Run for 21: A SUPER Record-Breaking Day of Joy, Community, and Momentum

Walk or Run – GiGi’s Playhouse OC is Raising Awareness about Down Syndrome

On June 14, 2025, the Oso Trail in Mission Viejo came alive with capes, cheers, and community spirit as over 200 participants gathered for our annual Run for 21: GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge for GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County. And what a day it was. With 207 registered participants, up from 151 in 2024, and a staggering $30,300 raised, we nearly tripled last year’s total. That number isn’t just a dollar amount. It’s a testament to the power of families, friends, and volunteers rallying together to celebrate inclusion and advocacy for individuals with Down syndrome.

Eight incredible families each raised over $2,000, earning them a well-deserved spot as the faces of our front windows at the Playhouse. Their passion and persistence energized the event and set the tone for an unforgettable morning. Prizes were handed out left and right, but the real reward was the shared joy that pulsed through the entire trail. Everyone showed up with heart, and it showed.

This year, we made a few strategic changes that paid off. Moving from the reserved patio to the open field gave us more space to breathe, connect, and play, and it truly elevated the experience. The new orange START tunnel didn’t just give us great visibility. It elevated the entire vibe, making the event feel more official and festive. Nearly everyone embraced the superhero theme, wearing capes and masks. Yard signs marked the course clearly, and the custom-painted tunnel became the go-to photo op of the day. Add in face painting, games, music, snacks, and the electric energy of our SMCHS student volunteers, and you’ve got an event that people are already asking to repeat.

The SMCHS students deserve special recognition. They didn’t just show up. They helped lead, cheer, support, clean, and guide participants every step of the way. Events like this depend on volunteers who take their role seriously and bring joy while doing it. These students did exactly that and made a lasting impression on our families.

Of course, there’s still room to grow. Sponsorships fell short this year, and that limited our ability to reach our $40,000 goal. We had the momentum. What we lacked was the funding to fully capitalize on it. Next year, we need to be more intentional in building partnerships, especially with local businesses that could underwrite specific costs like our window graphics. A relationship with a local print shop would not only help offset expenses but also invite the community into our mission in a more tangible and visible way.

Looking ahead to 2026, one critical next step is identifying a dedicated chairperson who can lead the planning efforts. This role is essential for keeping momentum going and ensuring the event continues to grow without losing its heart. Strong leadership and clear communication will be key as we take the event to the next level.

With a stronger sponsorship strategy, continued support from our incredible board and planning committee, and a renewed focus on community engagement, there’s no reason we can’t hit or exceed that $40,000 goal next year. The 2025 Run for 21 proved what’s possible when families, volunteers, and champions of all ages come together. It was more than a fundraiser. It was a celebration of ability, love, and strength.

The bar has been raised. Let’s rise to meet it, and then push it even higher.

GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, purposeful programming to individuals with Down syndrome and their families. From fitness and education to social and life skills programs, every offering is designed to support growth, confidence, and connection. We rely entirely on the generosity of donors, as we are 100% funded by our local community. Every dollar raised stays right here in Orange County, helping us continue to change lives and spread a message of acceptance for all.