Dancing Toward Inclusion: My Journey with GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh 

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 memories of us baking chocolate chip cookies together, our aprons (and the kitchen) dusted with flour and laughter. She’d pull out her old VHS tapes of ballets—Giselle was our favorite—and we’d dress up and reenact scenes in her living room, carefully balancing fruit baskets on our heads as if we were on stage. And just like me now, she had a hummingbird feeder on her porch. We’d sit and watch them for hours. She always found joy in the smallest things and taught me to do the same. 

My Memom was the mother of eight children, which already deserves a medal, but she also carried her love for people into her work as a teacher for a special-needs class. Her heart for that community shaped me in ways I’m still discovering. Her classroom wasn’t just a place for learning—it was a place where every child was seen, celebrated, and embraced exactly as they were. When I visited, I often met her students, two of whom—Jennifer and Julia—became my childhood playmates. We played, laughed, and danced together, and I never saw differences, only joy. Looking back, those moments planted the seeds of inclusion in me long before I had the words for it. 

Today, I get to carry her legacy forward by teaching ballet at GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh. Once a month, I step into a room full of bright smiles, eager energy, and boundless joy. We dance, we laugh, and we celebrate movement together—not to perfect steps, but to experience freedom and fun. Those classes are a reminder that inclusion isn’t complicated; it’s about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and free to shine. 

The energy and enthusiasm in the room are always inspiring. Every dancer reminds me of the beauty of inclusion and the power of dance to bring us together. I love my students so much—their determination, grace, and joy are a testament to what can be achieved when we support and uplift one another. 

Over time, I’ve had the privilege of watching incredible growth in my dancers. One participant in particular, Wesley, has been such a joy to have in class. Since joining ballet several months ago, he’s become a true leader—always arriving with a big smile and contagious energy that lifts everyone around him. He’s eager to demonstrate movements, answer questions about terminology, and encourage his peers. What stands out most is his focus and consistency. He remembers the choreography from week to week and continues to build on what he’s learned. Watching his confidence and technique grow has been such a gift. It’s a reflection of both his dedication and the supportive environment that GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh creates. 

My connection with GiGi’s goes beyond teaching. I’m honored to serve on the Board of Directors, helping expand GiGi’s reach and support its mission to empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families. It’s an organization that embodies everything my grandmother taught me—joy, resilience, and belonging. 

Every time I witness the magic of GiGi’s, I feel my Memom’s spirit alive in me. I’m reminded of her compassion, her ability to meet people where they are, and her unwavering belief in the value of every person. 

For me, every twirl, smile, and step taken in class is a tribute to her legacy—a reminder to find joy, give generously, and make space for everyone to belong. My journey with GiGi’s has been one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I’m so grateful to be part of a community that celebrates the beauty and strength in every individual. 

Written by Brooke Huckabee