Celebrating Team Jade: Leading the Charge for Acceptance in the Virtual GiGiFIT Challenge

We are so thrilled to highlight our first team to reach $1,000 in our GiGiFIT Acceptance Virtual Movement Challenge this year! This incredible team is using our peer-to-peer fundraising event to raise funds to support the virtual free programming offered to families worldwide. They believe in acceptance for ALL and are changing the way the world views Down syndrome through participating in this event.  

“Team Jade joined the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge because we are so incredibly grateful for the GiGi’s programs available through GiGi’s Playhouse !  In the past year, Jade has participated in Teen Tastic, GiGi’s Kitchen, GiGiFIT Teen, and Math Tutoring – all virtually.  

We live in a very small rural town, with very little support for people with special needs, let alone specific to Down syndrome.  The ability to benefit from GiGi’s programs virtually is a literal Godsend!  In just one example, Jade’s math tutor has helped to completely alter the perceptions of Jade’s abilities to her school.  Jade is the only student with Down syndrome in her high school, so the tutor has even connected with her teacher to show her what she is truly capable of achieving.” 

“Regarding acceptance, roughly 20% of the US population lives in rural environments, and many more live in deep urban areas that are drastically under-served.  These communities subsequently suffer from lack of acceptance and understanding.  We view the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge as a way to showcase the possibilities of individuals with Down syndrome so that the world can start accepting them as welcome members of all communities – schools, towns, companies, and neighborhoods.  The work GiGi’s Playhouse is doing is incredibly essential to help build a bridge for all individuals with Down syndrome to thrive in our society.  Thank you GiGi’s Playhouse!” 

We thank Team Jade for their commitment and inspiring efforts. Your participation in the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge and dedication to promoting acceptance are truly admirable. Your efforts are making a significant impact in creating a more inclusive world. Thank you Team Jade! Click here to donate to another team or register another team member! For other details about the GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge Virtual Movement, click here. Know someone who wants to sponsor, it’s not too late

Hazel Spotlight

Finding Joy in Every Sign: Hazel’s Journey with LMNOP at GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse 

For many families, connection is built in the quiet, everyday moments—the ones that might seem small from the outside but carry so much meaning at home. For Hazel Holt and her family, those moments are happening each week through GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse LMNOP program, where music, movement, and early communication come together in a way…

VPH Sarah Volunteer Spotlight MC

Kicks, Confidence, and Community: Sarah’s GiGi’s Journey 

Sarah’s journey as a volunteer is rooted in something deeply personal: a lifelong passion for supporting people with special needs and creating spaces where everyone feels included. From her early experiences in special education classes as a child to becoming a leader and advocate in her community today, Sarah’s story is one of compassion, leadership,…

VPH Family Spotlight- Maggie MC (1)

Turning Math Upside-Down (Literally!): Maggie’s Lightbulb Moment 

How a vertical number line helped one student unlock confidence and accuracy  By Katie Buss, BSW Intern, Aurora University & GiGi’s Playhouse Virtual Playhouse Tutor (Fall 2025 – Spring 2026)  When you meet 12-year-old Maggie, you immediately notice her spark. This fifth-grader from Massachusetts brings enthusiasm, humor, and heart to every tutoring session. Whether she’s talking about cheerleading (“GO EAGLES!”), gymnastics,…

Leave a Comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.