Worth the Drive

Many GiGi’s Playhouse locations serve a large metropolis area. Here in the Quad CIites, we’re a little unique.

We serve:

• 5+ cities that make up the Quad Cities (Yes, there were originally only 5)
• 2 states separated by the mighty Mississippi River
• many smaller rural towns and villages

Many of our families drive 30, 40, 60, and even 90 minutes to get to the Playhouse and participate in the FREE purposeful programs.

We reached out to a few families to see if they would share a bit about why the trip is worth the drive. This is what they shared.

“Attending events and participating in programs or activities is definitely worth our 90+ minute drive to GiGi’s Playhouse. We as a family feel encouraged by other families and the staff of GiGi’s Quad Cities. Our son is able to interact with other children who also have Down syndrome, receive quality tutoring from caring staff members, or participate in community, music, and art activities designed to support his needs at the Playhouse. But of course, his favorite parts are the toys! Thank you GiGi’s for your warm welcome to us from afar (and also for supporting us virtually!).” 

Chrystal T (Ashton’s Mom)

We lived locally when Z was born but have since moved a bit further from the Playhouse.

The uniquely focused activities, services, seeing all of our friends we’ve made over the years, and the FUN our daughter and we have makes the trip ALWAYS worth it.

Brian Y (Zoey’s Dad)

 Google tells me it’s one hour and three minutes from our farm to the Playhouse. The friendships made over the past ten-plus years will last a lifetime and light up our lives every time we reunite!

Cathy P (Levi’s Mom)

We are so grateful for the programs that GiGi’s provides.  The experiences and friendships that Matthew has made at GiGi’s makes our 90 minute drive well worth it.  The playhouse is a space that Matthew is comfortable in and everyone is so friendly and welcoming to him when we arrive.  We look forward to him participating in as many programs as possible.  

Angie B (Matthew’s Mom)

Some families visit the Playhouse weekly while others only come once a month. Either way, they come and we appreciate that they find the Playhouse and programs worth the drive.

If you’ve never been to the Playhouse, we’d love to give you a tour and tell you more about the free purposeful programs offered. Schedule your visit by calling 309-762-7529 or emailing quadcities@gigisplayhouse.org.