Self-Advocate Story Serves as Motivation for Upcoming Golf Outing

As we prepare for the upcoming National Achievement Center Golf Outing (August 13th), we are inspired by the story of Eugene, a self-advocate and avid golfer from Rockford, IL:

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Eugene Mund Playing Golf

“Eugene has been a participant of GiGi’s Playhouse since the beginning. He and his family have benefited greatly from the programs that GiGi’s has to offer. Eugene expressed that there are a lot of programs for the younger community but GiGi’s not only offers programs for the young but for adults too. Eugene said, “[GiGi’s] is needed in Rockford, it is my second home. I see some old friends and I meet new friends.” He expressed how he loves coming to the monthly program called Friday Friends, a night when adults come for a time of friendships and fun. Eugene never misses a Friday Friends event. Eugene not only attends programs at GiGi’s but he volunteers his time by having a Lemonade Stand to raise funds for GiGi’s. He raised $400.00! Eugene is excited to be heading down state for the Special Olympics State Golf Tournament on Sept. 14th in Decatur, IL. This is Eugene’s second year as a Gold Medalist for golfing. What an accomplishment for him! Tonya, Eugene’s sister, said that when Eugene attends GiGi’s programs he becomes his “own person”. Eugene doesn’t have to worry about anything but being himself at GiGi’s. We thank Eugene and his family for their love & support to GiGi’s Playhouse Rockford!” We believe in Eugene! Come show your support for all of our amazing individuals with Down syndrome on August 13th at the Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club in Hoffman Estates, IL. See you there! https://gigisplayhouse.org/golf-event-inc 

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1 Comment

  1. Monika on December 26, 2015 at 8:34 am

    Hi Kat,I am an undergraduate seoinr here at the UO about to graduate from the PPPM department and thinking about moving to the Bay area after school. I was hoping you could help me get in contact with some UO alumni down there for career advice/information, life in the Bay area, etc. I am not from that area so any advice would be great! Thanks!Mary Heberling

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