2017 National GiGi’s Conference
This past week and weekend, staff and board members had the opportunity to attend the 2017 National GiGi’s conference in Schaumburg, IL. It was a great time of learning and inspiration. There were sessions to help with fundraising, programming, donation processing, and board engagement plus others. We were able to...
Down Syndrome Acceptance Month – 21 Acts of Kindness
Down Syndrome Acceptance Month – 21 Acts of Kindness It’s already the middle of October which means we are half way through Down syndrome awareness/acceptance month. You may have noticed that we have not been posting daily regarding Down Syndrome Acceptance month. We’ve seen the cute photos with the facts...
Everyday Speech and Language Skills: Bath Time
Everyday Speech and Language Skills: Bath Time Here it is October already! We have had a great time at race and are so lucky to continue to provide programs and support to our families. This month let’s talk about bath time. This time of the day is such a great...
Together!
The 2017 Superhero Run, Walk and Dash for Down Syndrome is just one week away. Last year we had approximately 700 people in attendance and we are on target to reach that again this year. Friends, family members, coworkers, and neighbors will come together to support local individuals with Down...
“mini reunion”
The first Saturday in October is now permanently reserved for our family. The GiGi’s Superhero 5K/Walk/Dash has become like a mini reunion. Each year it is an amazing gathering of friends and family, but most importantly, we get to celebrate our little superhero, Gavin. As a parent, it is deeply moving to see...
drumming the night away
Last week, we had a community member come to the Playhouse to share her drums and other musical items. She is from the Clinton, IA area. She is the Early Childhood Iowa Director for Clinton and Jackson Counties and the Community Partnerships for Protecting Children Coordinator for Scott, Clinton, and...
Volunteer Spotlight – Jami
This month we would like to recognize Jami as our Volunteer Spotlight! This summer was the first time Jami volunteered at the Playhouse. She volunteered as a tutor for three lucky students and she tutored in math and literacy. She is a Title 1 reading teacher at Erie Elementary in...
Everyday Speech and Language Skills: In Your Morning Routine
Everyday Speech and Language Skills: In Your Morning Routine We are back again this month with more ideas on how to incorporate speech and language skills into everyday routines. This week we will be touching on your morning routine. We know, mornings can be tough, everyone must get ready, eat...
Everyday Speech and Language Skills: At The Dinner Table
Everyday Speech and Language Skills: At The Dinner Table We are going to start a new series about how to incorporate speech and language activities in your everyday routines. One of the most beneficial and one I have fond memories of when I was a child was talking at the...
A race of a different kind!
All the hype right now is our upcoming Superhero 5K, 1 Mile Walk and Kids Dash for Down Syndrome. We’re super excited and hope you are too! The Superhero run/walk is October 7th at Veterans Memorial Park in Bettendorf but we’re writing today to talk about a race of a...
Volunteer or Participant?
Volunteer or Participant? Who says you have to be one or the other? We have GREAT volunteers here at GiGi’s and we’re always looking for more. Some of our best volunteers are family members but we LOVE it when our adult participants step up to help. Please meet Michael! He...