Program Spotlight: Art Explosion
On October 13th, the Art Explosion class hosted a terrific art show, allowing them to present and explain their artwork to other fellow participants as well as family members. After six weeks of creating, practicing, and exploring new techniques, they shared their pieces and the stories behind them with fellow...
Trunk or Treat Fun!
The annual Trunk or Treat took place Sunday, October 26th, hosted by Post 350 and the Scouts of America. It was a fun-filled night with plenty of sweets and laughter. Here are a few highlights from the night: Everyone went above and beyond on their trunk decorations. Here are some...
A Little Something Extra: A Night to Remember at the Lagniappe Gala
On October 4, 2025, the Playhouse was glowing, not just from the twinkling lights, but from the love and energy of 160 guests who came together to celebrate our participants and the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans. The Lagniappe Gala, themed “A Little Something Extra,” embodied everything that makes...
Celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month!
October is right around the corner, which means it's almost time to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month! DSAM is a month to raise awareness about Down syndrome, celebrate our loved ones with Down syndrome, and advocate for the inclusion and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome. At GiGi’s Playhouse New...
Celebrating Craig Blackburn: A Champion for Advocacy and Inclusion
This summer, GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans was proud to see our board member and self-advocate, Craig Blackburn, shine on a national stage. From July 23–27, Craig attended the National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) Convention in Dallas, Texas, where he continued his work as a leader, role model, and voice for...
Celebrating Our Amazing Volunteers!
Last week, we gathered to celebrate the heart of GiGi’s Playhouse — our volunteers! From tutoring and leading programs to lending a hand at special events, our volunteers are the reason GiGi’s continues to grow and thrive. At our Volunteer Appreciation Party, we shared plenty of laughs while playing the...
Practical Tools for Teaching Students with Down Syndrome – GiGi’s Educator Symposium 2025
Are you an educator, therapist, paraprofessional, or professional working with individuals with Down syndrome? If so, the GiGi’s Educator Symposium 2025 is designed for you! This year’s symposium will take place on Saturday, September 20th. It is FREE, fully VIRTUAL, and packed with practical strategies you can bring back to...
Celebrating Julia: 2025 Ruby’s Rainbow Ro Atchison Scholarship Recipient
We are excited to share that GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans participant and volunteer, Julia DiRe, has been awarded the 2025 Ruby’s Rainbow Ro Atchison Scholarship! “I am honored to receive the Ruby’s Rainbow Ro Atchison scholarship. It really means a lot to me! This makes me feel confident for you...
Best of All Moment: Whitney Dances Through July
Since joining our programs at GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans earlier this month, Whitney has truly blossomed into a bright and joyful presence. With a song always on her lips and dance moves that light up the room, Whitney brings energy, laughter, and music wherever she goes. Her joy is infectious, and...
Volunteer Spotlight: Renee Scoggins — Sharing Her Passion Through Art & Friendship
At GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans, we are incredibly lucky to have passionate, dedicated volunteers who bring their talents and heart to our community. One of those shining stars is Renee Scoggins, a self-taught artist whose warmth and creativity have made a lasting impact on our participants and families. Renee began...
Music Makers: Empowering Participants with Down Syndrome Through the Power of Music
GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans is proud to present Music Makers, our popular summer music therapy program designed specifically for children, teens, and young adults with Down syndrome. Now in its fourth year, this 10-week series, led by licensed music therapist, Jeremy Love, from Love’s Music Therapy LLC, provides a fun...
Best of All Moment: Lauren the Movie Buff Meets Reading Comprehension
At GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans, we celebrate “Best of All” moments—those small yet meaningful breakthroughs that remind us why purposeful programming matters. Recently, one of those moments came during a Literacy tutoring session with Lauren. Lauren is full of personality. She’s an artist, a singer, a game show aficionado, and...