GiGi’s Playhouse Des Moines received a grant from Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa to enhance programming and improve access to essential learning tools for children, teens, and young adults with Down syndrome.

GiGi’s Playhouse is a nonprofit organization dedicated to changing the way the world views Down syndrome and sending a global message of acceptance for all. Through free, purposeful educational, therapeutic, and career development programs, GiGi’s supports individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the broader community from birth through adulthood.

Expanding Tools for Early Learning and Communication

Thanks to Variety’s support, GiGi’s Playhouse was able to invest in a new Literacy Library for its Language Music N’ Our Peeps (LMNOP) program, which serves children ages 0–3 and their families. LMNOP uses music, movement, and sign language instruction to help parents and children build early communication skills and strengthen developmental milestones in an engaging, supportive environment.

The addition of the Literacy Library has strengthened this foundation by providing updated, accessible materials that support language development and early literacy in a hands-on, interactive way.

Creating Inclusive Spaces for Learning and Celebration

The grant also provided new tables and chairs for children’s programming, helping create a more welcoming and functional environment for group learning, activities, and peer connection across age groups.

In addition, GiGi’s Playhouse added a new karaoke machine for teen programming, offering participants a fun and empowering outlet for self-expression. The activity helps build confidence, encourages social interaction, and allows teens to take the stage in a supportive, judgment-free space.

“Variety Helped Us Remedy That”

Executive Director John Claes shared the importance of ensuring participants have access to high-quality materials and equipment that reflect the value of the individuals they serve.

I am so impressed with the awesome volunteers that lead our fantastic programs, but felt that the outdated equipment and materials that we provided them fell short of what they - and our participants - deserved. Variety helped us remedy that.

John Claes - Executive Director

For families, the impact of GiGi’s programming is both practical and deeply personal.

As the parent of a newborn, you keep track of milestones like first steps and first words. When you have a child born with Down syndrome, you learn to temper your expectations. We knew communication would be a challenge for our son Simon, but the LMNOP program helped us realize it was possible. You might assume ASL is too sophisticated for a newborn, but it works. Volunteer leader Olivia Harrrell uses music and bubbles to capture his attention, and there is such shared joy when the sign language connects. We also love the new Literacy Library - GiGi’s is a true life-changer for us.

Parent

Investing in Sustainable Programming and Growth

This grant also supports GiGi’s Playhouse’s broader goal of strengthening direct programming through investment in physical resources and learning materials.

Like many nonprofit organizations, GiGi’s has historically relied heavily on event-based fundraising. Support from partners like Variety allows the organization to invest in durable, program-specific tools that directly enhance participant experiences and ensure consistent, high-quality programming.

Together, GiGi’s Playhouse and Variety are helping ensure individuals with Down syndrome are supported, included, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.