Raising awareness & supporting programs for hundreds with Down syndrome
GiGi’s Playhouse Indianapolis, a local Down syndrome achievement center, will play host to its seventh annual 3.21 Mile Run on Saturday, Sept. 10 at Forest Park in Noblesville. The event supports the continued growth of GiGi’s Indianapolis location and the 572 participants who 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 said. “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 added. “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,” her mom, Maria, said. “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,” Sue said.
“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. Registration is $40 after Sept. 1 through race day. (NOTE: Sept. 1 is the last day for early bird registration for $30!) Kids 12 and under are $15. All registered attendees will receive a shirt and medal.
About GiGi’s Playhouse
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. Gigi’s will never let cost deter families from participation or impede the achievement of children and adults. In helping individuals with Down syndrome achieve their Best of All, Gigi’s also advances its 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 gigisplayhouse.org/indianapolis.