#BANDZFORTHEWORLD March Partner - Down for Donuts, supporting Gigi’s Playhouse Gainesville
Down for Donuts is a functional fitness competition in Ocala, FL that raises money to support nonprofit Gigi’s Playhouse in Gainesville, FL. Gigi’s Playhouse was the first Down syndrome achievement center in the state of Florida, helping both children and adults. “All programs aim to maximize self-confidence and empower individuals to achieve their greatest potential,” says Gigi’s.
Gigi’s Playhouse is an incredibly important organization for Ted Dreaver, owner of Down for Donuts and Crossfit Iron Legion. Ted and Karen Dreaver’s daughter, Kiera, was born with Down syndrome and found great support and information from Gigi’s Playhouse. On one Donut Friday Karen created a meme using Kiera’s face because she was making a “donut face” which further led to the creation of her Instagram @Kierasdownfordonuts. Her Instagram handle inspired the founding of Down for Donuts which is on it’s 6th year of raising funds and supporting Gigi’s Playhouse.
Each year in the United States, about 6000 babies are born with Down syndrome. Although a lifelong condition, the CDC says “services early in life will often help babies and children with Down syndrome to improve their physical and intellectual abilities.” Down for Donuts’ and Gig’s Playhouse’s mission is to offer programs to help people of all ages who function as best as possible in their everyday lives.
To help, BANDZ is offering a preorder of an exclusive Down for Donuts edition headband from which all profits will be donated to Gigi’s Playhouse! Additionally, 5% of all March sales via www.bandzwear.co will be donated. We appreciate all help to maximize our contribution to these organizations.