Challenging Expectations
Receiving a diagnosis of Down syndrome is something most parents never expect, and unexpected news can feel overwhelming. It's natural for parents to have a flood of questions. "What does this mean?" "How will this impact our family?" "What kind of support will my child need?" "What will my child's...
Parking Lot Party
Our annual Parking Lot Party was this past weekend, and what an incredible turnout! The weather was beautiful, the smiles were endless, and our Playhouse parking lot was filled with laughter, friendship, and fun from start to finish. Families and participants enjoyed an evening packed with delicious food, exciting games,...
Change
Change comes in many forms, and it means different things to different people. But one thing that most people can agree upon is that “change” is frequently difficult. We have all been influenced and molded by various experiences we have had in our lives, and those thoughts and patterns of...
Parents’ Choices
A family recently told us that as they considered the idea of a potential relocation (moving south), there were a few key factors that kept them in the Rockford area - and we were one of them. When Rogelio was transitioning out of the public school system, his family discovered...
OUR VOLUNTEERS ROCK!
Volunteer Appreciation Month may be coming to a close, but the impact of our volunteers is something we celebrate all year long. At GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford, our volunteers are truly the heart and soul of everything we do. Throughout the month, we’ve had the opportunity to highlight just a few...
Perks Equine Partnership
We are so grateful to Perks Family Equine Center at Lockwood Park for welcoming our participants back for another incredible equine therapy experience! This program has proven to be such a meaningful opportunity for our GiGi U participants to grow, connect, and learn in a unique and supportive environment. Hanging...
Just $21 a Month
When a lot of people do a little bit, it makes a big difference. Just a little something extra each month can make a huge impact in our funding at GiGi's Playhouse Rockford. A weekly coffee, a takeout meal, an item from your Amazon cart...things we purchase constantly without even...
Participant Best of All: A Returning Family
The Amina Grace Speech and Language Program welcomed the Ralston family back to GiGi's Playhouse Rockford last summer! Lennon’s mom, Shawn, shared:“While COVID set us back from getting to the Playhouse until Lennon was 6, we eventually started the speech program. Walking in, everyone is so welcoming—even the older participants....
Welcome to Holland
March means different things to different people. Some look forward to St. Patrick’s Day and all things Irish. For others, they are getting revved up for three weeks of basketball craziness with March Madness. For many, just knowing that the promise of spring is on the way makes this month...
Lasting Impact
Ann, from Rock Valley Credit Union, recently reached out to ask if their organization could host an event for GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford. After some great conversation and shared excitement, we decided that Rock Valley Credit Union would host our February Friday Friends get-together—complete with a dance party! 💃🕺 As we...
Reflections
15 years of... Growing programs Continual volunteer dedication Endless community support Family connection Empowering individuals with Down syndrome to reach their 'best of all' Life-changing opportunities Learning and education New partnerships Building friendships Advocating fiercely Loving unconditionally Smiling ear-to-ear Making memories Breaking barriers Joy. This list does not come close...
