GiGi’s Tinley Progressing Towards GiGi U

This summer, GiGi’s Tinley is really beginning to promote programs to begin the transition towards GiGi U. GiGi U is a comprehensive series of programs that focuses on the development of confidence, health and wellness, as well as career interests and skills for adults with Down syndrome. One program that falls under the umbrella of the GiGi U progression at Tinley is Playhouse Partners. Four teens and adults attend this program on alternating weeks and work one on one with a volunteer mentor on tasks around the Playhouse. Tasks that the individuals and their volunteer mentor partake in include cleaning and sanitizing different rooms, filing of sign in sheets, various program preparations, and organization of our largely donated book library. This program focuses on the development of peer relationships as well as job skills for the workplace. Volunteers assist their peer on proper behaviors and proper demeanor in the workplace. Tinley Park hopes to begin moving the teen and adult programs into a structure that reflects more GiGi U style of healthy u, whole u and confident u.