Posts by Erica Erdman
More Than Learning: The Power of Purposeful Programming at GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau
At GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau, we believe that learning is just the beginning. Our purposeful programming is designed not only to build skills but also to nurture something just as vital—relationships and social connection. For individuals with Down syndrome, opportunities to connect with peers in a meaningful, inclusive environment can be life-changing. That’s why every program…
Read MoreLet’s Meet Our New Intern…CHIP!
Hi! My name is Lizzie Wenzel, but you can call me CHIP! I’m a Pre-Medicine student at UW-La Crosse with dreams of becoming a doctor and giving back to our wonderful community. I’m incredibly honored to be starting an 8-week internship at GiGi’s Playhouse in Wausau, WI, where I’ll be working to help launch two…
Read MoreLet Your Uniqueness GLOW: Why GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau’s 5K GLOW Fun Run/Walk Matters
On June 14, 2025, the Wausau community will come alive with color, light, and purpose at the 5th Annual GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau 5K GLOW Fun Run/Walk. Held at the Aspirus YMCA in Weston, this vibrant event is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of acceptance, inclusion, and the incredible potential of individuals with Down syndrome.…
Read MoreTutoring at GiGi’s: More Than Teaching Our Participants
Volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse can be an incredibly fulfilling journey. As a volunteer literacy and math tutor, you can expect to share your knowledge, help students grow their skills, and maybe gain some teaching experience along the way. The bonus is how much you will learn—and how deeply you will be impacted by the incredible…
Read MoreCelebrating the Heart and Soul of GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau: Our Volunteers
When we step into GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau, we are greeted by more than just walls and programs. We are welcomed by a community, a family, powered by the unwavering dedication and passion of our volunteers. They are the heartbeat of our mission: to provide free, life-changing programming to individuals with Down syndrome and their families.…
Read MoreThe Benefits of Thrivent for Supporting Non-Profits Like GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau
Sue Kirby and her husband, Kevin, have long been aware of the benefits of being Thrivent members. However, it wasn’t until this past year that they truly tapped into these benefits by leading a Thrivent Action Team. This initiative allowed them to apply for a grant to support the incredible work being done at GiGi’s…
Read MoreGrowing Acceptance: Amanda’s Plant Sale at Weston YMCA Raises Funds and Awareness for GiGi’s Playhouse!
Volunteer Amanda, and YMCA Employee, recently hosted a successful plant sale for members and the community at the Weston YMCA. It brought in a significant monetary donation, AND helped spread GiGi’s message of ACCEPTANCE just in time for World Down Syndrome Day! Tell us a little bit about your plant sale: I got the idea…
Read MoreThe Penguin Project Wausau: A Beacon of Inclusion and Empowerment for Individuals with Disabilities
The Penguin Project Wausau is a shining example of how the arts can become a powerful platform for inclusion, empowerment, and the celebration of diversity. This program, which is part of a broader national initiative, offers a remarkable opportunity for individuals with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome, to showcase their talents in theater. It…
Read MoreGiGi’s Receives $10,000 Grant from Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin
GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau is thrilled to announce that we have received a generous $10,000 grant from the Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin. This funding will be instrumental in enhancing our facilities and improving the efficiency of our operations, ultimately benefiting the individuals with Down syndrome and their families who rely on our services. Enhancing…
Read MoreCelebrating Our Volunteers: GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau’s First Volunteer Retreat of 2025
At GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau, our volunteers are the heart and soul of our mission. Their dedication, passion, and tireless efforts make it possible for us to provide life-changing programs and support to individuals with Down syndrome and their families. To honor and empower these incredible individuals, we recently hosted our first volunteer retreat of 2025,…
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