thrilled to share the heartfelt...
Let’s Call Them What They Are; Adults
In most states in the United States of America, an adult is any person who is 18 years or older. This means that all people, regardless of ability, are considered adults when they turn 18 years old and should be referred to as such. It’s a simple concept to grasp...
The Remarkable Impact of Volunteers at GiGi’s Playhouse: Meet Karen Kibler
“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless” Volunteers are what make programs at GiGi’s Playhouse and Hugs & Mugs possible. We are 99% volunteer run, so without our incredible, dedicated, and amazing volunteers, we would not be able to continue to provide FREE programs to...
Unveiling the Heart of Learning: A Tutor’s Testimony at GiGi’s Playhouse
At GiGi's Playhouse, the spirit of one-on-one tutoring has always been free, but the bonds formed with participants are truly priceless! Han, a first-time math tutor in our Fall 2023 session, shares his inspiring journey and the profound connection he forged with Amanda. “On the first day I visited GiGi’s...