October 2019 Happenings

October 2019 GiGi's 2019 Superhero 5K, 1 Mile Walk and Kids Dash Ready! Get Set! Run, Walk or Dash! Build more ACCEPTANCE for kids and adults with Down syndrome! We can't wait to run, walk, dash and celebrate with you! This family-friendly morning brings together new friends, families, community members...
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Welcome Hilary – Volunteer Coordinator

Several months ago, we put out a plea looking for a volunteer to help with the coordination of new volunteers. Hilary responded RIGHT AWAY that she was interested. However, she was awaiting the arrival of a new baby. Fast forward a few month, baby has arrived, and she is now...

Parent Perspective – Jack’s Mom

When we were expecting our first child in 2017, we learned that there was a high chance that our unborn son would have Down syndrome.  We did some research but were hesitant to reach out to anyone without knowing we were officially going to be parents of a child with...

September 2019 Happenings

September 2019 2 & Under (Birth-2 years) 2 and Under is the perfect place for children to meet new friends, learn and grow; while parents have the opportunity to socialize and network with one another! Click here to RSVP for September 12th 9:00 – 10:00 am LMNOP (Birth-5 years) LMNOP...

August 2019 Happenings

August 2019 Music Therapy (Birth-3 years & 4-8 years) Come move, sing, and play instruments with us as we address communication, following directions, and so much more! These music therapy sessions are provided by West Music and a board-certified music therapist! Registration for this 10-week music therapy session is closed. The...

60+ Volunteers!

Another John Deere Classic has come and gone! Most of you know that GiGi’s works a concession stand all week in exchange for a percentage from the food and beverage sales. Participating in this event and overseeing a stand takes LOTS of help. With over 60 volunteer shifts to fill,...
Program Leaders

Thank You – Program Leaders

All programming is offered at no cost to families here at GiGi’s. That is made possible thanks to the program leaders that volunteer their time and talents to plan, implement, and oversee the programs. We are so thankful for our current program leaders and would like to give a shout...

July 2019 Happenings

July 2019 Music Therapy (Birth-3 years & 4-8 years) Come move, sing, and play instruments with us as we address communication, following directions, and so much more! These music therapy sessions are provided by West Music and a board-certified music therapist! Registration for this 10-week music therapy session is closed. The...
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4 Apps for Introducing Speech Skills with Technology

As a Speech and Language Pathologist, I get asked a TON of questions about speech and language development. Most recently though, the questions have not been “how do I get my child to talk?” but more “what apps do you recommend we use with our child to help them?” This...

Meet Marika

Some of you may have met Marika in the past couple of months. She volunteered for a short internship this spring (she was at Gala) and has come back as a summer Intern. She will be overseeing the Music Therapy program as well as Fantastic Friends and helping at the...

Summer 2019 Tutoring

Summer 2019 Tutoring kicks off this week! We are so excited to have 19 weekly one-on-one programming sessions on the schedule. This is made possible thanks to the volunteer tutors that will be providing the free tutoring sessions to individuals ages 2.5 years up to 18! Yes, up to 18!!...

Memories & Connections

To all my friends at the Quad Cities Playhouse, I want to say ‘thank you’ for allowing me to be a part of your GiGi’s family. From the moment I walked in, I have been greeted with nothing but warm smiles and open arms from everyone I’ve met. This experience...