Start With Why

Last week I attended the GiGi’s Playhouse National conference in Chicago where I spent two intense, exhausting and inspiring days attending workshops, learning about new programs and meeting people from Playhouses across the country. They are changing lives through their playhouses, and it is incredible.

National Conference 2018: 300 leaders, 80 sessions, 40 speakers, 2 countries and ONE unstoppable voice for Down syndrome! #strongertogether

On the plane back to New York after the conference the man sitting next to me started chatting and asked how my weekend in Chicago was and what I was there for. It was an early flight, so I was pretty tired, but I did not want to be rude. So I shared that it was a great weekend and I was there for the GiGi’s Playhouse conference. During the conference, I attended a workshop called “start with why” (Simon Sinek – How Great Leaders Inspire Action, Ted Talk) which is all about communicating WHY GiGi’s exists – to change the way the world sees Down syndrome – before talking about what we do.

So, when he asked what GiGi’s Playhouse was, rather than telling him what we do I said, “We are an organization focused on changing the way the world sees Down syndrome.” I then shared that we offer FREE programs for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

I shared that Angelina currently has a literacy tutor through GiGi’s Playhouse. Next year she will have a math tutor. As she grows, the Playhouse will grow. She will attend fitness and cooking classes, and she will develop skills that will allow her to succeed in life. He was very interested and we chatted for most of the flight. When we landed we said how nice it was to meet and he wished me luck.

Last night, a few of the Board members were at our Playhouse talking about fundraising and recent donations. Tracy saw that there was a $500 donation that we received on Sunday night. There was no note that it was in honor of anyone, and at first we could not figure out how we got so lucky. Then I realized… I shouted that it was from the “nice man who I sat next to on the plane!” We all cheered! This act of kindness and generosity has filled us with gratitude and hope. To my seat-mate, I would like to say: Your generous gift will help us sustain our programs, and reinforces that we are achieving our mission to change the way the world sees Down syndrome. Thank you so very much.

Yes WEstchester CAN! GiGi’s Westchester with the amazing self-advocates who did a fantastic job on Saturday introducing every session.

I never asked him for a donation. I truly believe it was because I talked about the mission of GiGis. I wanted to share this with you all to show how every interaction we have is an opportunity for us to educate and inspire others. #GenerationG #BeGenerous #BeAccepting #BeKind

Gwyneth Meeks, Co-President GiGi’s Playhouse Westchester Board of Managers