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 has been imminent through her…

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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 shift that they work. Our…

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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 started as a GiGi’s Ambassador?…

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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 GiGiFIT curriculum incorporates the following…

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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 support our mission of acceptance,…

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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 by a supportive and loving…

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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 in theory, but in reality,…

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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 individuals with Down syndrome and…

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