Built to Move: How Fitness Helps Individuals with Down Syndrome Shine
Movement is more than exercise—it's confidence, independence, and joy in action. For individuals with Down syndrome, fitness plays a powerful role in supporting overall health, building lifelong skills, and creating opportunities to thrive. At GiGi's Playhouse, we see every day how purposeful movement helps individuals grow stronger—physically, socially, and emotionally....
What is Down Syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs when a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. This extra chromosome influences learning and development—but it also brings unique strengths, perspectives, and endless potential. At GiGi's Playhouse, we celebrate individuals with Down syndrome for who they are: capable,...
July Volunteer Spotlight
🎶 LMNOP Volunteer Spotlight: Celebrating Theresa and Pam! 🎶Every Thursday morning at GiGi’s Playhouse Simi Valley, our LMNOP program is filled with music, movement, and meaningful connections—thanks to the incredible dedication of Theresa and Pam! 💛These two amazing sisters lead with so much heart and positivity, creating a welcoming space...
🌟 Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Rose! 🌟
We’re so lucky to have Rose as part of our GiGi’s Playhouse family! With nearly two decades of experience as a child development specialist, Rose has dedicated her career to helping children and families thrive. She currently works with two regional center programs, focusing on early intervention for little ones...
Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Tomaso: A Big Brother, A Volunteer, and a Lifelong Advocate
From New Orleans to Simi Valley, Tomaso’s Journey with GiGi’s Playhouse Comes Full Circle Tomaso Dire is no stranger to the magic of GiGi’s Playhouse. As the older brother of a young woman with Down syndrome, Tomaso grew up immersed in the supportive and joyful community of the New Orleans...
Meet Kasey: A Dedicated GiGi’s Playhouse Star!
Kasey Stoutland is a participant in our GiGiFIT Adult class. She attends the classes consistently and loves her group exercise program! She loves it so much that she will begin preparing a day in advance of the class by making sure her clothes and shoes are ready to go. This...
🌟 Volunteer Spotlight: Laura Abbot 🌟
At GiGi’s Playhouse, we are incredibly fortunate to have volunteers who go above and beyond—and Laura is a shining example of that dedication. Laura first joined us as a greeter for GiGiFIT on Tuesday nights. She was so committed that she came a week early for training. On her very...
GiGi’s Playhouse Simi Valley Dash For Down syndrome event success!
Smiles, smiles, and more SMILES! That is what the third annual Dash for Down syndrome a GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge brought to our community on June 1st. GiGi's Playhouse Simi Valley supporters descended on Rancho Santa Susana Park in Simi Valley for a day filled with activities, fun, and acceptance. From...
GiGi’s Playhouse Simi Valley & Dignitiy Northridge Medical Center – supporting each other to make a difference.
GiGi’s Playhouse Simi Valley was recently invited to participate in Diversity Week at Dignity Northridge Medical Center. This came about following an introductory Zoom meeting with members of the Northridge Hospital Diversity Committee, where Laurie Samaan and Ashley Duran of GiGi’s Community Outreach Team shared detailed information about our new...
Why GiGi’s: Kirsten & Ellie
My name is Kirsten Riddick. I am a mother of three beautiful children, wife to a man named David who is a superintendent, and I am an elementary school teacher. My journey of becoming Ellie’s mom is one that has led me to a place where I am able to...
Why GiGi’s-Startup Team Member, Rhoda E.
Rhoda longs for a place where her son, Liam, is fully accepted and included, and for others to know him and understand Down syndrome. She desires for people to see Liam’s strengths and assets as opposed to his deficits. This is her “why” in joining the GiGi’s Playhouse Simi Valley Start-Up...
Why I Am Walking: Board Member, Laurie explains Why GiGiFIT 5K Run for 21 is so impactful
When my daughter, Sophie, was born with Down syndrome, I knew I was going to need the support of a tribe who was walking in my same shoes. GiGi's Playhouse has given our whole family a place to belong... all the time... a place where Sophie can develop meaningful relationships...