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 incredibly hard working volunteers spend 30-45 minutes each shift working on these certifications with the interns. Once all of the certifications are passed, the interns are eligible for independent employment or a volunteer opportunity in the community. GiGi’s Playhouse then helps to place the intern in the community!  
 
There are a total of 9 certifications in Hugs & Mugs: Work Readiness, Professionalism, Counting Money, Shipping, Point of Sale, Fulfillment, Inventory, Product Development, and Product Presentation. In working on these certifications, the Hugs & Mugs interns are learning valuable skills that will make them valuable employees or volunteers in the community.