Finding Joy in the Virtual Playhouse: David’s Inspiring Journey with GiGi’s
When Joyce and her son David moved from sunny Fort Myers, Florida, to the scenic mountains of Western North Carolina, one of their biggest concerns was how to stay connected with the vibrant community they had grown to love at GiGi’s Playhouse. Back in Florida, they were regulars—Joyce even volunteered as a co-coach for the GiGiFIT Adult program, and David thrived on the in-person interactions. But in their new hometown, there wasn’t a GiGi’s nearby.
Thankfully, the Virtual Playhouse was ready to welcome them with open arms.
David, a young adult with Down syndrome, has made a seamless transition from in-person to virtual programs—and according to his mom, he didn’t miss a beat. Thanks to GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse, David continues to engage with his peers, make new friends, and participate in programs that spark joy and build confidence.
Each week, David looks forward to logging in for GiGiFIT Adult and Fantastic Friends—two programs that have quickly become staples in his routine. Of the two, GiGiFIT Adult has emerged as his favorite. It’s more than just exercise—it’s a community of friends who cheer each other on, celebrate small wins, and keep each other motivated.
Joyce beams with pride when she talks about David’s Best of All moments. Whether it’s mastering a new move during a fitness session or connecting with someone new across the country, every small victory is celebrated. It’s that consistent, measurable growth—one more word, one more step, one more smile—that defines what “Best of All” really means at GiGi’s.
But the magic doesn’t stop with David. Joyce has also continued her volunteer journey, now serving as an assistant coach in the Virtual GiGiFIT Adult program. For this mother-son duo, GiGi’s Playhouse has become more than a community—it’s a lifeline of support, encouragement, and connection.
“If you can’t tell, our family LOVES GiGi’s Playhouse,” Joyce shares. And it’s clear they do—from the screen to the heart, their GiGi’s story continues to grow.
Are you interested in helping make a further impact? Sign up for one of our programs or volunteer with us today!
More than words: Joe Pawsey’s success transcends reading
With the help of GiGi’s Virtual Playhouse team, Joe Pawsey was able to regain his confidence and accomplish his dreams! At GiGi’s Playhouse, we strongly believe that education opens doors. Whether it’s at school, the workplace, or the community at large, literacy leads to inclusion. There’s no better illustration of this than a recent success…
Stirring Up Joy: Julie’s Journey with GiGi’s Kitchen Adult
In the midst of the pandemic, when social distancing became the norm and staying at home became a way of life, many of us found ourselves seeking new ways to stay connected and engaged. For Julie, discovering Virtual GiGi’s Kitchen Adult was a silver lining in an otherwise challenging time. Amidst the pandemic, Julie stumbled…
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…