2026 Dash for Down Syndrome 5K
On May 17, 2026, more than 500 runners, walkers, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters gathered at Long Branch Park for our annual Dash for Down Syndrome 5K. The day was filled with energy, smiles, and a shared commitment to celebrating individuals with Down syndrome and supporting the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse...
Volunteer Spotlight: Jackie – Finding Purpose, Love, and Community at GiGi’s Playhouse
Screenshot Since November 2025, Jackie has been sharing her time and talents with GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse, volunteering with GiGiFIT for Adults and lending a helping hand with preparations for the upcoming Golf Tournament. What began as a desire to learn more about Down syndrome and support her niece, Izzy Charles,...
Volunteer of the month!
Meet Tessa Green! She was a volunteer here for the fall, winter and spring. She completed her Occupational Therapy Fieldwork hours here, leading GiGiFIT for Teens and the evening GiGiFIT Adult program. Since October 2025, volunteering at GiGi's Playhouse Syracuse has become such a meaningful experience. Volunteering primarily with GiGiFIT, while also helping with Achievers, TeenTastic, and special events like...
Meet Maria: A Heart for Inclusion and Impact
We’re so excited to introduce Maria, one of the incredible members of our Board at GiGi’s Playhouse! Maria joined the Board because she truly believes in the mission of GiGi’s. She has seen firsthand how GiGi’s is changing lives and feels deeply connected to the vision of a world where...
The Power of GiGi’s Playhouse: Jen and Izzy
Written by Jen Charles When I found out I was having a child with Down syndrome, I broke in ways I didn’t expect.Not because of her… but because of the fear.The questions no one can answer.The overwhelming feelings.I remember wondering if I was strong enough to be the mom she...
Literacy Changes Everything: How GiGi’s Playhouse Builds Lifelong Skills
On a regular day, seven-year-old Sebbie told his mom he would read a story to her. Surprised, Nykole, Sebbie’s mom, joyfully sat down and listened to her son read! Something he had never done before he attended 1:1 tutoring at GiGi’s Playhouse. When Nykole met Ann, Sebbie’s tutor, Nykole asked, Ann if she thought...
Strength in Every Moment: One Family’s Down Syndrome Story
By Megan Wicklund In 2021 our family was excited for our second child. Everything had gone smoothly with my first pregnancy and Isabella, who was 2 at the time, was a little spitfire full of energy that brought us so much joy. We were eager to give her a sibling...
Volunteer Spotlight: Theresa Szuba
Theresa Szuba is a devoted volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse whose impact can be felt throughout the organization. She has served as a Board member, led Kids Club, helped launch and lead GiGiFIT Teen, and has been a Teen Tastic leader for more than five years. Most recently, she joined the Family Engagement Committee. Theresa...
Volunteer Spotlight: Celebrating Community, Connection, and Kindness
Meet Meghan! At GiGi’s Playhouse Syracuse, our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. This month, we’re excited to highlight a dedicated, upbeat, and deeply valued member of our community whose kindness shines in every program he touches. Meet our Volunteer Spotlight: Meghan Family plays a huge role in her life. She...
Meet Stephanie!
Stephanie has been volunteering at GiGi's Playhouse since 2019! She is the proud mother of 5, has enjoyed her 8 grandchildren with her husband Gary and by the time you’re reading this, the first great grandbaby will probably be born! Outside of GiGi’s she likes to read, sew, and garden....
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...