A Growing Partnership Rooted in Support

At GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land, true inclusion happens when communities come together to support, uplift, and empower individuals with Down syndrome. One company fully embracing this mission is OCuSOFT, a Rosenberg-based leader in eye and skin care products. In just a short time, their generosity and commitment to our participants have created meaningful opportunities, unforgettable experiences, and a strong bond between our organizations.

Our partnership with OCuSOFT is still new, but their impact has already been remarkable. They first welcomed us to their Charity Awareness Day in September, where we had the chance to share our mission and connect with their employees. In October, they brought spooky fun to our participants with a Haunted House and Halloween party. And as the holiday season rolled in, OCuSOFT made sure our participants felt the magic of Christmas by inviting us to their festive holiday celebration.

Each of these moments was filled with warmth, kindness, and inclusivity, showing just how deeply OCuSOFT values community engagement

From Awareness to Action: OCuSOFT’s Charity Day

In September, OCuSOFT opened its doors to us for their Charity Awareness Day, giving us a platform to connect with employees and share the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse. This event was a wonderful opportunity to introduce more people to our programs and build connections with individuals passionate about making a difference.

Throughout the event, OCuSOFT employees learned about the positive impact of GiGi’s Playhouse, and we were able to engage with individuals who are passionate about supporting our cause. It’s events like this that make our relationship with OCuSOFT so special, as they continue to find new and creative ways to raise awareness for our mission.

A Halloween to Remember: Spooky Fun at OCuSOFT

Last October, OCuSOFT fully embraced the Halloween spirit by hosting a Haunted House and party for our participants. The event was filled with laughter, excitement, and plenty of spooky fun. From the thrilling haunted house tour to the creative costumes worn by OCuSOFT employees, the event created lasting memories.

Our participants loved engaging with the OCuSOFT team—showing off their costumes, enjoying delicious treats, and making unforgettable memories. This was a perfect example of how OCuSOFT goes above and beyond to foster inclusion.

Spreading Holiday Cheer: A Magical Christmas Celebration

OCuSOFT’s Christmas Party was another example of their dedication to creating joyful experiences for our participants. The festive celebration brought our community together for a heartwarming tour of their beautifully decorated space, fun crafts, and a visit with Santa.

Our participants enjoyed the chance to bond with OCuSOFT employees, admire the holiday decorations, and engage in creative activities. The kindness and generosity of OCuSOFT’s team made the holiday season even more special for everyone involved.

Beyond Events: Opening Doors for Employment Training

Beyond hosting memorable events, OCuSOFT has taken their support a step further by providing job training opportunities for two of our participants in their warehouse. This program, which began in February, offers valuable hands-on experience in a structured work environment.

Key Responsibilities for Participants:

✔️ Assembling sample eye drop boxes
✔️ Carefully inserting sample vials
✔️ Sealing and organizing boxes into pallets
✔️ Following hygiene and quality control guidelines

In just a two-hour window, our participants have packaged an impressive four pallets—totaling 800 sample boxes! This structured, supportive environment helps develop essential workplace skills, including attention to detail, organization, and efficiency.

Gratitude for OCuSOFT’s Team

A program like this wouldn’t be possible without compassionate and dedicated employees guiding the way. We are especially grateful for Eunice Pensado and Edgar Jaimes, who oversee the training program with patience, encouragement, and a genuine belief in our participants’ abilities.

This partnership also wouldn’t exist without the leadership of George Haines, OCuSOFT’s Executive Vice President, who helped design this incredible job training program. And from the very beginning, Cynthia Barratt, OCuSOFT’s President and CEO, has been a champion of inclusion. Her generosity and commitment to the community have made a lasting impact, and we are so grateful for her leadership.

A Recognized Leader in Workplace Excellence

OCuSOFT’s commitment to a positive work environment isn’t just something we’ve witnessed firsthand—it’s been recognized on a larger scale. The company has been honored as one of Houston’s Best & Brightest Companies to Work For and received the Houston Chronicle’s Top Workplaces Award for 2024.

These accolades come as no surprise. Every interaction with OCuSOFT has been met with kindness, respect, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Their team has made us feel truly welcome, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the impact they’ve had on our GiGi’s Playhouse family.

Looking Ahead

As our partnership with OCuSOFT continues to grow, we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Whether through future events, job training, or new initiatives, one thing is certain—this is a partnership built on shared values, inclusivity, and a dedication to making a difference.

To OCuSOFT: Thank you for believing in our participants, for opening doors to new possibilities, and for being a shining example of what true community support looks like. We are so grateful for your continued partnership and can’t wait to see what the future holds! To learn more about OCuSOFT visit their website

Inspired by OCuSOFT’s generosity? Join us in making a difference! Learn how your company can partner with GiGi’s Playhouse Sugar Land by reaching out to us at sugarland@gigisplayhouse.org