In 2002, Mimi Giannini’s daughter Morgan was born with an intellectual disability, and she began her journey into the world of special education. Mimi dealt with speech therapists, occupational therapists and special aides and had to jump through many hoops when it came to her daughter’s education.
When Morgan was five years old, Mimi met CAA co-founder DeAnna Pursai when she was running Angels on Stage and fell in love with her drive and passion for adult special education. She began volunteering shortly after that.
Mimi sits on the board at CAA and also runs Saratoga Springs, which is an expansive event center in Saratoga that hosts corporate events, weddings and more. Her knowledge of event planning and fundraising has been extremely crucial to the success of CAA’s annual Gala.
“I love helping to raise funds for CAA and creating events that bring people together,” said Mimi. “I’m grateful that I can give back to the community and make an impact on people’s lives.”
When Morgan turned 22, she enrolled in her first semester at CAA and has taken classes in Spanish, Digital Arts and joined the Cheer Squad.
“Morgan is loving her experience and is making a lot of new friends,” said Mimi. “It’s such a friendly environment and everyone really wants the best for one another.”
The entire Giannini family has also been incredible supporters of CAA. The Bill and Linda Giannini Family Foundation was the presenting sponsor of several Gala’s and generously continues to contribute to many of the school’s programs.
Mimi’s father Bill says that it warms his heart to help such a deserving cause.
“CAA has a great mission and fills a big need,” said Bill. “When you give to a smaller charity in your community, your money goes farther and you can see the real impact it has.”
Bill, who is a talented golfer and cook, hosts regular Sunday dinners with his entire family and loves to cook risotto and barbecue together with his granddaughter Morgan.
“I see what a big difference CAA has made in Morgan’s life,” said Bill. “ It’s a wonderful place and I’m happy to be able to contribute to their programs.”
