It was an eye-opening experience for me.
Coming to GiGi’s for the first time was, in all honesty, very overwhelming on the drive over. Tears were shed. Emotions were still raw and I didn’t know if I was ready to step into that environment. But - I am so glad I did. You and everyone else that...
I developed so many amazing friendships that week as a volunteer at at GiGi’s Adventures camp
Here at GiGi's, through purposeful programs in the playhouse and off site, we are exposing our friends to new experiences that are promoting independence, boosting confidence and encouraging them to believe in themselves! Each summer at our location, we offer GiGi's Adventures Camp style program. We are gearing up for...
Playhouse #43 is open and “The GiGi” is a BOSS!
After a whirlwind weekend at the Grand Opening of our 43 GiGi’s location in Charlotte North Carolina, GiGi still managed to unpack and get herself ready for school. As she was leaving for school, she said: “Can I go to the board meeting tonight after my work out?” The girl...
GiGi’s Playhouse is a welcoming space
Hi, my name is Lauren! I am an Occupational Therapy Doctoral student at Virginia Commonwealth University. I am currently completing my doctoral project at GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh, focusing on observation and evaluation of many of the therapeutic and educational programs that GiGi’s provides for FREE! It has been amazing to...
GiGi’s Playhouse is more than a place – it’s such a supportive community.
Hi, my name is Ashley, and I live in Chapel Hill. I volunteer regularly with Fantastic Friends at GiGi’s Playhouse Chapel Hill satellite location. Adult participants get together monthly for social activities, games, a craft, and a snack. Some months we enjoy a movie and popcorn together instead. It’s great...
Volunteering at GiGi’s has honestly changed my life, and I just love being there!
Volunteering at GiGi's has honestly changed my life, and I just love being there! Helping with the programs at GiGi's, especially Young Athletes, is the best part of my week. I am always looking forward to the next time I get to be there. Over the past couple of...
Meet Paislee!
As told by Paislee’s mom, Ashley Paislee, our 18-month daughter, started attending GiGi’s Playhouse in 2017 when she was just three months old. At the time of Paislee’s birth in May, they weren’t sure what made her extra special, so she was flown to Springfield where she had genetic testing...
I came in believing I was just a tutor and left feeling I had a gained one of the most beautiful and meaningful friendships
I came in believing I was just a tutor and left feeling I had a gained one of the most beautiful and meaningful friendships I could ever have asked for. In just 10 weeks Mason and I learned so much from one another. He gained confidence in his ability to...
“My week is brightened knowing that Jessica and I are not just reading together but building a friendship.”
“This is the day you begin to find the places inside your laughter and your lunches, your books, your travel and your stories, where every new friend has something a little like you—and something else so fabulously not quite like you at all.” The Day You Begin By Jacqueline Woodson...
“When I see the excitement in her eyes when she knows we are going to GiGi’s…”
My name is Madeline, and I have a beautiful, sassy, 7 year old daughter named Caroline. I became involved in the Down Syndrome community almost immediately after Caroline was born and I received her diagnosis. We were active members of the Triangle Down Syndrome Network, and appreciated the support and...
“It’s a true eye opener for us to see how much more Jessica has to offer the world!”
Our families + volunteers at GiGi's are amazing. We are constantly seeing the impact GiGi's programs have on our participants. Through the FREE programs and opportunities GiGi's provides- our community and families are seeing how much individuals with Down syndrome have to offer the world. #GenerationG #bestofall Jessica is 26...
I LOVE watching our amazing friends learn, grow and become more confident in their social skills!”
Our September volunteer spotlight goes to two incredible ladies. Maddie and Gretchen who co-led 21STARS our after school program which focuses on social skills, gratitude committee and literacy/math components. During this program they are able to witness growth, friendships, ability and confidence through the activities they design. Maddie is now...