More Than Basketball: The Brothers Making a Difference

At GiGi's Playhouse New Orleans, our purposeful programs are only possible because of dedicated volunteers who generously share their time, talents, and energy with our community. This month, we're excited to recognize three volunteers who have made a big impact this summer: Will, Jack, and Jacob! Will, Jack, and Jacob...

Volunteer Spotlight: Gina’s Tutoring Experience

At GiGi's Playhouse New Orleans, we're proud to offer free 1:1 Math and Literacy Tutoring for individuals with Down syndrome ages 3 and up, and it's all made possible by the incredible dedication of our volunteer tutors! Their time, encouragement, and passion help our participants build confidence, achieve their goals,...
IMG_9965

Celebrating Matthew Rolfes, 2026 Graduate!

This month, we are excited to celebrate an incredible member of our GiGi's Playhouse New Orleans family, Matthew Rolfes! If you've spent any time at the Playhouse, chances are you've met Matthew. Known for his big smile, warm hugs, and kind heart, Matthew has a way of making everyone feel...

Program Spotlight: GiGiMOVE: Just Dance!

Every week at GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans, our GiGiMOVE: Just Dance! program fills the Playhouse with music, movement, and so much joy. What started as a single Wednesday evening class has grown into one of our most popular programs, now offered on Tuesday evenings from 5:00–6:00 PM, Wednesday mornings, Wednesday...

GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans x The Bead Shop

At GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans, we are incredibly grateful for the support of local businesses that believe in our mission and help us continue providing free, purposeful programming for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. We are excited to highlight our recent partnership with The Bead Shop! The Bead...
Emily Lin

Beyond Volunteering: What GiGi’s Playhouse Taught Me About People, Purpose, and Perspective 

I didn’t walk inside GiGi’s Playhouse expecting it to change me.  At first, it seemed like just another volunteer opportunity, something useful to put on a resume, a chance to “give back”, a few hours here and there. But this mentality did not last long. Because as soon as you walk into GiGi’s, you...

Sofia’s Spotlight: A Love for Music and Movement

This month, we’re excited to shine a spotlight on Sofia, whose energy and love for music bring so much excitement and joy to every program that she is a part of! When asked about her favorite part of GiGi’s Playhouse, Sofia shared that she loves spending time with her friends....

Volunteer Spotlight: Noa Dor

Hi! My name is Noa, and I’m a Junior at Tulane University studying Psychologyand Communications. Being an intern at Gigi’s Playhouse NOLA has been one ofthe most insightful and fun experiences I’ve had during my time in New Orleans.Gigi’s has been an incredible, constant organization throughout my academiccareer after working...
Email header for early giving

Help Us Stock the Playhouse This GiveNOLA Day

At GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans, everything we do is rooted in one simple promise: our programs are always FREE for every family who walks through our doors. Today, we are proud to serve 305 individuals and families across the Greater New Orleans area, providing educational, therapeutic, fitness, and career-focused programs...

Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day at GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans

World Down Syndrome Day is one of the most meaningful days of the year at GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans and we are so excited to celebrate with our entire community! Tomorrow, March 21, 2026 we will be hosting our annual World Down Syndrome Day Crawfish Boil in partnership with American...

GiGi’s Ambassador Craig Blackburn Inspires Future Dentists

At GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans, our ambassadors play an important role in changing the way the world views Down syndrome. Recently, our very own Ambassador and Board Member, Craig Blackburn, had the opportunity to do just that by speaking to students at LSU’s Dental School. Craig shared his personal experiences...

Volunteer With Us: Spring 2026 Event Opportunities

Spring is one of our busiest (and most joyful!) seasons at GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans, and we have several upcoming events that need the help of our incredible volunteer community. Whether you love hands-on event support or spreading the message of acceptance to thousands of people, there’s a role for...