GiGis Playhouse Phoenix

04/11/2026

Thank you to those who have leant a helping hand!! We continue to receive In-kind donations from our wishlist on Amazon. Your generosity helps us control expenses and supports GiGi's Playhouse Phoenix operations and programs. Check out our wishlist on our website at:
https://gigisplayhouse.org/phoenix/wish-list/

04/10/2026

GiGi’s Journey to Meaningful emPloyment: Cirrus is making a SPLASH at Maui Fish House 🌊 ✨

After a recent GiGi U class visit to Maui Fish House, Cirrus made such a lasting impression that he was offered a job. This week, he officially started and is now working Tuesdays and Thursdays!

Cirrus shared that his favorite part so far has been meeting new people, building his confidence, and continuing to grow his social skills. He also said he loves the owner, Shane, and is already feeling right at home.

Yesterday brought a true full circle moment. Volunteers John and Walter stopped by to support him, Cirrus took their order, and then got to sit down and enjoy lunch with them. John, who leads GiGiFIT and also works closely with our GiGiPrep and GiGi U participants, has been part of Cirrus’ journey leading up to this moment. To see it all come together in a real workplace setting was incredibly special.

This is what it’s all about. Real opportunities. Real growth. Real confidence. We are so proud of you, Cirrus! 💛

04/09/2026

There is still time to support GiGi's Playhouse Phoenix through the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit and receive dollar for dollar credit on your state taxes!

Every dollar helps us continue offering FREE educational and therapeutic programs, services, and events to Arizona families with Down syndrome. QCO Code 20802. Click on link below to donate on our website.

https://gigisplayhouse.org/phoenix/

04/08/2026

We are so excited to be apart of the CHILL ACT in Arizona on May 9th. Lets make some meaningful change together! 💛 .act

04/08/2026

We are OBSESSED with this sweet (and sometimes messy!) pizza night from haliealane and her son, Lane.

It’s a perfect reminder that growth happens when we give kids the space to try, learn, and sometimes make a mess along the way.

That same spirit lives in our FREE programs at GiGi’s Playhouse, where individuals with Down syndrome build confidence, independence, and life skills every day.

Learn more about GiGi's Playhouse at our link in bio.
https://ow.ly/xevq50YCX1F

04/07/2026

Join us for LMNOP tomorrow at 10am 🫧 💛💙✨

04/06/2026

If you hate joy... this might not be for you.​

This video from says it best: working alongside individuals is full of laughter, energy, and genuine fun. It's not a one-way act of service; it's shared joy.​

That joy is something we see every day at GiGi's Playhouse.​

Yes, our network of Playhouses supports individuals with Down syndrome, but just as often, those individuals are showing us how incredible life can be. Our staff and volunteers don't just give their time; they leave with full hearts, new friendships, and a whole lot of perspective.​

Learn more about GiGi's Playhouse: https://gigisplayhouse.org/phoenix/

04/04/2026

Words matter.

This video from paigevictoriacrowder is a powerful reminder of how much changes when we stop framing Down syndrome as something to grieve and start recognizing it for what it is: a life full of joy... right from the start.

At GiGi’s Playhouse, we go beyond free, life-changing programming; we celebrate Down syndrome.

We don’t say “sorry,” we say congratulations, because we know the beauty of this journey.
Learn more about GiGi's Playhouse at our link in bio.
https://ow.ly/Z9n650YBYmw

04/03/2026

I would like to take a moment to publicly acknowledge Christine Leydon, whose passion, commitment and dedication to the Playhouse has helped us grow in such a strong and positive direction.

Since taking on the role of Director of Adult Learning in January, Christine has taken the GiGi U program to new heights with new energy! She truly cares so much for each student and participant at GiGi’s and goes well beyond just her job description, even Chairing the Golf Committee to hopefully bring a fundraiser here in November!

Very grateful for all that she does and proud to have her as such a valuable member of the GiGi’s Staff!

Chris Mays
Executive Director
GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix

04/03/2026

GiGi Professionals spent yesterday creating a special thank-you basket for Shane at Maui’s Fish Cafe after such a wonderful GiGi U experience! We’re so grateful for community members like Shane who support our young adults on their Journey to Meaningful emPloyment 💛

04/01/2026