Volunteer Spotlight: Ava

Name: 

Ava Weirtz 

Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

I am a sophomore at Jackson High School. I’m on the Track team. I also volunteer at the Pregnancy and Parenting Center and with Jackson Bearhugs. 

We want to get to know you! What are some of your favorites?  

My favorite food is ice cream. My favorite color is pink. Favorite season is summer. I love making things from scratch by sewing, knitting, and crocheting. 

How did you learn about GiGi’s and what prompted you to become a volunteer? 

I learned about GiGi’s when it first opened in 2019 because my older sister Brenna has Down syndrome, so I went to some programs with her and events. When I was finally old enough I started volunteering for LMNOP and Leaps & Bounds because I love the little ones! Now, I’m the Volunteer Chair on the Youth Board as well as volunteering for GiGiFIT Infant and GiGiFIT Toddler. 

Tell us more about what you do at the Playhouse! 

I’m the volunteer chair for the Youth Board. I volunteer with a lot of baby and toddler classes such as LMNOP, Leaps & Bounds, Infant Fit, and Toddler Fit. I’m going to become a literacy and math tutor when I turn sixteen! 

What is your favorite experience you have had at the Playhouse? 

Every time I am at GiGi’s, I feel so welcomed and loved. Everyone fits in and feels important. I love making new friends and seeing my friends every time I come in! 

Ava has been volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse since she turned 13 a little over two years ago. Ava is so passionate about volunteering that she has recruited her mother, Laurel, and sister, Brenna to also volunteer at GiGi’s. Ava takes the initiative and fills in wherever is needed. Her favorite is volunteering with the little ones and our new families quickly connect with her.

The GiGi’s Playhouse Canton Youth Board is made up of dedicated and motivated group of high school students who see the importance of increasing awareness for individuals with Down Syndrome, as well as creating an environment that is accepting, generous and kind: the three fundamentals of the Generation G Pledge. If you are interested in joining Ava on the Generation G Youth Board, please contact Sierra Crow at scoon@gigisplayhouse.org.