THE PROGRAM I WISH EXISTED 20 YEARS AGO WHEN MY SON WAS BORN WITH DOWN SYNDROME
One of the most powerful ways we can support the future health, confidence, independence, and quality of life of individuals with Down syndrome is by partnering with families, caregivers, and organizations to implement simple, meaningful habits with nourishing foods. Nutrition is one of the most direct links between our genes,...
Why Guitar Group?
When people hear about our Guitar Group at GiGi’s Playhouse, they often ask a simple question: Why guitar? The answer is simple: because everyone deserves the opportunity to learn and enjoy music. To borrow a phrase from the Miracle League, whose slogan is “Because everyone deserves a chance to play...
Expanding Our Reach Through Satellite Locations
Chapel Hill Fayetteville Clayton At GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh, our mission has always been simple: bring purposeful, free programming and support to as many families as possible. While our physical playhouse is located in Raleigh, we know there are families all across North Carolina searching for programs, resources, and community connections like ours. That’s exactly why our...
GiGi Professional – GiGi’s Blooms
We’re so excited to be building our program GiGi’s Blooms here at the Playhouse. It’s a program that combines creativity, community, and heartfelt work with our Adults. GiGi’s Blooms was spearheaded by our Executive Director, Dana Ramsey, to continue to expand the professional opportunities supported at GiGi’s for our participants....
Growing Together : Cultivating Confidence, Connection, and Joy Through Nature
Have you heard of therapeutic horticulture? It may sound like a big or complicated term, but it is actually pretty simple. Therapeutic horticulture uses gardening and nature activities to help improve health, confidence, emotional well-being, and social connection. Best of all,it is for everyone. At GiGi's Playhouse, we are excited...
Why Starting Swim Lessons Early Matters—Especially for Children with Down Syndrome
Introducing your child to the water at a young age is one of the most valuable gifts you can give them. Swim lessons are not just about learning how to float or kick—they build confidence, promote safety, and support overall development. For children with Down syndrome, swim lessons can be...
Brewing Inclusion: How GiGi’s Playhouse and Holy Grounds at Cardinal Gibbons Are Changing What Community Looks Like
At GiGi’s Playhouse, the mission has always been clear: change the way the world views Down syndrome and send a global message of acceptance for all. But sometimes, the most powerful shifts don’t happen through big campaigns—they happen quietly, in everyday spaces. Places like a high school coffee shop. At Cardinal Gibbons High...
Celebrating Community, Connection, and Joy: Our World Down Syndrome Day Event!
On March 21st, we had the incredible honor of celebrating World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) together at the Playhouse—and it truly exceeded anything we could have imagined. From the moment families began arriving at 10:00 AM to our final goodbyes at 1:00 PM, the space was filled with laughter, joy,...
Office Hours with Alana!
Since August 2025, we’ve had the joy of welcoming Alana to our team at GiGi's Playhouse as a dedicated MSW intern. Currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at North Carolina State University, Alana has quickly become a trusted and valued presence among our staff, participants, and families. Her warmth, empathy, and steady...
Passion in Action: Fran’s Incredible Impact on LMNOP
We are so excited to shine our Volunteer Spotlight on Fran — a dedicated, compassionate leader who has made an extraordinary impact on our GiGi’s community. Fran is a former Special Education and Reading Intervention Teacher who has been volunteering with us for just over a year. From the very...
Small Steps, Big Milestones: Celebrating Alton
We’re thrilled to spotlight Alton — lovingly known as Al — a bright and joyful two-year-old who has become a familiar and much-loved face at GiGi’s over the past year. From the moment he walks through the doors, Al brings an infectious energy that lights up the room. His warm...
Creating with Confidence: The Launch of GiGi’s Studio
A recent Playhouse inspiration was the launch of something truly special: the very first GiGi’s Studio, a collaborative arts program designed to nurture creativity, confidence, and community. This new initiative brings a local Artist in Residence into the Playhouse to work closely with small groups of two to four participants...