Posts by Erica Erdman
What is Purposeful Programming?
At GiGi’s Playhouse all our programs are FREE, therapeutic and purposeful. We know what free and therapeutic is but what exactly is purposeful when we talk about programming? Per the Oxford dictionary, purposeful is doing something with intention. When you enter the Playhouse and see our Language, Music, N’ Our Peeps (LMNOP) group sitting in…
Read MoreAlways Set High Expectations! Braxton’s Best of All
Hello all! As the Playhouse Manager I try to know as much about all aspects of Playhouse operations and this includes programming goals. While I may know the goals and encourage other parents to follow, sometimes I admit I do not! Shame on me, right?! One of those goals is to instill high expectations for…
Read MoreVolunteer Spotlight…Meet Alexis!
Hi, I am Alexis! I am the youth board advisor here at GiGi’s. I also help with administrative tasks over the summer months. Best thing I have seen would have to be how the participants build such beautiful connections with volunteers. So many exchanges of smiles and laughter that could brighten anyone’s day! I also…
Read MoreExciting News…We are Expanding Outdoors!
We frequently talk about the continued growth in participation at the Playhouse and with this growth comes exciting news…we are expanding at the Playhouse! Permits have been approved and by this time next year we will have a beautiful outdoor learning environment behind the Playhouse. The new area will enable us to continue providing purposeful…
Read MoreBest of All – Brad
best of all (noun) \best of all\ is continual, measurable, celebrated and it never ends. It is a daily challenge to do a little better than you did the day before and it’s always celebrated. Possible manifestations: standing just one second longer, reading just one more word, learning just one new number, taking just one…
Read MoreThe ABC’s of Volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau!
GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau is not your typical non-profit when it comes to volunteering. From the colors on the walls to the fun purposeful programming, GiGi’s provides an unique place to make a difference! So, lets have a fun literacy lesson on the ABC’s of volunteering! A Appreciation! At GiGi’s we appreciate every volunteer. It doesn’t…
Read MoreGiGi’s 5K GLOW Fun Run/Walk Acceptance Challege…More than just a 5K!
Embrace the Challenge and Empower the Lives of those with Down Syndrome! Are you ready to take a step towards making a significant difference in the lives of individuals with Down syndrome? GiGi’s 5K GLOW Fun Run/Walk Acceptance Challenge, featuring a 5K run, Dash for Down syndrome, participant showcase, all age all abilities obstacle course,…
Read MoreTeddy Bear Clinic
Helping Kids Overcome Fear of the Doctor/Dentist/Eye Doctor through Play! A teddy bear clinic is a fun way for children to reduce their fears by giving their stuffed animals the care they have had, or will receive, from their healthcare team. Typically, best for ages 1-12, teddy bear clinics empower a child to take control…
Read MoreStepping Up to Make an Impact
We Need You! Two of GiGi’s Playhouse core values are Enthusiastic and Get it Done. In 2023, we showed our small but mighty Playhouse could Get it Done, through increased programming and community awareness initiatives. While we try to be Enthusiastic showcasing the amazing things our participants are achieving and the fun things we are…
Read More2023 Volunteers of the Year!
The Volunteer of the Year Award allows our community to recognize and celebrate volunteer(s) who have gone above and beyond in their volunteer service within the GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau community. The purpose of this award is to honor volunteer(s) whose dedicated service has had a significant impact on the Playhouse. In 2023, the Playhouse experienced significant…
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