Gigi’s Playhouse-Syracuse received a $10,000 Grant from the Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation, Inc.

The Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation recently awarded GiGi’s Playhouse-Syracuse a $10,000 grant for use in developing the center’s physical activity programming. The money received will be used to purchase specifically selected start-up equipment to meet the varying development needs and ages of all those that will be utilizing the GiGi’s facility.

At GiGi’s, gross motor programming will focus on the benefits gained from being active, as well as learning the skills and knowledge necessary to incorporate safe, satisfying physical activity in to their lives. Thanks to this grant, accessibility to proper equipment that will meet the unique and varying needs of an individual with Down syndrome, will transform in to the ability to successfully participate in physical activities that have community and recreational relevance.

With this funding, fitness equipment such as a treadmill, elliptical and a stationary bike will be purchased offering the opportunity to exercise regularly in a safe and comfortable environment. Leisure time and sport related experiences, will enhance the exposure to movement technology available to our 21^st century learners as the ability to purchase an Xbox Kinect, which offers easy hands free virtual capability, and Nintendo Wii, which will facilitate the development of both competence and confidence in performing motor movements that are developmentally appropriate for each individual.

Programming in the areas of acceptance, social skill development, literacy, math and the opportunity to work on speech and language will occur naturally, purposefully and joyfully while students are physically active with friends and families.  A variety of equipment with visual, auditory, manipulative and tactile relevance, including a ball pit, climbing wall, balance apparatus and materials that promote throwing, catching and kicking, will all enhance the learning environment as physical activity stimulates the brain.

At Gigi’s our goal is to offer gross motor, health and fitness programming that can educate and inspire all members of the Gigi’s community to achieve optimal success. Thanks to The Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation our dream is becoming a reality.