Foam & Fun 5k for Acceptance: Join Us at the 2025 GiGi’s Playhouse Acceptance Challenge in Denver

Despite growing awareness around diversity and inclusion in todays day and age, individuals with Down syndrome continue to face social barriers that limit their opportunities to thrive and live in a world of inclusion and opportunity. Many families, friends and supporters want to do more—but don’t always know how to take that next step. The good news? Creating real change doesn’t have to be complicated—it can start with a day of joy, community, and connection.

That’s the heart behind the GiGi’s Playhouse Acceptance Challenge, happening right here in Lakewood, Colorado. This inclusive event hosted by GiGi’s Playhouse Denver is designed to inspire acceptance and celebrate individuals with Down syndrome through a high-energy community gathering open to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Allow us to take a moment to share why this event is more than just a walk or 5k run—it’s a movement for a wonderful community. We’ll cover what to expect, how to get involved, and most importantly how your participation can make a difference for our own local families and as well as the national mission of the GiGi’s Playhouse Foundation, which provides free, life-changing programs to individuals with Down syndrome across the country.

We’re proud to be part of this year’s event by bringing extra fun and flavor for all ages! Foamsational Fun will be transforming the day with our interactive foam party and bubble stations, while J&O’s Lemonade Squad will be onsite with our mobile beverage truck, serving up fresh-squeezed lemonade, iced teas, hot coffee, and more. We’re also teaming up with Bounce N’ Around to bring a variety of oversized yard games that the whole family can enjoy.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, local supporter, or someone just learning about GiGi’s mission, we are hopeful that we can show you how one event can ignite change—and how your presence helps create a more accepting world for everyone.

🧠 What Is the GiGi’s Playhouse Acceptance Challenge?

The Acceptance Challenge is a national movement hosted by GiGi’s Playhouse locations across the country. It brings together families, advocates, educators, and community members to promote a culture of acceptance for individuals with Down syndrome and all disabilities.

In Denver, the event combines a 5K run, a 1-mile inspirational walk, and a high-energy family celebration—all designed to promote inclusion through action and engagement. Proceeds from the event directly support GiGi’s Playhouse Denver, allowing them to continue offering free educational and therapeutic programming, and career building tools to individuals of the down syndrome community and their families.

💜 Why It Matters – The Power of Inclusion

Every day, individuals with Down syndrome face barriers that go beyond just the physical aspects of day to day life—they face judgment, underestimation, and exclusion. The Acceptance Challenge invites people from all walks of life to come together and say: WE SEE YOU, WE BELIEVE IN YOU, WE VALUE YOU, and WE ACCEPT YOU.

By participating, you’re not only showing up for a great day with an amazing group of people—you’re showing up for a cause that changes lives. You’re helping to foster a world where individuals with Down syndrome are embraced for exactly who they are.

📍 Event Quick Details

🗓️ Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025📍 Location: Heritage Lakewood Belmar Park 801 S. Yarrow St., Lakewood, CO 80226

🎽 Day-of Schedule:

• 7:30 AM: Registration Opens

• 7:50 AM: GiGiFIT Warmups

• 8:20 AM: National Anthem

• 8:30 AM: 5K Run Begins

• 9:15 AM: 1-Mile Inspirational Walk

• 10:00 AM: Kids Dash

• 10:30 AM: Awards & Closing Ceremony

• 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: 🎉 Family Fun Zone

  • Foamsational Fun: Foam Party + Bubble Stations

  • Bounce N’ Around: Yard Games

  • J&O’s Lemonade Squad: Fresh Lemonade, Coffee & Teas

  • Dj from one of our local DJS

  • Local Food Trucks

🌞 What to Bring (optional): Sunscreen, water, towels, and comfy clothes you don’t mind getting foamy!

🎉 Family FOAM & Fun You Won’t Want to Miss

This isn’t your average fundraiser—it’s a full-blown celebration of joy and community!

• Foamsational Fun will be delivering an interactive foam party experience where kids and families can dance and play in mountains of soft, safe foam. Their bubble stations offer even more magic with giant bubbles floating across the park—perfect for play, sensory exploration, and social media-worthy photos.

• J&O’s Lemonade Squad is bringing the flavor with their vibrant yellow truck, serving up handcrafted lemonade, iced teas, hot coffee, and more from their full drink menu. It’s the perfect way to cool down after the race or refresh in the family zone.

• Bounce N’ Around is providing larger-than-life yard games like Giant Connect 4, cornhole, and ring toss for families to enjoy at their own pace. Whether you’re competing or just lounging, these classic favorites offer screen-free fun for all ages.

  
  

🙌 How to Join the Movement

Participating in the Acceptance Challenge is easy and meaningful:

✅ Register to run, walk, or dash via the event page✅ Donate to support local programming✅ Spread the word using hashtags like #AcceptanceChallenge and #GenerationG✅ Show up and help us make this year’s event bigger, brighter, and more inclusive than ever before

🌟 About GiGi’s Playhouse – A National Mission with Local Heart

GiGi’s Playhouse is a nationwide network of Down Syndrome Achievement Centers committed to offering completely free programs that support speech, literacy, math, life skills, and more for individuals with Down syndrome.

The Denver location serves as a vital hub for families across the region, offering in-person programs, community events, and a space where individuals can thrive in a supportive and empowering environment.

🎈 Come for the Fun, Stay for the Purpose

The GiGi’s Playhouse Acceptance Challenge isn’t just a feel-good event—it’s a movement for inclusion, empowerment, and love. By participating, you help create a world where differences are celebrated, and where every person has the opportunity to shine.

We’re thrilled to be bringing the fun through Foamsational Fun, J&O’s Lemonade Squad, and Bounce N’ Around. Join us for foam, bubbles, laughter, and purpose—all in support of a more accepting world.