GiGi’s Playhouse Westchester hosts 1-mile walk and dash at Yorktown VFW

The morning kicked off at about 10:30 a.m. as teams sporting custom event T-shirts filled the Yorktown Veterans of Foreign Wars grounds. Families, friends and community members gathered for Down syndrome acceptance on June 13, raising funds and awareness during the GiGi’s Playhouse Westchester 1-mile Walk and Dash.

Hosted by Alex, Anna and Gianna Mandara, the family-friendly event took place at the Yorktown Heights VFW and adjacent firehouse grounds on Veterans Road. The event brought together local teams, sponsors and families, with proceeds supporting GiGi’s Playhouse Westchester’s mission to provide free therapeutic, educational and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome.

Participants from across Westchester and Putnam counties laced up their sneakers to promote acceptance. Local businesses, including Game Day Grille, Dunkin’ on Downing Drive and JV Bagels on Lee Boulevard, participated alongside families, highlighting the community spirit of Yorktown.

Elected officials including state Sen. Pete Harckham, Councilman Ilan Gilbert, Supervisor Ed Lachterman and Town Clerk Diana Quast attended in support.

After the walk, attendees gathered for a family barbecue provided by the VFW.

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition in the United States. GiGi’s Playhouse provides free, research-based programming for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

Article courtesy of GiGi's Playhouse Westchester