Gigi’s Playhouse has a mission: to change the way the world views Down syndrome and to create an environment of acceptance and inclusion for individuals with Down syndrome, of all ages. 

While there are 55 locations of Gigi’s Playhouse around the country, the Layton location (1916 N. 700 West) is the only one in Utah. Angela Horn just started as the site’s manager and is excited to bring free educational and developmental programs to people with Down syndrome and their families. 

“I think a misconception is that everyone who has Down syndrome is alike,” Horn said. “We know that’s not true. Everyone is different. Everyone has their own personality and their own abilities. We like to celebrate all of their abilities and all of their accomplishments as they go along.”

Programs at Gigi’s Playhouse include the popular Language Music N' Our Peeps class, recommended for children up to 3 or 4 years old. LMNOP teaches communication through music, fun activities and basic sign language. 

Gigi’s Kitchen is a program where teens and adults learn how to prepare nutritious meals. The class reviews a recipe, prepares it and shares the meal together. Participants set measurable goals and work on those a little bit each day, with everyone celebrating accomplishments.

Women who discover they’re expecting a child with Down syndrome often reach out to the center for guidance. With programs for expectant moms, all the way through end-of-life, Gigi’s Playhouse is a safe community. In 1980 the average life expectancy of a person with Down syndrome was 26 years old, now it’s more than 60.

The center shut down during COVID but has seen a resurgence over the last few months.

“This is one thing that they get to do and everyone looks forward to coming out,” Horn said. “As things are reopening, we want our families to have a place they can come to.”

Because the programs at Gigi’s Playhouse are free, the locations are 99% volunteer run. The center usually offers more classes but a lack of volunteers makes it difficult.

“We have over 20 signature programs but are only offering four because we need volunteers,” Horn said. “We really would love to have volunteers so we can build our programs back up. It’s my goal to continue adding new programs throughout the year and to offer more for our families. I’d love to be able to get our programming numbers back to where they were before COVID.”

Volunteers are needed to run programs, greet families, find funding and donations, clean the facility and provide marketing. Volunteers familiar with event planning are also needed to assist with the center’s fundraising gala in October. For information about volunteer opportunities, contact Horn at [email protected].

“I love watching everyone become the best versions of themselves and it’s really special working in a location that fosters community, not only with individuals who have Down syndrome but with our families as well.” λ