Volunteer Spotlight: Melissa Quinlan
At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we are lucky to have a strong team of volunteers who pour their time and talent into advancing our mission of acceptance for all. This month, we’re honored to spotlight Melissa Quinlan, a dynamic volunteer and dedicated supporter of our Playhouse.
Get to Know Melissa and Her Involvement at GiGi’s!
Melissa is married to her incredibly supportive husband, Justin, and is a proud mom to two wonderful daughters—Piper (9) and Aria (8). The Quinlan family has deep roots in the Canton area, where they’ve spent most of their lives. Melissa also balances a full-time role at The Timken Company as the Marketing Communications Manager for the engineered bearing business.
So how did Melissa get connected with GiGi’s Playhouse? It all started with two Timken co-workers, Ben and Nicole Morrett. Ben shared that GiGi’s was seeking marketing and communications support—and once Melissa took the tour, she was immediately hooked.
“The services GiGi’s provides to both participants and caretakers are incredibly impactful,” she shared. “I also love the overall mission of acceptance for all.”
Melissa serves as a Board Member for Marketing & Communications, where she plays a vital role in shaping our messaging and outreach. She helps guide the overall marketing strategy across our digital platforms, including social media, our website, and newsletters. On top of that, she is a committed member of the Dash for Down Syndrome committee, helping us amplify the message and raise funds through this major annual event.
When she’s not working or volunteering, Melissa loves running and is incredibly passionate about health and fitness. “It’s good for you both physically and mentally,” she says. “Our bodies are meant to move!” She believes deeply in the connection between physical wellness and mental health—values that align beautifully with the mission of our Dash event.
Her favorite experience at GiGi’s? Cheering on our amazing participants during the Dash for Down Syndrome. “Whether they’re doing the kids or family walk or tackling the full 5k distance, it warms my heart to see them work hard and enjoy the sense of community we’ve built at GiGi’s Playhouse Canton.”
Melissa’s energy and expertise have made a real difference—and now, you can too! Join us for this year’s GiGiFIT Acceptance Challenge: Dash for Down Syndrome 5K. Create a team, join a team, or donate to support one. Every dollar raised goes right back into the Playhouse to continue offering FREE programs to individuals with Down syndrome and their families. You can check out more information about our Dash for Down Syndrome below. Let’s Dash together and keep making a difference, one step at a time! 🏃♀️💙
Thank you, Melissa, for everything you do to support GiGi’s Playhouse—you truly help us turn belief into action every single day!!
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