The Stark Trumbull Area Realtors (STAR) Young Professional Network Committee recently donated $300 to Gigi’s Playhouse in downtown Canton.

The funds were raised by the committee during its YPN kickoff event in late March at the Barrel Room on Canal in Canal Fulton.

“The participation and response from each fellow Realtor who showed up to our Kickoff Wine Grab event and purchased a grab bag was great,” said Vice Chair Christian Lamb. “We held this event for World Down Syndrome Day with the intention to donate the proceeds to Gigi’s Playhouse. Great events and worthy causes cause people to come out, participate and donate. This showed when we held our event at the Barrel Room. We look forward to working with Gigi’s and other great organizations in the future.”

At this event, participating STAR members were able to purchase grab bags for $20 in which all proceeds went toward the donation. The funds were donated in person to the facility by YPN Chair Courtney Hatfield and Lamb.

“In honor of World Down Syndrome Day, observed annually on March 21, the STAR Young Professional Network was honored to raise and donate $300 toward our local Down syndrome achievement facility, Gigi’s Playhouse” Hatfield said. “As a group of young-minded real estate professionals, we believe in the importance of bringing awareness and change to our community, not just through home sales but through volunteer efforts and giving back.”

Megan Vance, Gigi’s Playhouse in Canton’s newly appointed site manager, gave a tour of the office to the YPN leadership members on Tuesday. Vance explained the mission of Gigi’s is to change the way Down syndrome is presented to the world and promote a message of global acceptance for all.

The facility features several skill building rooms to help those diagnosed with Down syndrome that are diversified to cater to all age groups.

“We work with all aged individuals from infants to adults,” Vance said. “There is something for everyone here.”