CHICAGO — Celebrated globally, Giving Tuesday has evolved into the most significant day dedicated to charitable donations, accumulating nearly $4 billion last year for numerous organizations, including GiGi’s Playhouse.

GiGi’s Playhouse, renowned for its math tutoring services, supports individuals with Down Syndrome. This charity was established 23 years ago, inspired by GiGi Gianni, who herself was born with Down Syndrome.

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“We provide them with reading programs, which is beneficial,” GiGi Gianni shared.

Currently, GiGi’s Playhouse extends its services to approximately 35,000 individuals across various global locations, offering these resources free of charge to families. Among the beneficiaries is Isaiah Marrero’s family, who reside in East Dundee.

“All the programs are funded entirely through donations, which greatly support families like ours,” expressed Nidia Marrero.

Given their reliance on donations, Giving Tuesday holds particular significance for charities such as GiGi’s Playhouse, making it an especially critical day this year.

“This was a year we had 17% growth in families served and everything we’re doing. But we have a deficit in our fundraising. It’s more important this year than ever before,” said Chief Belief Officer Nancy Gianni.

Financial pressures this year, thanks to inflation, are an issue for charities around the country.

United Way volunteers were packing food kits on Tuesday morning. They say the need for help in the form charitable donations on this Giving Tuesday is more important than ever.

“Just over the last couple months, we’ve seen people struggling in a way that I haven’t seen before,” said Kimberlee Gunther with United Way.

And experts say all the charitable giving also draws phony charities.

“The Better Business Bureau recommends you deal with a charity you know and trust and have done some background check on,” said Steve Bernas with the Better Business Bureau.

Adding to the impact of Giving Tuesday, many charities have donors who are matching gifts, doubling the impact. A donor for GiGi’s will match up to $30,000.