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!
Community & Friendship
During Covid when we first launched Virtual programming, we never realized how many new families we would begin to reach! Many families do not live close to a brick and mortar playhouse and because of this they were unable to take advantage of GiGi’s free purposeful programming and meet other families like theirs. But now…
A Note of Gratitude: Galen’s Growth and Milestones with GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse
“Dear GiGi’s Virtual Team, We want you to know how much we love your programs and teachers. You have made a profound difference in our lives, and it’s hard to believe how much growth has happened for Galen since he started attending programs in September!” New Signs of Communication: The Impact of LMNOP “Galen signed…
Forming friendships through volunteering
“Every program I go to makes me smile. After a few weeks, the regular attendees knew me, and I know them, so it feels like we are forming meaningful friendships through the programs.” Annika got involved in GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse programs, as well as physical programs at the San Diego playhouse, in hopes to gain…