GiGi’s Playhouse Hosts Seventh Annual 3.21 Run in Noblesville
GiGi’s Playhouse Indianapolis, a local Down syndrome achievement center, will host its seventh annual 3.21 Mile Run on Sept. 10 at Forest Park in Noblesville. The event supports the continued growth of GiGi’s Indianapolis location and the 572 participants that benefit from its FREE therapeutic, educational, wellness and career programs.
“This will be the first time we’ve been able to host this event in person since the pandemic,” Executive Director Denisse Jensen says. “It will be so exciting to celebrate together in person once again and raise funds for the Playhouse.”
This year’s fundraising goal is $60,000, money that is vital to helping GiGi’s achieve its mission. “Like many not-for-profits, the past couple years have been a challenge financially,” Jensen adds. “Down syndrome is the largest chromosomal disability in our country and yet, it’s the least funded. This run is critical in helping us expand our programs and reach more people with Down syndrome.”
The 3.21 Run is also designed to educate and inspire Central Indiana residents to embrace children and adults with Down syndrome. Kids like 10-year-old Kinley Palmer from Fishers who was diagnosed with Down syndrome moments after she was born. “We love GiGi’s,” says her mom, Maria. “It provides a safe and inclusive place for Kinley, and it has provided our family with tremendous support and resources, as well as lifelong friendships.”
Adult Honoree David Harshbarger is 25-years old. The Zionsville resident participates in a number of programs at the Playhouse including EPIC, a program for adults that provides opportunities for socialization and community involvement. His mom Sue says the activities are key to keeping him engaged in his community. “As they get older and graduate from high school it’s easy to become isolated. Routines and schedules are so important for their mental health and happiness. We’re incredibly grateful to GiGi’s for providing that for David.”
The 3.21 Run kicks off with open registration at 2 p.m., along with live music, a kids’ carnival and a Silly Safaris show. The Kids Dash for Down syndrome starts promptly at 4 p.m., immediately followed with the 3.21 Mile Run and a 1 Mile Inspirational Walk.
To register a team, learn more about the event, volunteer or become a sponsor click here https://support.gigisplayhouse.org/gigifit-acceptance-challenge-2022/event/indianapolis-in. Registration is $30 up until September 1st and $40 after September 1st through race day. Kids 12 and under are $15. All registered attendees will receive a shirt and medal.
Serving children and adults of all ages, GiGi’s Playhouse Indianapolis provides educational and therapeutic programs at no charge to families in a format in which individuals with Down syndrome learn best. We will never let cost deter our families from participation or impede the achievement of our children and adults.
In helping individuals with Down syndrome achieve their Best of All, we also advance our larger vision of global acceptance for people of all abilities. All programs aim to maximize self-confidence and empower individuals to achieve their greatest potential. GiGi’s Playhouse Indianapolis is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization.
Learn more at http://gigisplayhouse.org/indianapolis