By
Erin Coulehan
Photography by
Sergio Olivas
This year’s annual BeYOUtiful Fashion Show at GiGi’s Playhouse showcased the power of confidence, style, and unique beauty. Models graced the red carpet catwalk in fashions by the Cabi Foundation, bringing to life the essence of the organization’s message of inclusion, self-expression, and – most importantly – the empowerment of individuals who have Down syndrome.
The special event not only showcased the joy and pride of each model but also reflected GiGi’s unwavering commitment to redefining societal perceptions regarding Down syndrome.
GiGi’s Playhouse opened its doors in El Paso on April 19, 2015 and is the 23rd Playhouse in the country – the very first in Texas. Each Playhouse provides free, purposeful programs for people who have Down syndrome, offering support from birth through adulthood.
Each model in the BeYOUtiful Fashion Show strode down the runway in a proud declaration of GiGi’s mission to replace misunderstanding with acceptance and demonstrate that a Down syndrome diagnosis is only one small part of a person’s identity.
Everyday, GiGi’s provides free therapeutic, educational, and career training programs for more than 1,000 people of all ages in the El Paso community by embracing individual journeys. For many families, the path begins unexpectedly following a prenatal or early diagnosis that comes as a surprise. Families who arrive at GiGi’s Playhouse are in critical need of support, encouragement, and resources that are generously provided with a smile.
GiGi’s Playhouse in El Paso, led by Maggie Moody, stands by these families from the prenatal stage to career readiness, ensuring they are supported and equipped with resources to thrive. The unwavering support is bolstered by programs that are designed to address the unique challenges faced by people with Down syndrome.
For example, an example of a physical obstacle is hypotonia, or low muscle tone, that impacts speech, fitness, and motor skills. GiGi’s therapeutic and fitness programs work to strengthen these areas to ensure that participants have the tools they need for everyday tasks, communication, and confidence.
GiGi’s Playhouse also addresses cognitive delays through specialized math and literacy tutoring, allowing kids and adults to thrive academically using materials that are tailored to their unique learning styles.
As participants reach adulthood, many often face limited opportunities for employment and community engagement, which are gaps that GiGi’s Playhouse actively works to bridge through career training programs. These programs offer real-world experience hosted in a supportive and inclusive environment. The focus on career development not only empowers people, but also builds a foundation for a more inclusive workforce.
The BeYOUtiful Fashion Show embodied this commitment by offering a platform for each model to be celebrated for who they are, and an opportunity to shine, be seen, and applauded.
Beyond the runway and the Playhouse Walls, GiGi’s in El Paso is leading a movement toward greater inclusion and is inviting the community to join in the fun.
Down syndrome is a chromosomal disability for which there is no cure. To promote greater acceptance, GiGi’s Playhouse in El Paso will be celebrating the achievements of people with Down syndrome on March 1, 2025 at the El Paso Country Club with its annual I Have A Voice Gala featuring a Mardi Gras theme that will include a parade, car and truck decorating contest, live music, and more.
The community is invited to participate in the gala, and encouraged to invest in a future for everyone – regardless of ability.
