Empowering Families: Practical Guidance on Puberty from Terri C.
We were honored to welcome Terri Couwenhoven, M.S., AASECT Certified Sex Educator, to GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee for an incredibly meaningful workshop focused on the top issues and concerns families face during puberty. Many of our GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee families joined us both in-person and virtually, demonstrating just how important and...
Volunteer Spotlight: Past Treasurer Mike W.
From the moment Mike W. said “yes” in 2019, GiGi's Playhouse Milwaukee gained more than a treasurer. We gained a steady hand, a strategic thinker, and a generous, no-nonsense leader who deeply believes in our mission. Serving on the Board from 2019-2025, Mike brought both heart and discipline to his...
Participant Best of All: Katya K.
Katya K. truly embodies what “Best of All” means at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee. Week after week, she shows up with a warm smile, ready not only to participate but to lift up her friends at GiGi's. Katya regularly supports her peers in thoughtful, meaningful ways whether that’s helping a friend...
Crafting Connections: A Heartfelt Success at Our Wreath Workshop
There is something truly magical about what happens when creativity meets community. This Valentine’s Day season, GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee hosted a special Valentine’s Day Wreath Workshop, and the results were nothing short of inspiring. The event invited the public to gather for an afternoon of crafting all while supporting a vital cause. Participants...
Volunteer Spotlight: Board President Erin A. & Past President Sue P.
At the core of GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee are two extraordinary leaders whose dedication defines our community: our President, Erin Anderson, and our Past President, Sue Pelikan. While many see the vibrant programs and smiling faces at the Playhouse, few witness the tireless work Erin and Sue perform behind the scenes. Their longevity...
Volunteer Spotlight: Genna Z.
We get goosebumps every time we welcome a volunteer who is truly committed, someone eager to learn more about our community and build meaningful relationships with our participants and families. Enter Genna Z., our youngest active volunteer at just about 16 years old. Genna is 16 going on 30, remarkably...
Cookies with Santa at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee
We’re still smiling about the sweet memories from GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee’s annual Cookies with Santa event! With over 50 friends in attendance, the Playhouse was buzzing with laughter, joy, and holiday cheer. There’s truly nothing better than seeing our community come together in a space filled with warmth, excitement, and festive spirit....
Participant Best of All: Griffin D.
Griffin has shown tremendous growth through his participation in the Amina Grace One-on-One Speech Program at GiGi’s Milwaukee. Thanks to the strong partnership with the Marquette Speech and Language Department, he has received individualized, consistent support that has helped him build important communication skills. Over time, Griffin has made significant...
Milwaukee Ballet Brings Nutcracker Magic to GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee
This winter season, GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee was filled with extra sparkle, twirls, and holiday magic as the Milwaukee Ballet generously provided free Nutcracker-themed dance workshops for our participants. It was a beautiful example of what happens when nonprofits, local organizations, and families come together in the spirit of inclusion and...
Volunteer Spotlight: Lynn Rekoske
At GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee, our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do and few embody that spirit more wholeheartedly than Lynn Rekoske. For several years, Lynn has poured her time, passion, and kindness into our community, helping our participants grow, learn, and shine. Lynn’s volunteer journey with GiGi’s began...
Participant Best of All: Andrew H.
Andrew H. has truly embodied the spirit of “Best of All” through his outstanding dedication to GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee adult programs and special events. As a regular participant in GiGiFIT Adult at both locations, he arrives ready to work hard, and challenge himself. His enthusiasm inspires those around him, and...
Still Glowing from Halloween Fun at GiGi’s!
It might say November on the calendar, but we’re still grinning from all the Halloween fun at GiGi’s Playhouse Milwaukee! Halloween can be spooky — but Down syndrome isn’t. At GiGi's we love to dispel the myths surrounding Down syndrome and to show that our friends are more like their...