GiGi's Playhouse opens in Portland, Oregon on September 27, 2024

GiGi's Playhouse, a network dedicated to supporting individuals with Down syndrome, is set to open its 61st location in Portland, Oregon, on September 28, 2024. This new Playhouse represents the first physical location in Oregon and is the culmination of efforts that began in 2017, driven by a committed team of over 50 community members. The initiative gained significant momentum when Brad Johnston joined as the Start-up Lead in 2022, leveraging his extensive business experience to raise over $500,000 for the project. Nancy Gianni, the founder of GiGi's Playhouse, expressed her excitement about the opening, highlighting the hard work of the Portland team and the free programming that will be available to the community. The organization was established in 2003 after Nancy's daughter, GiGi, was born with Down syndrome, inspiring her to change perceptions about the condition. The first GiGi's Playhouse opened in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, and since then, the network has expanded significantly. The Portland location will provide a range of free programs aimed at supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families, continuing the organization's mission to foster acceptance and inclusion. The grand opening will be attended by Nancy and GiGi Gianni, marking a significant milestone in the organization's growth and outreach efforts. This expansion into Portland not only reflects the success of GiGi's Playhouse but also underscores the importance of community involvement in creating supportive environments for individuals with disabilities.