Changing How the World Views Down Syndrome | GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento #nonprofit #downsyndrome

#charity #philanthropy #neurodiversity #community #impact #leadership #inclusion #awareness #collaboration #counseling #speechtherapy #podcast #kitchen GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento is helping children and adults with Down syndrome build skills, confidence, independence, and lasting friendships. Located in Roseville, this Down syndrome achievement center offers free educational, fitness, cooking, and social programs for individuals from infancy through adulthood. In this episode of The Nonprofit Podcast Network, I sit down with Missy Okelberry and Nicole Harrigan, alongside parent and volunteer Misha and her daughter Jasmine, a participant and volunteer. Together, they share how GiGi’s creates a welcoming community where individuals with Down syndrome have opportunities to learn, contribute, and be themselves. Jasmine also shares her love of cooking, including teaching her peers how to make omelets. It’s a wonderful example of how one activity can bring together literacy, communication, practical skills, and the confidence to lead. In our conversation, we explore: • Free literacy and math tutoring, fitness, and cooking programs • Early learning opportunities and support across the lifespan • The importance of friendships and continued learning after high school • How volunteers make these programs possible • Opportunities to support families throughout the Sacramento region GiGi’s Playhouse is working to change the way the world views Down syndrome and send a message of acceptance for all. Whether you’re a parent, educator, potential volunteer, or community supporter, this conversation offers a closer look at that mission in action. Learn about programs, volunteer, or donate: https://gigisplayhouse.org/sacramento/ 1701 Santa Clara Drive Suite 170 Roseville, CA 95661 Get directions(opens in new tab) Call: (916) 771-0199 Text: (847) 652-9689 Subscribe to The Nonprofit Podcast Network to discover the organizations and people making our communities stronger. Chapters: 00:00 Meet GiGi’s Playhouse Sacramento 03:00 How GiGi’s Playhouse Came to Sacramento 05:00 Free Programs: Tutoring, Cooking & Friendship 08:00 Supporting Development and Communication 12:00 Finding GiGi’s and Getting Started 16:00 Misha & Jasmine: Learning, Cooking & Giving Back 23:00 How Donations Keep Programs Free 27:00 The Vision: Restoring Speech Therapy & Expanding Programs 34:00 Friendship, Belonging & Life After High School 38:00 Beyond the Mission, Getting Involved & Closing Thoughts Thank you so much for listening to this nonprofit story! We appreciate you. Please visit the website to sign up for our email updates and newsletter. https://www.nonprofpod.com/