Last week my mom and I had the wonderful opportunity to attend the annual GiGi’s Playhouse Las Vegas gala. This event is always such a magical evening that brings out every emotion, and it is deeply meaningful to me. I never take the chance to attend for granted. The gala gathers people from all over the community and gives them the chance to hear from families like mine about how important GiGi’s Playhouse is for individuals with Down Syndrome.
The gala is more than an evening of fun. It raises critical funds to keep GiGi’s Playhouse programs free for families. These programs focus on education, fitness, social opportunities, and life skills for individuals with Down Syndrome of all ages. GiGi’s Playhouse began in 2003 when founder Nancy Gianni wanted to create a place where her daughter GiGi, and others with Down Syndrome, could be celebrated, empowered, and supported. What started as a single playhouse in Illinois has grown into a nationwide movement.
Our playhouse in Las Vegas has not even been open for three years, yet it has already made a tremendous impact on the community. Families walk through the doors every day looking for connection, encouragement, and a safe place where their loved one is welcomed exactly as they are. Some are brand new to the journey, while others, like my family, have been there since the day the doors opened. Each of us leaves with a renewed sense of belonging. GiGi’s Playhouse shines a positive light on everyone who walks inside.
One of the most touching moments of the gala came when a participant, who also happens to be Kay’s friend, was recognized. When he first began attending, he often stood back and kept to himself, unsure if he wanted to join in the activities. Over time, as he continued to visit, he grew more comfortable and eventually became fully engaged. Now he loves being part of everything that happens at GiGi’s Playhouse. Hearing that story shared on stage brought tears to my eyes, because it was a beautiful reminder of the life-changing impact GiGi’s Playhouse has on each person who walks through the door.
Today there are more than 58 GiGi’s Playhouse locations, along with virtual programming, across the United States and Mexico. Each one carries the same mission of acceptance, education, and celebration. That mission shines especially bright at events like the gala, where stories from families inspire both newcomers and longtime supporters. GiGi’s Playhouse continues to grow because of the generosity of those who believe in the power of acceptance and in the value these playhouses bring to every community they serve.
Another important piece of GiGi’s Playhouse is the Generation G Pledge. This global movement calls on each of us to make the world a more accepting place by being generous, kind, and accepting every single day. Signing the pledge is a promise to live with purpose, to stand up for acceptance, and to choose kindness in our words and actions. It is a small but powerful reminder that real change begins with each of us.