12/17/2025
📰✨ EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!
Fresh off the press, our Impact Report:
🌟 Best of All - Wesley:
Since joining ballet several months ago, Wesley has been an absolute joy to have in class. He arrives each week with a big smile and contagious energy that lifts everyone around him. Wesley has grown into a true leader in our class, always eager to demonstrate movements, answer questions about terminology, and encourage his peers.
What stands out most is his focus and consistency. He stays present throughout each class, remembers the choreography from week to week, and continues to build on what he’s learned. Watching his confidence and technique grow has been such a gift. It’s a reflection of both his dedication and the supportive environment that GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh creates.
🎊 Volunteer Spotlight - Susan
If you’ve spent any time at GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh, chances are you’ve heard of “Music with Susan.” It’s one of our most beloved programs—and that’s all thanks to her. A radiant personality that fills the entire room with joy, a calming, comforting presence that helps our participants feel safe and seen. Whether she’s singing, dancing, or simply greeting families as they arrive, Susan makes everyone around her feel special and included. Most recently, she helped launch a brand-new program for babies ages 0–12 months, designed to welcome new families into the Playhouse. She planned and carried out the pilot session—and it was such a success that it’s now a monthly program! To make it happen, Susan even volunteers additional Saturdays on top of her regular music sessions. Thanks to her dedication, we’ve had new families join GiGi’s simply because they’ve heard about the famous “Music with Susan.”
We are beyond grateful to have Susan as part of our GiGi’s Playhouse family. She embodies everything a GiGi’s volunteer should be—joyful, passionate, dedicated, and deeply committed to making a difference.
🌙 Playhouse Inspiration - The "I Have a Voice" Gala
GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh’s annual “I Have a Voice” Gala brought together more than 300 guests for an evening filled with joy, community, and powerful celebration. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, supporters, and partners, the event raised significant funds that directly fuel our free, purposeful programming—programs that build confidence, independence, and lifelong learning for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.
The impact of this event was made possible by the many people who give their time and talents to GiGi’s Playhouse Raleigh. We extend our deepest thanks to our dedicated volunteers, our generous sponsors, and our outstanding community partners—including Raleigh Wealth Solutions and Glenaire Retirement — for helping us bring this unforgettable evening to life. The Gala not only supports the sustainability of our Playhouse—it shines a light on the remarkable individuals, programs, and partnerships that strengthen our mission each day. Thanks to this collective support, we continue empowering our community to shine, grow, and thrive.
We're so grateful for our wonderful community and are thrilled to celebrate their INCREDIBLE impact! 🙌
