When CNN Hero Nancy Gianni found out that her newborn daughter Gigi had Down syndrome, she was devastated, but also dismayed by the negative reaction from those around her. In 2003, she started Gigi?s Playhouse to celebrate children and adults with the condition and help them reach their full potential. Since then, her nonprofit has provided free assistance to more than 25,000 families at 30 locations across the U.S. and Mexico.
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CNN Hero Nancy Gianni: A full life
For two adults with Down syndrome -- and their families -- Nancy's Gianni's program has been life-changing.
2:43 • Source: CNN
2016 CNN Heroes 11 videos
When CNN Hero Nancy Gianni found out that her newborn daughter Gigi had Down syndrome, she was devastated, but also dismayed by the negative reaction from those around her. In 2003, she started Gigi?s Playhouse to celebrate children and adults with the condition and help them reach their full potential. Since then, her nonprofit has provided free assistance to more than 25,000 families at 30 locations across the U.S. and Mexico.
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CNN Hero Nancy Gianni: A full life
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CNN Hero Cathryn Couch
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Veronika Scott's nonprofit group has made and distributed more than 15,000 free coats for the homeless nationwide and around the world.
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CNN Hero Veronika Scott
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