In Roseville, GiGi's Playhouse Sacramento is a community center for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, offering free educational, therapeutic, and career-focused programs. Since opening on May 16, 2021, the center has provided programs for people with Down syndrome in areas such as literacy, motor skills, career preparation, and self-esteem, according to GiGi's Playhouse Sacramento.
With 62 locations across the U.S. and Mexico, the Sacramento site is the only GiGi's Playhouse in Northern California. Nicole Harrigan, board president of GiGi's Playhouse Sacramento, told KCRA that the center serves as a place where people from both the broader community and the Down syndrome community can come together. She noted that the facility provides regular opportunities for families to meet and offers programs for adults with Down syndrome, who often have fewer dedicated resources available.
At GiGi's Playhouse, programs include activities such as art, music, cooking, and tutoring, many of which are run by volunteers. Missy Okelberry, the site manager, stated to KCRA that volunteers with hobbies or skills are welcome to lead classes: “If you have an interest, come, come and show us. If you have a hobby that you do, come and show us and we'd love to have a class.” A participant, Fullecido, told KCRA that he enjoys the community and the programs, including game nights, trivia, kitchen activities, and classes.
GiGi's Playhouse operates without state or federal funding, relying on donations, grants, and event sponsorships to support its programs. This approach allows the center to offer services at no cost to families, providing support from prenatal diagnosis throughout an individual’s life. Nicole Harrigan, board president, told KCRA that serving individuals of all ages is a key focus and that accessible resources are important for families navigating Down syndrome. The center continues to seek financial contributions to maintain and expand its programs.
