Meet Leah! Intern from SU
My name is Leah Futey, I am a student-athlete at Syracuse University studying health and exercise science. This semester, I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer at Gigi’s Playhouse with kids aged 8 through 14 in an exercise class focused on track, bowling, and basketball, titled “Little Sports”. I have been...
Meet your LMNOP leads!
Ashley and Dana were instrumental is starting LMNOP Back up again. Their enthusiasm, experience and desire to see people succeed are what makes them so special. Read a little bit about both of them below! A huge thank-you to these wonderful ladies for everything you do. Our programming wouldn’t be...
Amy’s Journey with GiGi’s Playhouse
Amy has been part of GiGi’s Playhouse since the very beginning. When the doors first opened, her mom found the Playhouse, and it quickly became a second home for Amy—a place full of friendship, growth, and opportunity. Over the years, Amy has participated in many programs, including GiGiFIT, GiGi Kitchen,...
Mary Jo’s Story
When GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse first opened its doors, Mary Jo read about it in the news and immediately thought of her son and his friend David, who had Down Syndrome. She knew it would be a place filled with acceptance, community, and opportunity. Her first visit to the Playhouse was...
How Volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse Changed My Life
(Testimony 2) From the perspective of Lexi Appleby It all started with a conversation.While working in my classroom, my colleague, Mary Jo Klein, began telling me about GiGi’s Playhouse and all the fun events happening there. Her excitement was contagious, and before long, I knew I had to be a...
A Warm Welcome to a New Chapter- Testimony 1
Stepping into the role of Executive Director at GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse has been nothing short of amazing. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was met with kindness, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of purpose. It quickly became clear that this Playhouse is more than just a center...
Summer Fun, New Faces & Community Connections at GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse!
Summer is here and school may be out, but GiGi’s Playhouse is still the place to be! From exciting leadership news to family-friendly outings and big events on the horizon, there’s no better time to stay connected with our amazing community. Our next event is 8/29/2025 for GiGi's day at the...
Love, always.
We are excited to welcome Beth back to the Blog! Each month in 2023, we will focus on a theme, and as I am sure you can imagine, February is Love! If love is patient and it is kind, then it must also be it’s opposite. We are the sum...
Gratitude, in the Hard
Welcome back to the GiGi's Blog, Beth Craver! We are so thankful for her story telling talents and how she always brings a great insight. This month she is sharing about gratitude. In the world of special needs, it is easy to get bogged down by woes and worries. It...
More than just a 5k – Acceptance Challenge 2022
Guest Post: Heather Mulye, Ellies & Finnagians mom, GiGiFIT Kids Leader, and Board Member I’ve been blessed with leading GiGiFIT kids for the past year. If you know me, you know the second thing I love most in this world after Ellie, and Finnegan is running and fitness. Being able...
Acceptance, the real Meaning.
Guest Post: Beth Craver Six years ago I was a Down syndrome rookie. I was learning the ropes from people I met through social media and my new BFFs over at GiGi’s Playhouse. Their mission screamed acceptance and I was completely on board. My bags were packed and ready for...
Honoring Justina at the Run Walk & Dash!
GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge Team Spotlight: Team Justina 👉🏼 See Team Page Here If you currently attend GiGi's free programing you know our incredible program coordinator, Kara. Kara is mother to 8, her youngest Justina was born with Down syndrome and her precious short life left an incredible impact on her...