The Bears are home again for a game against the Los Angeles Chargers, which means that the Bears100 Community All-Pros Initiative will recognize another local organization.
This week's recipient of a $100,000 grant will be GiGi's Playhouse, an organization focused on therapeutic and career-development programs aimed at people born with Down syndrome.
GiGi's Playhouse aims "to change the way the world views Down syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all." With 46 locations in the United States and Mexico, GiGi's Playhouse works with people with Down syndrome of all ages and their families. The organization makes a lifelong commitment to its visitors and strives to give individualized attention to everyone that comes through its doors.
"This grant is a true blessing and will provide free therapeutic and educational programming to individuals with Down syndrome at six different GiGi's Playhouse locations across Illinois," said Nancy Gianni, GiGi's Playhouse Chief Belief Officer and GiGi's Mom. "The fact that the Bears are not only celebrating 100 years but giving back to the community really shows who this team is. GiGi is so excited to be on the field and be a part of the coin toss! She will be representing the 450,000 people living with Down syndrome and the millions who love them. Thank you for giving her and all of her beautiful friends a voice."
Gianni started the Playhouse after the birth of her daughter GiGi in 2002. The playhouse model has been replicated across the United States, offering resources to families dealing with one of the most common chromosomal disorders in the United States.
The Community All-Pros Initiative is an opportunity for the team to show its gratitude to the community that has supported it since 1921. Ten grants will be awarded over the course of the season before every home game, totaling $1 million.
