Community
Love and Selflessness at GiGi’s Playhouse: A Valentine’s Day Reflection
At GiGi’s Playhouse, nestled in the heart of our community, Valentine’s Day took on a special significance this year—a reminder of the profound love and selflessness that define our shared journey. Marissa, a cherished participant in our programs, left a sealed envelope on our desks labeled “GiGi’s Playhouse Donation.” Inside, we found a single dollar.…
Read MoreBattling Winter Blues with Friendship: A Special Invitation from GiGi’s
As winter settles in, many of us find ourselves grappling with the winter blues. The colder temperatures, shorter days, and lack of sunlight can take a toll on our mood and motivation. For individuals living with Down syndrome or intellectual disabilities, these challenges can be even more pronounced. However, amidst the winter gloom, there’s a…
Read MoreEmbracing the Spirit of Giving: A Heartwarming Celebration with SAS Volunteers
At GiGi’s Playhouse, this month is all about celebrating the incredible spirit of our dedicated volunteers, and there’s a special group that holds a special place in our hearts – our volunteers from SAS. These amazing individuals generously devote their time to us at least a couple of times a year, and recently, they went…
Read MoreGiving Thanks at GiGi’s Playhouse: A Season of Gratitude
As we approach the Thanksgiving season, there’s no better time to reflect on the countless blessings in our lives. At GiGi’s Playhouse, a place that embodies the spirit of inclusion and community, we find ourselves surrounded by reasons to be thankful. This season, let’s take a moment to appreciate the incredible individuals, families, volunteers, and…
Read More“Your child has Down syndrome” written by Playhouse Mom, Cheryl Byrne
My heart is full as October and Down Syndrome Awareness have come to a close. October was amazing! There is one word I am taking with me…..community. In 2011, holding my newborn, I felt so alone. In 2023, I no longer feel alone! My community is strong….OUR community is connected. Community is a big word…
Read MoreCrafting Inclusion: Scott’s Woodwork Empowers Jenalyn at GiGi’s Playhouse
In a world where small acts of kindness can spark immense change, Scott, a talented woodworker, has illuminated the lives of GiGi’s Playhouse participants in a truly remarkable way. Through his dedication and craftsmanship, he has extended a helping hand to Jenalyn, a cherished member of our GiGi’s family, making an indelible impact on her…
Read MoreMotherhood
“I have learned that love doesn’t have to be perfect or conventional to be real, and my child has taught me to embrace the imperfections that make life beautiful.”
Read MoreEmployment and why it matters
Meaningful employment is an essential aspect of a fulfilling life for all individuals, including those who experience Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Here are some reasons why meaningful employment is important to people who experience Down syndrome and other IDD: This is why we work so hard at GiGi’s! We see…
Read MoreMeet Rita & Abbey
Isn’t GiGi’s Playhouse just fabulous? It does say “playhouse” after all. When we lived in Wisconsin, I had heard of GiGi’s but never took advantage of any of the programs. I didn’t think they applied to my daughter who was well past being a baby! But when we moved to NC a year ago, I…
Read MoreFreely changing lives by giving their time!
The definition of a volunteer is “a person who freely offers to take part in an enterprise or undertake a task.” Yes, you read that right; FREELY offers to take part in a task. A volunteer gives up their time, energy, and so many other priceless parts of themselves to help a cause. GiGi’s is a 99% Volunteer run organization which means that there are 1,000’s…
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