Posts by Erica Erdman
Volunteer Spotlight: Garrett Kohel
Being a volunteer at GiGi’s Playhouse can take on many different forms. Some volunteers lead group programs. Others support events behind the scenes. Some lend a hand when mailings need to go out or supplies need to be prepped. And then there are those special individuals who seem to do a little bit of everything. This month, we are…
Read MoreMorgan’s Caring Connection: Practical Support for Special Needs Planning
Morgan’s Caring Connection (MCC) is a nonprofit organization focused specifically on helping families who are raising a dependent with special needs prepare for the future. Its primary mission is to reduce the financial barriers associated with long-term legal and financial planning. One of the core services MCC provides is its MCC Grants Program. These grants…
Read MoreDiscover the Magic of the Wisconsin Lions Camp
I recently had the absolute pleasure of touring the Wisconsin Lions Camp with Camp Director Andrea and our very own Mark from the playhouse, who has been a counselor at the camp in previous years. From the moment we arrived, I was in complete awe. Andrea was incredibly welcoming, knowledgeable, and passionate, and I am…
Read MoreGiGi’s Playhouse Achievers and GiGiFIT Programs Are Coming!
We are thrilled to announce that two incredible programs—GiGi’s Achievers and GiGiFIT—are coming to our Playhouse! These programs will run during the day (day TBD at this time), and they are designed to fill a much-needed gap for our adult participants. Parents have expressed a strong desire for more opportunities that promote independence, social engagement,…
Read MoreGavin’s Best of All!
At GiGi’s Playhouse, one of the many shared goals among volunteers, parents, and staff is to celebrate and encourage the idea of “Best of All.” This phrase isn’t just a slogan—it’s a mindset. It means striving to be a little better than you were yesterday, embracing growth, and celebrating progress, no matter how big or…
Read MoreCelebrating Excellence and Building Toward an Even Brighter Future
At GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau, we believe in the power of community, the strength of families, and the importance of delivering high-quality programs that change lives. This year, we are proud to share that our Playhouse has once again been recognized for our commitment to excellence across multiple areas of operation. At this year’s GiGi’s Playhouse…
Read MoreCelebrating 5 Years: From Milestones to Movements
Five years ago, we began a journey fueled by a simple yet powerful vision: to create a world where kindness and inclusion are not just ideals but everyday realities. As we start to celebrate this incredible milestone, we reflect on the progress we’ve made and the exciting future ahead. Our campaign theme, “From Milestones to…
Read MoreGiGi’s Kitchen: Cooking Up Confidence, Health, and Connection
At GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau, the kitchen is more than a place to prepare meals—it’s a vibrant classroom, a social hub, and a launchpad for lifelong skills. The GiGi’s Kitchen program is a transformative experience designed to empower individuals with Down syndrome through hands-on culinary education, nutrition awareness, and kitchen safety training. Tailored Sessions for Teens…
Read MoreExploring Resources in Wausau: My Visit to Learning Grove ABA LLC
As a parent and a board member of GiGi’s Playhouse, I’m always seeking out resources that can support not only my own child but also the families we serve in the Wausau community. Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Learning Grove ABA LLC, and I want to share my experience—both as Henry’s mom and as…
Read MoreWhen I Know Better, I Can Do Better. Why To Attend The Educators Symposium!
Written by Susan Kirby, Gaga to Elton I continue to learn and grow during my retirement years, and I find that this season of life offers a beautiful opportunity to explore new passions and deepen existing ones. One of the most meaningful ways I’ve done this is through quilting. What began as a hobby has…
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