Acceptance
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 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 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 MoreBig News at GiGi’s Playhouse Wausau: Meet Our New Volunteer Coordinator, Lizzy!
As we step into 2025 with fresh goals and innovative programs, we are thrilled to introduce a new, yet familiar, face to our team. Many of you have already been greeted by Lizzy’s radiant smile as she led various programs as a dedicated volunteer. Now, we are delighted to announce that Lizzy is joining us…
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 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 MoreWorld Adoption Day…Stories to Fill Your Heart!
Jaren’s Adoption Story When we started our adoption journey we never expected it would take 4 years to complete or that we would have to switch country programs only to have a referral fall through. We didn’t expect to adopt a baby and we certainly didn’t expect to adopt a child with a disability. But doors closed and doors…
Read MoreThe Difference between Believing and Action in Inclusion
Many of us support various causes because we believe in its mission and value it in this world. For some they believe in something simply because others believe in it, and it is easy to jump on the band wagon. Typically, if we believe in something we demonstrate that belief through our actions. Belief is…
Read MoreWelcome Alexis to Playhouse Family!
Hello everyone! I want to begin by introducing myself. My name is Alexis Cleland, and I am excited to start my role as the Youth Board Facilitator. I heard about GiGi’s through many different outlets. After looking into what the organization is about and its alignment with my passions, I knew I needed to connect.…
Read More