On May 3, 2025, Show More Kindness Charity (SMKC) invites the Valley’s most philanthropic and fashionable to don their finest Derby hats and bow ties for the 8th Annual Kentucky Derby Charity Event at the iconic El Chorro. More than a stylish celebration of Southern charm, mint juleps, and thrilling wagers, this highly anticipated event is a powerful force for good, raising critical funds to support GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix, a one-of-a-kind achievement center for individuals with Down Syndrome.
"Show More Kindness Charity was founded on the simple yet powerful belief that kindness should always be our guiding light," says Kimberly Guimarin, President of SMKC.
With compassion at its core, the organization is dedicated to uplifting and supporting children in the local community.
“Our Derby event is where style, celebration, and purpose come together,” says Kimberly. “Each year, our impact expands, allowing us to touch the lives of more children and families in need. Together, we are proving that when kindness takes center stage, magic happens—and we’re having the most fabulous time making it happen.”
This year’s event is hosted by Kimberly and Chris Guimarin and Cheryl Hintzen-Gaines and Ira Gaines, bringing together community leaders, philanthropists, and Derby enthusiasts for an unforgettable afternoon of Derby-day glamour, live entertainment, and high-stakes auction bidding—all benefiting a life-changing cause. While guests revel in the excitement of “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” the heart of this event lies in its mission: supporting GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix, a transformational nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with Down Syndrome through free educational, therapeutic, and career-readiness programs.
“The mission of GiGi’s Playhouse is to change the way the world views a Down Syndrome diagnosis, ensuring that children and adults with intellectual disabilities have access to the resources, confidence, and opportunities they deserve,” says Kimberly.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in every 700 babies in the United States is born with Down Syndrome, making it the most common chromosomal condition. However, many individuals with Down Syndrome still face limited access to tailored support and development programs.
"GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix serves over 1,000 families and provides more than 12,000 annual program hours completely free of charge, with most of its programs being volunteer-supported."
The Playhouse offers essential early intervention programs, literacy and math tutoring, motor skill development, and career training to help individuals with Down Syndrome thrive from childhood through adulthood. By ensuring that these resources remain accessible, GiGi’s Playhouse fosters a community where children and families feel celebrated and empowered.
“Every child deserves to be seen for their potential, not their limitations. This event allows us to bring that vision to life while celebrating for a cause.”
Funds raised at this year’s Derby event will directly benefit GiGi’s Playhouse Phoenix, providing educational tools, individualized learning opportunities, and therapeutic resources that enhance motor and speech skills. It will also strengthen the Playhouse’s mission to create a supportive environment where families feel valued and included.
"Despite their capabilities, 80 percent of adults with Down Syndrome remain unemployed, a statistic that GiGi’s Playhouse is working to change by offering career-readiness programs and job training."
Research has shown that early intervention programs significantly improve language development, motor skills, and social engagement—equipping individuals with Down Syndrome with the tools they need to build confidence and independence.
"This is more than a day at the races—it’s an investment in our community."
smkcharity.com