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GiGi’s Playhouse offers a unique achievement center dedicated to individuals with Down syndrome, providing a wide range of programs from educational and therapeutic support to career development, health and fitness, and social activities. These services cater to individuals from birth through adulthood.
Remarkably, every program is entirely free for families, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder access to much-needed resources and support. The organization boasts over 60 locations throughout the U.S. and Mexico, with a new branch set to open in Colorado Springs by fall 2026.
Board member Stephanie Kerscher, along with her daughter Caroline, recently sat down with Justin Antweil, host of Loving Living Local, to shed light on GiGi’s Playhouse and its anticipated community impact. Caroline, an accomplished cheerleader at Air Academy, exemplifies the potential that GiGi’s Playhouse aims to nurture.
In a heartfelt statement, Kerscher shared, “Our family’s journey is deeply personal. Caroline has Down syndrome, and she has taught us that with high expectations and available opportunities, so much is possible. GiGi’s Playhouse isn’t about limitations; it’s about unlocking potential. From literacy and math programs to career and fitness classes, it’s a place where confidence can truly thrive.”
Board Member Stephanie Kerscher and her daughter, Caroline, joined Loving Living Local host Justin Antweil to discuss how the community will benefit from GiGi’s Playhouse. Caroline is an all-star cheerleader at Air Academy.
“For our family, this is personal,” said Kerscher. “Caroline, who has Down syndrome, has shown us what is possible when expectations are high and opportunities are available. GiGi’s isn’t about limitations it’s about potential. It’s about literacy tutoring, math programs, career skills, fitness classes, cooking classes, and creating a space where confidence grows.”
What makes this so special is that it’s not just for individuals with Down syndrome it’s for the entire Colorado Springs community; volunteers will tutor, high school and college students will mentor, and local businesses will partner in career training. Therapists, educators, and families will collaborate. It becomes a place where inclusion isn’t just talked about it’s practiced daily.
Caroline taught Justin cheering techniques so he could get in the proper spirit.
“We recently signed our lease at the Peak Lifestyle Center, and we’ll begin build-out this summer with plans to open our doors this fall,” said Kerscher. “After years of fundraising and dreaming, it’s incredibly exciting to see it becoming real.”
On April 11, Board Members are hosting a fundraising event. It’s called “Rock Your Socks Dance Party” fundraiser at the Garden of the Gods Club. It’s a high-energy, joy-filled celebration where everyone is invited to wear their craziest socks and celebrate World Down Syndrome Day in the most fun way possible. Every dollar raised goes toward GiGi’s Playhouse.”