Posts by jscheel

On November 17, 2025, GiGi’s Playhouse had the joy of partnering with the Town of Cary’s Specialized Recreation Department to host our very first Friendsgiving celebration—and what a meaningful day it was. This special event brought together 10 GiGi’s adult program participants and 5 participants from the Town of Cary’s Specialized Recreation programs for an…

There is something truly special about the way the holiday season brings people together, and this year, our friends at SAS proved once again just how powerful community partnerships can be. For the second year in a row, SAS invited our GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh Handbells group to perform at their company holiday party—and once again,…

When I think about where my values of empathy, kindness, and inclusion began, my heart immediately goes to my grandmother—my Memom. If you asked anyone about her, they’d smile, laugh, and immediately start telling stories. She was the kindest soul, the best listener, and the warmest laugh in any room. Everyone adored her, but for me, she was pure happiness. I have countless…

As many of our long-time “core littles” head off to school, we’re opening our doors to a brand-new generation of families at GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh! To help new parents and babies begin their journey with us, we’re thrilled to introduce A Gentle Start at GiGi’s — a monthly group designed specifically for infants ages 0–12…

On October 10th, GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh hosted our annual “I Have a Voice” Gala, and it was truly a night to remember. With 300 guests in attendance, the room was filled with excitement, joy, and an overwhelming sense of community. This event serves as one of our largest celebrations of the year, bringing together families, friends,…

At GiGi’s Playhouse, we believe that every milestone deserves to be celebrated — no matter how big or small. For 12-year-old Maneet, one of those milestones happened in the most unexpected place: the kitchen. When Maneet joined GiGi’s Kitchen in early 2024, he brought with him a bright smile, a curious spirit, and a few…

This summer, we welcomed a very special new participant to our GiGiFit kids program: a young girl named Isabella.  Isabella arrived late in the season, during a time when most of our regular participants were already familiar with the routines, activities, and high energy that GiGiFit is known for. But for Isabella, everything was brand…

When I think about GiGi’s Playhouse, one word immediately comes to mind: joy. Time and time again, I leave the playhouse with a huge smile on my face. Everyone who walks in the door is immediately surrounded by love and support. The volunteers, staff, and board members are deeply passionate about what they do, and…

This past weekend was one of those days that remind us why we do what we do. GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh had the incredible privilege of participating in Victory Day with NC State Football for the seventh year in a row, and words can hardly capture what it meant for our participants, their families, and our…

At GiGi’s Playhouse, we love to highlight “Best of All” moments—those times when participants stretch themselves, try something new, and discover just how capable they truly are. This June, we were thrilled to witness not one, but two inspiring “Best of All” stories. Fiona and Meredith, both adults in our GiGi University program, began their…