Why GiGi’s? | Sandy

So many reasons! In a city where many families face day-to-day economic challenges, I love that GiGi’s provides FREE programming to individuals with Down syndrome, so that their loved ones never have to face financial barriers to promote achievement. For example, GiGi’s offers therapeutic sessions that enhance speech and motor skills – physical skills to strengthen balance and coordination, and even help on how to grasp a pencil– all of which can be difficult for people with DS because of low muscle tone. In fact, there’s also a whole set of Gigi FIT programming geared towards promoting exercise, health and fitness in the DS population who are typically challenged with low metabolism and a higher risk of obesity. Did I mention this is FREE?

There’s also the fact that GiGi’s programming includes people with DS of all ages. From early education (age 0-3) programs, to one-on-one literacy and math tutoring, to career training and professional skills development programs, GiGi’s does it all! And GiGi’s is constantly introducing new programming and enhancing existing programs. A wonderful advantage of having a network of 46 Playhouses is sharing best practices and testing out new programs in one or two locations for the benefit of all!

But perhaps the biggest reason we need GiGi’s is that GiGi’s mission includes outreach efforts such as the Generation G campaign (Be Accepting, Be Generous, Be Kind) to educate our communities that people with DS are worthy, are loved, and they can contribute to society in meaningful ways. My hope is that in bringing GiGi’s to New Orleans, we can send that message loud and clear, so that we can grow opportunities for people with DS in our local community,increase the number of adults with DS that are gainfully employed

I cried for days after the birth of my daughter ten years ago, stricken with fear about her future. Our reality is so very different from what I thought it would be! My Ella is a true blessing to all of us who adore her. She has many friends, and she loves school, swimming, singing and dancing. But it hasn’t been easy, and we work hard every day. My family is fortunate to have access to a lot of resources and I want to be able to give every child with DS in the New Orleans area that same access to opportunity and achievement. I also want every person with DS to be able to live in this great city with a community that appreciates them, that understands that people with DS can achieve what they set their mind to, that they are more alike to us than different. I want my daughter and her friends to live in a city embraces and celebrates the differences, as only a place like New Orleans knows how.

See you at the Playhouse!