August 26, 2016 – GiGi’s Playhouse Quad Cities, the local Down Syndrome Achievement Center, will host their annual 5K Run, 1-mile Walk and Dash for Down syndrome at Veterans Memorial Park in Bettendorf, IA on Saturday October 1, 2016. Participants will enjoy entertainment, ice cream, inflatables, raffles and prizes. While this is a 5K for active/competitive runners, it is also a family friendly event and a “fun run/walk” where people of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate. Prizes are awarded to the top runners and to the best costumes.
We invite you to come out and support the kids and adults who rely on GiGi’s Playhouse for free programs and positive support. This event and the local Playhouse is made possible by the continued support of local sponsors, donors and volunteers. GiGi’s Playhouse’s new 55’ semi-trailer and mobile billboard, donated by Nationwide Rail Services, will be on display, and Mo Mallard and the Ice Girls from the Quad City Mallards will be there too. GiGi’s Playhouse continues to seek businesses who want to support kids and adults with Down syndrome as sponsors of the event and “impact partners” beyond the event. A list of current sponsors is available on the website.
“Every year at the 5K walk and Dash, we see families forge new bonds of friendships and raise the bar for what their kids can achieve. We see children overcoming low-muscle tone in the Dash for Down syndrome. We see acceptance from our sponsors. And, we see people who just come to discover what GiGi’s Playhouse offers. It’s amazing to see them transform just by being around our kids. We literally see acceptance grow. There is always something for everyone at this event.”
For information on the event, please visit http://gigisplayhouse.org/
###
About GiGi’s Playhouse:
GiGi’s Playhouse is the ONLY nationwide network of Down syndrome achievement centers; changing lives through free, results-driven programs for individuals of all ages, families and communities. GiGi’s Playhouse is an inspirational and dedicated place for families to celebrate their child and benefit from free programs that unleash joy, confidence and continuous improvement. Playhouses empower children and adults to achieve their “Best of All” and to pursue their dreams. Founded by GiGi's Mom, Nancy Gianni, in Hoffman Estates, IL, the organization now includes 31 community Playhouses including the first global Playhouse location in Mexico. Last year, over 25,000 individuals with Down syndrome benefited from programs and support.
In helping individuals with Down syndrome, we work to address our larger vision of global acceptance for people of all abilities. Playhouse programs, marketing and PR campaigns, impact partnerships and community engagements aim to change society’s outdated perceptions by showcasing our participants’ skills, contributions and character. By breaking down barriers and changing the way the world accepts individuals with Down syndrome, we foster a daily mindset of acceptance and generosity for everyone. For more information about free programs, volunteerism, impact partnerships, events, and many ways to support our families: please visit www.gigisplayhouse.org.
