3 Questions with Volunteer Barb Luby
1) How are you connected to GiGi’s Playhouse? In September 2012, I was contemplating retirement (in June 2013) from a long career teaching Special Education students. I wasn’t sure what activities would fill my new found free time. As fate would have it, I met Diane Husar at the first...
What Will YOU Move For?
We MOVE because we believe that Keith’s future is bright and full of potential. We know that with the support of family, friends and GiGi’s Playhouse, Keith will have a happy, meaningful and productive life. We are grateful to GiGi’s Playhouse and all of the amazing volunteers that provide meaningful...
Are You Ready to MOVE???
We started going to GiGi's when our baby was a year old. For the whole year prior our nurse kept reminding us that GiGi's was there and that we should go and that they were a resource for us. If we knew then what we know now, we would have...
It’s THAT Time of Year Again…5K Time!!!
Calling all team captains!!! Are you ready to create your team? Today is the day!!! All you need to do is register yourself and create a team. If you were a team captain in years past, your team name will already be there for you. Again, the registration site is...
3 Questions with Volunteer Anna Sullivan
1) How are you connected to GiGi’s Playhouse Tinley Park? I first got involved in GiGi’s over three years ago, when a participant’s mom gave a speech at the high school I attended my sophomore year. I signed up to volunteer the very next day! 2) What free programs do...
3 Questions with Volunteer Abbey MacLeod
1) How are you connected to GiGi's Playhouse Tinley Park? I’m a volunteer for programs. I kept on Googling best volunteer opportunities involving children and GiGi’s was always at the top of the search. I read the reviews from the parents and then all the programs you have. I thought...
Yoga Fun with Donna
I have been a Yoga instructor since 2000. I enjoy helping people with Yoga and came to GiGi's to work with children who have Down syndrome. I love the connection I have made with all of the participants...they are dedicated, eager to learn and have the best attitudes! Volunteering with them is a highlight...
The Gift of Speech Support
Nonverbal. The transmission of messages or signals through a nonverbal platform such as eye contact, facial expressions, gestures, posture..... I had heard many people say this before about their child with Down syndrome and I wasn’t sure if Christian would be Nonverbal. BUT...Christian has turned seven now and he...
The Value of GiGi’s for a New Mom
After receiving my son’s diagnosis at birth, I really didn’t feel like I had a good support system and access to resources. GiGi’s Playhouse invited me and my son into their family when I was ready, and I’m truly blessed to have their support. The staff absolutely adore my son....
Meet Teen Tastic Leader Bianca
My name is Bianca. I am a leader of the Teen Tastic program at GiGi's Playhouse Tinley Park, and PASSION is what brought me here. I have always had a passion for helping others, especially those with disabilities. But for me, it's more about seeing the ABILITIES, rather than the...
October: Down Syndrome Awareness & Acceptance Month
October is Down Syndrome Awareness & Acceptance Month! We are celebrating our friends who are extra awesome! Thank you Diane, our location's Founder, for your message: “Today begins Down Syndrome Awareness & Acceptance Month. I'd like to send a message to all those petrified Mamas out there...those who just received...
Virtual Step To Accept 5K Event (Annual Fundraiser)
This year’s fundraising 5K event looked differently due to the Covid-19 pandemic. GiGi's Playhouses’ 60+ locations across the U.S. and 1 location in Mexico hosted our first ever Virtual Step To Accept 5K Event. Our Playhouse hosts two big fundraisers a year to cover the cost of our program materials...