A sister’s impact

Many of our volunteers come to us because their lives have been personally touched by knowing someone with Down syndrome. We have many volunteers who have a sibling with Down syndrome and choose to give back by volunteering through our virtual 1:1 tutoring program or virtual group programs.  Their passion for the Down syndrome community…

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The equation for success 

GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse has an incredible 1:1 math tutoring program where our math tutors are empowering their students by promoting a positive experience of learning mathematics with a sound foundation of basic number understanding. Our volunteers choose to become tutors for many reasons. One of our math tutors, Paul Guglielmo, told us “Volunteering was always important to…

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A note from Desiree & Brighton

“GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse gives our son, Brighton, the opportunity to learn alongside others like him, as we don’t have a GiGi’s playhouse where we live. It has helped our family learn what it’s like in his shoes and the programs expose him to sign language. We love learning new signs and showing them to him.…

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Kyrie’s love for GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse Programs

In the digital embrace of GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse (VPH), Kyrie’s story unfolds as a testament to the profound impact of connection and inclusivity. Since September 2023, Kyrie has become a dedicated participant in VPH programs, immersing herself multiple times a week for five enriching months.  Kyrie’s virtual journey is marked by joyful encounters – from…

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Making a difference through Music

Amidst the demands of her student and part-time work life, Fabiana sought a fulfilling yet flexible volunteering opportunity. Enter GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse, a community-driven initiative dedicated to changing the way the world views Down syndrome and sending a global message of acceptance for all. Little did Fabiana know, this discovery would lead to one of…

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You belong here!

Namrata is so happy that she has found her place in our Friday yoga class! Namrata truly shines in our programs and feels a sense of belonging there. She attends regularly, is quick to learn the poses, and excited to see our program leader Maggie and her virtual friends each week. Namrata’s sister told us,…

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Building character and belonging: Sean’s journey

Discovering a community where your family truly belongs is a rare and invaluable experience! GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse has become a cherished space for the Pak family, celebrating the uniqueness of every child, including their child Sean. Our online accessibility breaks down geographical barriers and creates an inclusive community for him to enjoy.  “GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse…

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A taste of the continents- Volunteer Spotlight

“Hello! My name is Glynis Moinet. I got involved with GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse because I think it’s an amazing opportunity to connect with people all over the country who don’t have GiGi’s playhouse where they live. I am the program leader for Virtual GiGi’s Kitchen Adult. This is a program where we most of all have…

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Let’s celebrate Marcus!

“I go to GiGi’s Kitchen Adult, Down to Dance, and Fantastic Friends. I love them all. I love to meet new friends.” Marcus says. Marcus is an adult participant who enjoys coming to programs at the Virtual Playhouse because there is not a local playhouse in his hometown. Since joining our virtual programs, he has…

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Our Down to Dance Leader; Mariyah

We are so grateful for our partnership with the University of Florida and their Down to Dance program! Our participants absolutely love this program and learn so much from the incredible leaders like Mariyah. Mariyah currently volunteers and serves as the President of Down to Dance, an organization at the University of Florida that has…

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