Posts by Suzanne Scott
The Awesome Jain Legacy at GiGi’s: Family, Heart, and Impact
From Teen Tastic to major events, the Jain family shows what it means to give time, talent, and treasure. The Jain Family is a shining example of dedication, love, and generosity at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County. Their involvement touches every corner of our Playhouse, from volunteering in programs to supporting events and advocating for our…
Read MoreGiGi’s Supply Closet: The HUGE Heart Behind the Hinges
How a Simple Supply Closet Powers Big Impact at GiGi’s Playhouse At first glance, the supply closet at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County may seem like just a small, functional space tucked away from the vibrant energy of our programs and activities. It may not have the bright murals of our play areas or the welcoming…
Read MoreTeam X: Where 100% Excellent Meets 100% Impact
The Mendex Family, Team X, and the Power of Showing Up The Mendez family truly embodied the spirit of “Best of All” at this year’s Run for 21 and GFAC event. Together, they raised over $3,000 for GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County, an incredible effort that made a powerful impact. Eleven-year-old Xavier is a joyful, active,…
Read MoreHannah the Hero with a Heart on the Go
The Heartbeat of GiGi’s: Honoring Volunteers Like Hannah At GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County, volunteers aren’t just helpful. They’re essential. In fact, 99% of the work that happens here is made possible because of volunteers. From leading group programs and providing 1:1 tutoring to serving on our Board, planning our events, and steering our committees, our…
Read MoreWatching Parker Grow at GiGi’s Playhouse: From Sweet Baby Steps to Full Sprints
Let’s get to know Parker Reeves and his family If you have ever been at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County, chances are you have seen Parker. He is the tiny blur racing down the hallway, bursting with joy, blowing kisses, giving hugs, and lighting up the room with his infectious energy. At just four years old,…
Read MoreRun 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…
Read MoreLEGO Fun Unleashed at GiGi’s Playhouse OC’s Teen Tastic
Generous highschooler donates brand new LEGOs to GiGi’s Playhouse Orange Count Ryan Shi is a true Best of All inspiration at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County. As a leader with the Buddies Beyond Boundaries club at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, Ryan brought his creativity and compassion to life by organizing a LEGO Party for our…
Read MoreDeeba Making a Delightful Difference
At GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County, Deeba’s kindness, leadership, and heart for inclusion shine bright At GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County, we’re lucky to be surrounded by volunteers who bring passion, patience, and positivity to everything they do. One exceptional young person who embodies these values is Deeba Badie- a teen whose heart for service shines in…
Read MoreLiving the Wonderful Weis Way
The Weis family is building connection, spreading kindness, and making memories at GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County A beautiful aspect of GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County is the connection built not only among individuals with Down syndrome, but among their siblings as well. It is powerful to watch siblings come together, share their journeys, and support one…
Read MoreCatherine McPhee’s Extraordinary Mission to Empower the Down Syndrome Community
Catherine McPhee Leads with Purpose and Love to Uplift the Down Syndrome Community Catherine McPhee is a force of nature within GiGi’s Playhouse Orange County, dedicating her time, expertise, and heart to our mission long before we even opened our doors. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Catherine’s advocacy is deeply personal – her beloved…
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