New Gigi’s Playhouse To Serve Area Southland

Gigi’s Playhouse is a Down syndrome support and education center and one is scheduled to open in the Bradley/Bourbonnais area this summer. Stephanie Wilson, board president, has been hard at work with her board of directors and a team of dedicated volunteers on a capital campaign to raise the money for one year of operating costs, which is a requirement for opening.

Currently, there are locations in Chicago, Fox Valley, McHenry, Hoffman Estates, and Rockford, as well as several locations in other states. A Gigi’s Playhouse in the Bradley/Bourbonnais area will add convenience and accessibility by cutting down traveling time for parents like Debra Strong of Manhattan. “I was driving to Gigi’s Playhouse in Fox Valley, but my son doesn’t always tolerate the long drive to get there. The new location will be a lot closer, making it easier for us to participate in their programs. It will really help out families along the I-80 corridor and we can’t wait for them to open.” 

Stephanie Wilson got the idea to open a Gigi’s Playhouse after giving birth to a beautiful little girl with Down syndrome, and was determined to give her the best life possible. Unable to find the support she needed in her community, she made a two hour drive to visit a Gigi’s Playhouse. “One step through the door and I was greeted with open arms and big smiles, not with tears and apologies.  The atmosphere was happy and energetic. The other moms and dads had similar stories to share and they were exactly the people that I wanted to meet. They believed in their children’s abilities to go far.” 

The playhouse will offer free programs and support for pre-natal diagnosis, 2 years and under, social skills and interactive play, math and literacy, teens and family, and a variety of other life-changing workshops. Scheduled to open in the summer of 2012, community and area business support is still needed. Fundraising efforts are ongoing in the Kankakee area, while support is urgently sought in other communities. Those wishing to volunteer or to help with fundraising efforts are encouraged to call Stephanie Wilson at (815) 683-5222 or email bradleyarea@gigisplayhouse.org. To learn more about Gigi’s Playhouse you may visit their web site at www.gigisplayhouse.org.

An informational dinner is scheduled for Tuesday March 27 at Aurelio’s Pizza in Frankfort from 6pm to 8pm to benefit Gigi’s Playhouse Bradley/Bourbonnais. Cost is $20 per person, payable at the door, and includes salad, pizza, pop/coffee, and dessert. Stephanie Wilson will be giving a short presentation during the dinner, and will be available for questions. To attend the dinner please RSVP by March 24 to Tim at (708) 244-3906 or via email to chevycounty13@yahoo.com.