Tag: gala

Gigi’s Playhouse Rochester will hold its annual fundraising gala virtually this year. The theme is “I Have a Voice Reimagined.”

The nonprofit Down syndrome achievement center will hold the event on Saturday, March 20. GiGi’s hopes to raise $75,000 at the Gala, which will support free programming for people with Down syndrome in the Rochester region.

The event will feature special guests, inspirational stories and live and silent auction items. Rather than purchasing tables, online attendees can host private “watch parties” in their homes, such as date night, family night, girls’ night or pajama parties, with the theme, decor and refreshments of their choice, as well as refreshments provided by GiGi’s.

GiGi’s is revealing an exclusive beer brewed by Rochester’s Sager Beer Works. T21 IPA will feature three parts malts, two parts hops and one part yeast, honoring the three copies of chromosome 21 that occurs when a person has Down syndrome.

Sager’s newest brew will be available to pre-order and pick up in conjunction with the Gala beginning on March 20. Four-packs can be purchased for $20, and Sager will donate $3 to GiGi’s for every four-pack purchased.

“This year’s gala will give participants and their families a voice and let our community know what GiGi’s means and has done for them during these unforgettable times,” said Jennifer Bustamante, GiGi’s Playhouse Rochester president. “With technology, we are still able to celebrate our achievements and our vision for programs. Several sponsorship opportunities are available that include delivery of great food and drinks to enjoy with your guests at the event you create. It all supports the work we do to enrich the lives of people with Down syndrome.”

Last year’s annual gala was canceled due to the pandemic. Roughly 500 people were expected to attend the sold-out event.

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