GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau Awarded $25,000 Grant from Elizabeth S. & Henry Peters Fund

We are thrilled to announce that GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau has been awarded a generous $25,000 grant from the Elizabeth S. and Henry Peters Fund, a donor-advised fund through the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin. This incredible support will significantly enhance our mission to provide transformative educational and therapeutic programs for individuals with Down syndrome.

Empowering Through Education: 1:1 Math Programming

A portion of this grant will be dedicated to launching our new 1:1 Math Programming. This initiative is designed to offer personalized math instruction tailored to the unique learning needs of each participant. By focusing on individual strengths and challenges, we aim to build confidence, improve academic skills, and foster a love for learning in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Enhancing Our Outdoor Space: Seed to Sale Sensory Garden

The remaining funds will be used to complete our backyard sensory space, part of the Seed to Sale program. This sensory garden will provide a hands-on, interactive environment where participants can engage with nature, develop fine and gross motor skills, and enjoy therapeutic activities. The garden will feature a variety of sensory experiences, including tactile pathways, aromatic plants, and visually stimulating elements, all designed to promote sensory integration and well-being.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Elizabeth S. and Henry Peters Fund and the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin for their unwavering support. In a heartwarming twist, Playhouse staff, Erica, was asked to present, not knowing that the Elizabeth S. & Henry Peters Fund was actually her family! This grant will not only help us expand our educational offerings but also create a nurturing and inclusive space where our participants can thrive.

Stay tuned for updates on the progress of these exciting projects. Together, we are making a difference, one step at a time.

Thank you for being part of our journey!

Continue reading for more information on who Elizabeth S. Peters was and the impact she made.

Elizabeth was born and raised in Wausau. She attended Wausau High School and graduated in 1945 as the valedictorian of her class. After high school, she attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She graduated in 1949 with honors and an accounting degree. After graduation, she returned to Wausau to begin her career and later start a family. She married her husband of 35 years, Henry M. Peters, Jr., on November 4, 1961. They were blessed in 1967 with a daughter, Mollie.

Elizabeth was a local trailblazer for women in the accounting field. After graduating from college, she accepted a position with Wipfli Ullrich accounting firm, where she worked for over 40 years. She became a partner in 1962, being the first woman in the state of Wisconsin to become a partner in a CPA firm. Elizabeth was the first woman appointed to the Accounting Examining Board by Governor Patrick Lucey, which she served on for eight years. Prior to retirement, she was invited to join the UW Business Alumni Board. Elizabeth believed in giving back to her community, serving on many committees and boards. In 1987, she was recognized for her community service and leadership by being presented the prestigious Athena award in Wausau.

In her free time, Elizabeth enjoyed golfing and curling. In addition to her accomplishments, she enjoyed traveling throughout Europe and spending quiet weekends at the lake.