#United States #Charleston #GiGi's Playhouse #Down Syndrome

GiGi's Playhouse Opens in Charleston: A Haven for Down Syndrome Support

GiGi's Playhouse, a unique network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its 62nd location in Charleston, South Carolina on May 17. This significant milestone marks the first GiGi's Playhouse in South Carolina and aims to provide invaluable resources for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

The idea to launch a GiGi's Playhouse in Charleston began in August 2021, when co-founder Lynze Sikes visited the GiGi's Playhouse in Raleigh with her young daughter, Carly. Inspired by the warmth, acceptance, and opportunities she witnessed, Sikes shared her positive experience in a local Facebook group. This post caught the attention of Marie Myers, who would later join her as a co-founder for the Charleston location. From this spark, a dedicated group of parents and community leaders emerged, all committed to bringing the mission of GiGi's Playhouse to life in Charleston.

Over the next few years, the team organized community events, raised funds, and garnered support from local organizations like City Wide Facility Solutions. Their hard work finally culminated in the establishment of a vibrant 4,200-square-foot facility tailored for families impacted by Down syndrome throughout South Carolina.

Nancy Gianni, Founder and Chief Belief Officer of GiGi's Playhouse, expressed her excitement about the new Charleston location, emphasizing its role in the organization’s broader mission. "This Playhouse represents another step forward in our mission to ensure that every person with Down syndrome has access to free, purposeful programming and a community that sees their potential," she stated.

To commemorate the grand opening, Nancy Gianni and her daughter GiGi Gianni, the inspiration behind the organization's founding, will be in attendance. Since its inception in 2003, GiGi's Playhouse has evolved into a global movement dedicated to acceptance and achievement for individuals with Down syndrome. With the addition of Charleston, there are now 62 brick-and-mortar GiGi's Playhouse locations across the United States and Mexico.

GiGi's Playhouse offers a variety of free educational, therapeutic, and career development programs, designed to support individuals from prenatal diagnosis through adulthood. The organization relies completely on donations, grants, and community contributions, encouraging locals to join the cause and help empower families with children who have Down syndrome.

In addition to Charleston's opening, GiGi's Playhouse boasts virtual programming that reaches families in over 93 countries, ensuring a global community of support. This expansion is more than just the opening of a facility; it is about fostering a culture of acceptance, hope, and empowerment for families navigating the challenges associated with Down syndrome.

For parents and advocates in Charleston, GiGi's Playhouse is set to become a cornerstone of support and celebration, changing the lives of many within the community. To learn more about GiGi's Playhouse and how to get involved, visit their official website, where additional resources and information about their programs can be found.