When the Funding Tide Recedes: Why Community Support Matters More Than Ever

Every year, nonprofits across the country work tirelessly to bring essential programs and services to their communities. But 2025 has brought challenges unlike any we’ve seen before. With sweeping changes and cancellations to government funding, it resulted in increased competition for grants, and a shrinking pool of available resources, where organizations like GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego are feeling the strain more than ever. And yet, our mission has never been more critical.

Why Programs Like GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego Matter

Families of individuals with Down syndrome know firsthand that traditional education systems, even at their best, often leave important gaps unfilled. Schools may provide academic instruction, but they rarely have the resources, specialized training, or long-term support structures that individuals with Down syndrome need to thrive socially, academically, physically, and emotionally.

GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego exists to bridge that gap. Our free, research-backed programs:

• Strengthen literacy, speech, and math skills
• Build confidence and independence
• Develop motor skills and physical fitness
• Create social connection and community belonging
• Support families with education, empowerment, and resources

These are not extras, they are essentials. Families depend on these programs to give their loved ones the opportunities and tools they need to reach their fullest potential. And because we never charge for our services, funding is what keeps the doors open and the programs running.

The Funding Landscape Has Changed & It Affects Everyone

This year, federal and state restructuring of nonprofit grants has made the competition for funding more intense than ever. Many longstanding grant programs have been reduced, paused, or redirected, leaving nonprofits across the country scrambling for fewer dollars.

At the same time:

• More organizations are applying for the same grants
• Application processes have become more complex
• Funding cycles have lengthened, delaying critical support

In short, the tide has receded—and when that happens, we see who is left standing. Nonprofits like GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego cannot rely on government support alone. The sustainability of our programs comes down to community members who believe in our mission and invest in it.

Why Your Support Matters Right Now

Despite the challenges, there is incredible hope and it starts with you.

This year, we are fortunate to have a $5,000 matching gift that will double the impact of every dollar donated up to that amount through December 31st, 2025. When you give $50, it becomes $100. When you give $250, it becomes $500. And together, we move twice as fast toward keeping our programs strong, consistent, and accessible to everyone who needs them.

Your generosity ensures that individuals with Down syndrome and their families can continue receiving the support they need right here in San Diego.

In a year when funding is harder to secure than ever, community support isn’t just important, it is the lifeline that allows us to continue serving.

What Upcoming 2026 Tax Changes Mean for Your Giving

Major federal tax changes arriving in 2026 will shift how charitable donations are treated and for many donors, these adjustments could reduce the tax benefits they’ve relied on for years. Understanding what’s coming can help you make the most of your gifts before the rules change.

Key tax changes starting in 2026

• Standard-deduction filers: You’ll be able to deduct up to $1,000 (individual) or $2,000 (joint) in monetary donations, even if you don’t itemize.
• Itemized deductions: Only donations that exceed 0.5% of your income will be deductible.
  • Example: If your income is $200,000, only the portion of your gift above $1,000 is deductible.
• Top tax bracket: The charitable-deduction rate drops from 37% to 35%, slightly reducing the tax savings on large gifts.
• Donations to public charities: You can still deduct up to 60% of your income in monetary gifts, this rule isn’t changing.

Why timing matters for 2025 giving

Making your gift in 2025 allows you to:

• Capture today’s more favorable deduction rules
• Avoid the upcoming 0.5% income threshold for itemization
• Take advantage of the higher deduction rate if you’re in the top tax bracket

For many donors, 2025 may be the last chance to maximize the financial benefits of giving before the new limitations arrive. We recommend checking with your tax professional to see how these changes may impact you.

The Power of Community in Times of Uncertainty

While government funding can fluctuate with every election cycle or policy shift, community support remains steady, personal, and powerful. It comes from people who understand the value of inclusion, who believe in the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, and who want San Diego to be a place where everyone has access to the resources they deserve.

Learn More About The GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego Mission Here

At GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego, we’ve always said, “Stronger together.” In moments like this, that truth becomes even more evident.

Join Us Today, Your Gift Makes All the Difference

As the year draws to a close, we invite you to stand with us. Support the families who rely on our programs. Support the individuals working toward their goals. Support a future where every person with Down syndrome knows they are capable, valued, and powerful.

Now is the moment.
Your gift, matched dollar for dollar, makes twice the impact.
Your support keeps our community strong.

Donate Today To GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego

Thank you for believing in our mission and for helping us continue to change lives every day!