Gigi's Playhouse raises over $600,000 to support Down syndrome

The 14th Annual Gigi's Playhouse Gala took place on Saturday, Feb. 29. More than 750 guests gathered at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center for dinner, dancing and raised over $600,000 for Down syndrome support and programming.

Aptly themed "A Little Something Extra" - a nod toward the extra calendar day and the extra chromosome found in Down syndrome - the event opened with a speech by Grammy Award-winning music producer and television personality, Randy Jackson. Guests were inspired on the topic of global acceptance of all and encouraged to practice kindness, acceptance and generosity.

Attendees such as Miss Illinois and a number of retired NFL players enjoyed a performance by Bataille Academie of the Danse and live music by 7th Heaven. It was also the world premiere of the music video, "He's Different," by country artist John Paul Von Arx.

"Gigi's Playhouse was created to help individuals with Down syndrome and their families overcome the physical, emotional and financial challenges of having special needs," said Nancy Gianni, founder and chief Belief Officer of Gigi's Playhouse. "Saturday night was about celebrating these lives and the life of every individual with Down syndrome, and the ripple effect of global acceptance."

The live auction featured items such as a samurai sword signed by Randy Jackson (from the movie Step Brothers), an in-home dining experience by Gibson' chef Marco DiBenedetto, and an ultimate getaway to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. All money raised will go toward supporting pilot programs, one-on-one speech and literacy tutoring and expanding playhouse locations.