Best of All Moments – GiGi’s is Gorgeous, Intelligent, Goofy, Independent, and Successful! Meet John

Have you ever met someone whose energy is simply contagious? The kind of person who walks into a room and instantly lifts everyone’s spirits with their warmth, enthusiasm, and kindness? Some people have a way of making the world bright just by being themselves!  

At GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego, we are lucky to have John as a part of our community. Whether it’s through a welcoming smile, encouraging word, or invitation to join the dance floor, John reminds us all of the power of kindness and inclusion! 

John found GiGi’s Playhouse through his friend and fellow participant Alicia, who he met through a community bike event. He and Alicia spend a lot of time together outside GiGi’s, and he is excited for the opportunity to build their friendship at the playhouse as well!  

When asked what he likes about GiGi’s, John noted that he “can be himself “and “appreciates the supportive environment,” which makes the playhouse “feel like a family.” For John, each letter in the GiGi’s name represents a different feeling he experiences at the playhouse, including “Gorgeous, Intelligent, Goofy, Independent, and Successful!” 

John has become a regular participant at Fantastic Friends, a fun and free gathering to facilitate social interactions between adults with Down syndrome, their peers, and the community. One thing John has learned from Fantastic Friends is how to “open up to a new group of people while trying new things.” John has especially enjoyed dancing and doing art projects during the program and suggests the playhouse “add an art class” where participants can “learn more about realistic watercolor and drawing.” 

Fantastic Friends lead Valerie describes his participation in the program, noting “John walks into the playhouse and lights up the room with his positive energy. He is so fun to be around and always has creative ideas to make our gatherings even better. We’re so happy he’s part of our community!” 

Outside of GiGi’s, John is an active member of his local community, having served as an assistant teacher, natural healer, and most recently, an adaptive Tai Chi instructor.  He is very passionate about his new martial arts role and hopes to “help his students learn to love themselves from the inside out.” Participant and friend Alicia is one of John’s many students who benefit from his martial arts instruction and words of encouragement!  

Certainly, John’s ability to lift others, spread joy, and create a welcoming space reminds us all of the power of kindness and connection. At GiGi’s Playhouse San Diego, we celebrate the incredible impact of participants like John, who show how one person’s light can inspire and brighten an entire community!