One of the most challenging parts of charitable giving is that you don’t get to see where your dollars are going, or how they help real people.

It doesn’t have to be that way, though. And in fact, it’s possible to not only see the difference you’re making up close, but also have a great time doing it.

That’s the "I Have a Voice" gala, happening February 9, 2019 at the historic Depot at the Renaissance Minneapolis Hotel, and ticket sales are closing soon.

Hosted by GiGi’s Playhouse, a non-profit organization working to change the way the world views Down syndrome, the gala is a night of fun, inspiration, and empowerment — not to mention your chance to help individuals with Down syndrome right here in the Twin Cities.

But what does that really mean, and who will the gala be helping? Let Danyela, the mom of 18-year-old GiGi’s alum Anthony explain.

‘Life-changing education and support’

“My son Anthony was 7 years old the first time we walked through the doors of a GiGi’s Playhouse,” Danyela says, explaining that they’d taken a family trip from Iowa to help the GiGi’s location in Chicago celebrate their third anniversary.

“It was just one visit, but it truly touched our hearts forever… we felt celebrated, welcomed, and loved,” Danyela says.

And the effects on Anthony were dramatic, as he was inspired to try riding a pony, which had previously been a fear of his. He would eventually go on to participate in a local horse therapy program for the next three years.

GiGi’s Playhouse (whose locations deliver free educational and career development programs for people with Down syndrome and their families) would come into Anthony’s life again, when the family moved back to their home state of Minnesota.

While initially concerned that her son might have gotten too old for the program, Danyela’s worries were quickly put to rest.

“I have since learned – it’s never too late,” she says.

Now a junior in high school, Anthony has been involved in health and social skills classes at GiGi’s, has taken to dancing “many hours straight” on Teen Nights, and has also participated in the Special Olympics with “Team G” (to name just a few of his many activities in the program).

“My favorite part, as his mom, is watching the smile grow on his face when he knows he gets to go to GiGi’s — a place where he knows he belongs,” Danyela said.

Time is running out

With ticket sales closing on Friday, Feb. 1, there’s not much time left to take part in this unique opportunity to help. As of this writing, there’s five days left to reserve your seat — but do it soon, because spots are filling up fast.

Purchase a ticket and RSVP at the link below.

Buy tickets right here (Individual tickets and tables are available)

We can't wait to see you there!