GiGi’s Playhouse Proudly sponsors NDSS Buddy Walk!

Greetings GiGi’s community!

I have the great honor and privilege of serving as GiGi’s Playhouse NYC’s Executive Director, having joined this exceptional organization in August. As I look to engage with our passionate community, I will be doing writing regular blog posts and creating monthly newsletters, so that all of you can be kept up-to-date on our exciting activities, upcoming events, and great successes!

As the new Executive Director of GiGi’s Playhouse NYC, I can think of no better introduction to the power and passion of the Down syndrome community than attending the NDSS Buddy Walk! The event was kicked-off in Times Square with a video that was sponsored in part, by GiGi’s Playhouse NYC. The inspiring video featured participants of GiGi’s, as well as men and women, boys and girls, with Down syndrome, from all over the country who are breaking down barriers and overcoming stereotypes. Among them were actors, college graduates and even one young woman who has addressed the United Nations on behalf of Down syndrome advocacy. Needless to say, the hour-long video was truly inspiring and empowering!

As though it wasn’t exciting enough to see GiGiPHNYC represented on the jumbotron in Times Square, after the video, some of the members of the GiGi’s community had the opportunity to meet and chat with former NFL running back, Zac Stacy! Mr. Stacy is actively involved in the Down syndrome community due to having a brother with Down syndrome. He couldn’t have been kinder, graciously posing for photos with us. He was additionally very interested in learning more about GiGi’s Playhouse, asking insightful questions and getting information as to how he may establish a playhouse where his brother lives.

Equally inspiring was the overall presence and energy that existed both in Times Square that morning, and at the Great Hill in Central Park, that afternoon, where the Buddy Walk itself, occurred. In Times Square, an area of New York City that is normally overrun with people engaged in the daily hustle of the city, was filled with hundreds of individuals with Down syndrome, family members and advocates, many of whom were moved to tears, watching the images on the jumbo-tron before them. Tourists and New Yorkers alike would halt in the middle of their morning hustle and bustle to also take in the beauty before them. Upon heading uptown to Central Park’s Great Hill for the walk itself, people were met with even more smiles, laughter, volunteerism and engagement, as area businesses, families and service organizations all had teams participating in the walk. Additionally, countless informational tables were set up, providing literature, goody bags, snacks and overall good cheer.

While great progress is being made toward changing society’s perception of Down syndrome, there are unfortunately still people who feel that it’s something unfortunate. I, however, could not be more fortunate to have spent the day in the presence of such joy, laughter, strength, education and empowerment; all of the things which GiGi’s Playhouse stands for. All of us at GiGi’s are looking forward to next year’s fun!

In gratitude –

Victoria B. Nadal