GiGi's Playhouse Deerfield

07/22/2025

Prepare for a license to thrill on August 23rd at Ferrari Lake Forest, where luxury meets philanthropy in support of GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield.

From 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, sip from an open bar worthy of MI6, savor a gourmet sit-down dinner, and dance the night away amidst the sleek sophistication of Ferrari’s most iconic cars.

This isn’t just any gala - it’s a mission with a purpose. Help raise critical funds so GiGi’s can continue offering life-changing, no-cost programs for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages.

🎉 Expect:

Glamorous vibes straight out of a Bond film

Electrifying silent auctions

Inspiring stories that remind us why we gather

And a community driven to fuel the future of GiGi’s Playhouse

Dress to impress. Bring your charm. And prepare to make a difference; shaken, not stirred. 🍸

🎟 All proceeds directly benefit GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield.

🗓 Mark your calendars. The mission begins August 23.
We can’t wait to see you on this unforgettable night of glamour, giving, and good company. https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/gala/

Nancy Gianni GiGi Gianni GiGi's Playhouse, Inc.

07/17/2025

Throwback Thursday! Last year Brian confidently gave a beautiful speech at our gala. Those in attendance were lucky to hear his heartfelt words but for anyone that couldn’t make it, you can read it on our new blog post!

“Hi, My name is Brian Rogala, I am 36 years old and I have Down syndrome. There are a few important things that I think you need to know about me…. “

https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/2025/07/17/brians-great-life-2024-gala-speech/

07/16/2025

🍎👩‍🍳 Exciting News from GiGi’s Kitchen! 👨‍🍳🍎

We’re turning up the heat — for the younger chefs! 🔥✨

Introducing GiGi’s Kitchen KIDS program, specially designed for aspiring little cooks ages 6-12! 🎉

🗓️ Tuesdays at 2PM
📍 Fun, hands-on cooking
🍓 Simple, healthy, kid-friendly recipes
👩‍🏫 Taught with love, patience, and a big dash of fun!

If your child loves helping in the kitchen (or just eating the results 😋), this is the perfect way for them to build confidence, learn new skills, and make new friends!

💬 Space is limited and we kick off (or cook off) next Tuesday! Register today using our online calendar here: https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/sfcalendar/

PS. We can accommodate food allergies, just let us know!

07/15/2025

A huge thank you to Vernon Township Mental Health Board for supporting our mission and educating on the importance of inclusion and acceptance in a community. We’re excited to put your grant to good use ensuring our programs remain 100% free to the families we serve.

July is Disability Pride Month, and a time to honor and acknowledge the contributions of people with disabilities. It’s also a reminder that disability is a natural part of human diversity - and that every person deserves to live with dignity.

Vernon Township is proud to support this mission by awarding community grants to several organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These include The Center for Enriched Living, Clearbrook, GiGi's Playhouse Deerfield, Glenkirk, Lambs Farm, Little City Foundation, Riverside Foundation and the Special Recreation Association of Central Lake County. These agencies provide vital services that promote independence, personal growth and community building. This month and beyond, let’s continue working toward a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

07/15/2025

🌟 Big News! 🌟

We’re thrilled to announce that Nancy & GiGi Gianni will be our special guests at the 2025 GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield Gala!

🗓️ August 23rd, 5:30 PM
📍Ferrari Lake Forest

Join us for an unforgettable night of inspiration, joy, and celebration as we come together to support acceptance for all and FREE purposeful programming for all ages!

Early bird pricing will end 7.21! Act Fast! https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/gala/

07/09/2025

We had a special moment recently - all THREE of our incredible Playhouse Presidents were here at the same time!

🙌 On the right: Cheri Spath, Executive Board President, who oversees the overall operations and helps lead our mission to support individuals with Down syndrome.

🙌 On the left: Buffy Stauffer, Youth Board President, leading teens ages 14–18 who are passionate about volunteering, event planning, and making a difference through community outreach.

🙌 In the center: Grace Spath, President of our BRAND NEW Young Professionals Board — launching this Fall! This board is for young adults (ages 20–29) who want to grow their leadership skills, network with others, and help support our life-changing programs and events for individuals with Down syndrome.

Want to be part of something meaningful? We’re looking for motivated young professionals to join our first YP Board! Message us with any questions or fill out an application here: https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/young-professionals-board/

07/08/2025

🚨 Early Bird Pricing Ends 7/15! 🚨

Don’t miss your chance to save on tickets to one of the most unforgettable nights of the year!

Join us on August 23rd at Ferrari Lake Forest for an evening of elegance and impact — all in support of GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield! From 5:30–10:30 PM, immerse yourself in an incredible night of connection, purpose, and celebration.

✨ Enjoy a gourmet sit-down dinner
🍸 Sip from an open bar all night
🕺 Hit the dance floor surrounded by stunning Ferraris
🎁 Bid on amazing silent auction items
❤️ Hear inspiring stories that celebrate the power of the playhouse

This is more than a gala — it’s a chance to make a real difference in the lives of individuals with Down syndrome, all while enjoying an extraordinary night out.

🎟️ Get your tickets now before prices go up on July 15th!
👉 https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/gala/

PLUS — we’ve got a big announcement coming later this week that you won’t want to miss! 👀

07/03/2025

Written by: Emily Mangan, GiGi's Playhouse Chicago Intern

07/03/2025

📸 Be the Face of 2026!

We’re updating our marketing materials for 2026, and we want YOU to be part of it! 🌟

Join us for a professional photoshoot on a clean white backdrop — all ages and stages welcome! Whether you're 3 days old or 93 years young, we’d love to showcase the diversity and spirit of our amazing community.

🗓 Reserve your spot using our SignUpGenius link below.
💵 A suggested $75 donation helps us cover the cost of the shoot (thank you!).

🎯 This is a great opportunity to be featured in our upcoming print and digital campaigns while supporting a project that brings us all together.

👉 https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090D44A9A72FA5FD0-57454716-2026

Let’s make 2026 unforgettable — with YOUR face in the spotlight!

07/02/2025

As we wrap up the excitement of GFAC and set our sights on the upcoming Gala, we’re filled with gratitude and enthusiasm for everything happening at the playhouse. June brought so much joy, connection, and growth—and we can’t wait to keep the momentum going! July is packed with enriching programs designed to inspire, educate, and empower our participants. Learn more about our new STEM program, Music Therapy, and Teddy Bear Clinic coming this month in our new blog post!

https://gigisplayhouse.org/deerfield/2025/07/01/summer-programs-at-gigis-playhouse-deerfield-july-2025/

07/02/2025

A huge thank you to The Fitness Center at the Buffalo Grove Park District for planning this creative and fun benefit for the playhouse! Our new supplies will make our one on one literacy program even better!

Join us Sunday, June 22 from 10:30 am - 12 pm for our annual Dancing with the Stars benefit for Gigi's Playhouse - Deerfield, an organization that supports individuals with Down Syndrome and their families. For 90-minutes, our star group ex instructors will lead you through energizing dance fitness. Donations are being accepted on Gigi's Playhouse's wish lists on Amazon (https://a.co/b5a1U54) and Lakeshore Learning (www.lakeshorelearning.com/lists-and-registries). For more information, visit bgfitness.org.