Gigi's Playhouse Coming to Scottsdale in 2015

One of the best aspects of my life and career are the wonderful people I get to meet and work for. The one consistent theme with nearly all of my clients is their willingness to give back. Currently, we are working on a number of philanthropic projects from the new Colton Bat Cave which I will feature early next year, to the Charro Lodge and now the Corral at Scottsdale Stadium, to the Phoenix Dream Room - which we were awarded The Best Overall Room this year, to St. Mary's Food Bank, and now we are involved with a new, wonderful, project right here in Scottsdale, Gigi's Playhouse!

My clients' Matt and Jennifer Gage introduced us to the project this summer. "About a year ago, I heard about a mom from Chicago that had a daughter with Down syndrome," Jennifer goes on to say.  "And when she realized the limited opportunities for her, she set out to create GiGI’s Playhouse – a Down syndrome Achievement Center."  That was 11 years ago. Today there are 30 playhouses across the country with one in Mexico!  This mom was Nancy Gianni and she has gone on to break through barriers that have existed from the beginning of time and is seeking to change the way the world sees Down syndrome, One child.  One diagnosis.  One community at a time.  

Jennifer and Matt jumped on board and are now spearheading a Gigi's Playhouse right here in Scottsdale and we are so proud to have Candelaria Design involved in this unique privilege to be among this movement.  Jennifer is orchestrating and working with an amazing group of valley volunteers and philanthropists who are making this dream a reality for the families of Phoenix! 

"Because our programs are 100% free for our participants, we are always actively fundraising and seeking support from our community businesses," Jennifer says.  "We found a great location for the first GiGi’s Playhouse for the Phoenix Metropolitan area on 92nd Street and Shea in Scottsdale.  When I reached out to my friend and architect Mark Candelaria to help design the space – not only did he make a monetary donation, without batting an eye he created the perfect space for our kids.  It is partnerships like this that will help the Playhouse to flourish and serve."

Gigi's Playhouse is set to open in early January.  It is an absolute pleasure to help out and be a part of this dream. Candelaria Design Project Manager, Braden Santacrangelo, is spearheading the architecture design of the space for Jennifer and permits have been received and work is underway! I encourage everyone to make even a small donation during this Holiday season and help this project over the goal line. They can always use volunteers at the playhouse and this makes a good team building company project.  If you are interested in making a donation or serving as a volunteer at the playhouse, please visit our webpage at Gigi's Playhouse or call Jennifer Gage at 602.291.9476   

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