GiGi’s Playhouse, a national achievement center for individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and the community has just opened a Nashville location. Offering more than 25 therapeutic and educational programs focused on advancing literacy, math skills, motor skills and more all free of charge.
Local mother, Melissa Wenger, whose child has Down syndrome, along with her child’s teacher, decided there were not enough resources in Nashville for people with Down Syndrome and lead the vision of bringing GiGi’s Playhouse to Nashville.
“GiGi’s Playhouse is just this incredible network of support and friendship where individuals with Down syndrome can benefit from educational or therapeutic programs masked in a fun, happy and hopeful environment,” shared Wenger. “It also brings families together allowing them to connect, share resources and support one another… giving newer families a glimpse into what their lives may be like 5, 10, 15 even 20 years from now. In addition, our generous community volunteers help us to break down stereotypes and share with the world how remarkable our loved ones with Down syndrome are! It is truly just an amazing place, and I feel honored to be one part of a larger team who helped bring a GiGi’s Playhouse to Nashville.”
It is for her work as a visionary and as a leader bringing these services to Nashville that Melissa Wenger is being honored as the Darrell Waltrip Automotive Hometown Hero for the month of November.
“Melissa knew about GiGi’s Playhouse, a Down syndrome achievement center first started in Chicago. She too wanted a place in Nashville where families could come to find information about their child’s diagnosis and network with other families,” said Margaret Ikard who nominated Wenger. “This would be a place where children, teens and adults with Down syndrome could interact, learn new skills and become leaders. With a great deal of support, Melissa spearheaded the effort to bring GiGi’s to Nashville that took nearly 2 years.”
Darrell Waltrip Automotive’s Hometown Heroes is a monthly event honoring local heroes. To learn more or to nominate your hero visit DarrellWaltrip.com
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