Best of All

Participant Best of All

This summer, we launched an all-new program called Music Makers – Rock Band for ages 16 and up. This group has met every Thursday since the beginning of June to learn different instruments and skills. After months of practicing they performed twice in October. Their first performance was the highlight of our parking lot party to help kick off Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Later in the month, they performed during the gala. We’re so proud of them for giving this their #bestofall and becoming the GiGi’s Rock Band!

If you missed the performances or want to see the band again, come to the Holiday Party!

Saturday, December 14th, from 5:00 – 8:00 pm at the Viking Club in Moline.

Register to attend by clicking here.

Volunteer Spotlight

The annual gala requires many volunteers leading up to, during, and the days after the event. The planning for the event begins a year in advance. A committee of 8 people meets regularly to decide the venue, meals, theme, and more. This year the committee was led by Hilary Oliver and while she did get a thank you from the stage at the gala we feel she deserves more than that and wanted to give her the highlight she deserves. Over the past year, she helped coordinate the committee meetings, communicated with the venue, met with the speakers, and picked up auction items and printed materials. On top of that, she even took time off of work to assist with items (signage, auctions, etc.) the week of the event and helped until the very end of the event. She was also responsible for the amazing couch and lamp that were part of the photo backdrop for the night. Many thanks to Hilary for being the co-chair and the entire committee for all they do!

PS If you’d like to be part of the planning committee for the 2025 gala, please let us know!

Playhouse Inspiration

This year we hosted a Parking Lot Party on October 1st. This event was planned with 3 things in mind.

A celebration for families to kick off Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
Appreciation for volunteers who help throughout the year with programs and events.
Awareness and recruitment for new volunteers specifically new board members.

The event exceeded our wildest dreams. Close to 150 people were in attendance. We met many new friends and enjoyed a nice night in our parking lot with yummy food, friends, and entertainment from GiGi’s Rock Band! We’re pretty sure this is going to become an annual event!