No Matter What, No Matter When: GiGi’s Playhouse 2025 ‘i have a voice’ Gala 

No matter what, no matter when.   

On Saturday, February 22, GiGi’s Playhouse held its 2025 National ‘i have a voice’ Gala in Schaumburg, IL. A black-tie affair and celebratory party, the National ‘i have a voice’ Gala is the organization’s largest fundraiser, but the night was much more than a simple fundraiser.   

The ‘i have a voice’ Gala celebrated the incredible impact GiGi’s Playhouse has on 31,000 families worldwide while also highlighting the strength, resilience, and power of individuals with Down syndrome and the community that supports them.    

Co-hosted by GiGi’s Chief Inspiration Officer GiGi Gianni and actress, model, and advocate Amanda Booth, this year’s gala honored the siblings who play such a crucial role in the lives of our participants. Heartfelt speeches from siblings like Sarah Kate Komacki and Phillip Pedicone reminded us that siblings are some of the loudest and most passionate advocates for individuals with Down syndrome.   

The night also honored two pairs of siblings whose actions embody the values of GiGi’s Playhouse. Influencers Zach and Pat Valentine, better known as The Valentine Brothers, and influencers and advocates Valeriia and Anya Litvinova were awarded the #GenerationG Hero Award. Awarded to an individual, group, or organization, the #GenerationG Hero Award recognizes those who work to change how the world views those with disabilities.  Fitting with this year’s theme, the #GenerationG Hero Award recognized these two sibling pairs who are showing the world the upbeat, fun side of Down syndrome.   

Among the notable guests was Grey’s Anatomy star Caterina Scorsone, who’s also a mother to a child with Down syndrome and an incredible advocate. But beyond special guests, exciting auction prizes, fun bidding wars, and live music, a single phrase best summed up the night:    

No matter what, no matter when.   

The National ‘i have a voice’ Gala highlighted that GiGi’s Playhouse and the organization’s entire network of 61 Playhouses unconditionally support the Down syndrome community, no matter the circumstance. Whether it’s through providing FREE programming to a newborn, school-age child, or adult or simply being a pillar of support, community, and love to an entire family, GiGi’s Playhouse is there for everyone.   

The funds raised at our gala strengthen our organization’s commitment to continuing to be a reliable resource to the 300+ new families who join GiGi’s Playhouse each month. Every dollar donated by our generous supporters will allow us to continue empowering individuals with Down syndrome, giving them the voice and opportunities they deserve—no matter what, no matter when.