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Kiera is a long time participant at GiGi’s Playhouse, participating in a variety of programs like GiGiFIT Adult, Fantastic Friends, GiGiU, GiGi Professionals, and GiGi Ambassadors. Kiera first joined us over 8 years ago when she began her Career Development Journey. She started GiGiU with the goal of becoming employed and her goal has now…

This month, we are recognizing Shelly Collins, a dedicated mom and volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse. She spends her Tuesday’s and Thursday’s here at the playhouse, guiding our adults during GiGiFIT. We asked her to share a little bit of the impact volunteering has had. “The Down Syndrome community has always been extremely important to me…

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 fundraiser, supporting our free educational…

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 has been imminent through her…

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 shift that they work. Our…

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 started as a GiGi’s Ambassador?…

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 GiGiFIT curriculum incorporates the following…

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 support our mission of acceptance,…

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 by a supportive and loving…

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 157 participants who embarked on…