Volunteer Spotlight: Sherry☀️

Often times, we have engaged families who participate in Playhouse programs that want to give back in a meaningful way. Sherry first heard about GiGi’s Playhouse Canton through her sister, whose friend and daughter were involved with the Playhouse.

When Sherry first came to GiGi’s, she was 5 months pregnant with her youngest child and had a pre-natal diagnosis that her daughter would be born with Down syndrome. Sherry and her partner Dan came to a volunteer orientation in 2023, eager to learn more about the organization and how to get involved, and after Sienna was born, they have been regularly involved since. From her very first visit, Sherry shared she felt welcomed, and it wasn’t long before the Playhouse truly became a second home.

With a kind heart, a nurturing nature, and the experience of raising three beautiful daughters, Sherry embraces her volunteer role with ease and enthusiasm. Sherry has also introduced her first two daughters, Keirsten & Malayna, to what volunteering for GiGi’s can be like. We have gained two amazing tutors from this, and we couldn’t be more grateful!

Affectionately nicknamed around the Playhouse as the queen of holidays, Sherry works to bring the magic of our holiday events to life. Whether it’s through her inflatable pumpkin arch for our Trunk or Treat event, or introducing our very first “Photos with the Easter Bunny” event this year, Sherry is always willing to lend a hand and helps create memorable experiences for every participant. Without Sherry’s dedication and energy, many of our events simply wouldn’t be the same.

She also captures the magic of the Playhouse through photographing programs and events, freezing smiles and laughter in time. As Sherry shared, “I’ve cherished every moment and learned so much with GiGi’s. It has been a joy to watch our friends grow. This family has embraced us with open hearts and minds, helping us through all our new experiences, and for that we are truly grateful.”

Outside of GiGi’s, Sherry finds joy in the simple, comforting things in life: the rich, creamy taste of homemade mac and cheese, the sweetness of peanut butter fudge, and the nostalgic delight of funnel cakes. Her happiest moments are in the warm embrace of summer, basking in the sun while swimming, camping, or gathering around a bonfire (which of course would not be complete without a good roasted marshmallow). Sherry also enjoys watching sunsets, searching for constellations, and just being present in nature. To balance out this calmness, she also has a passion for the high-energy world of drag racing and a love of listening to (and singing along with) music. Her style is defined by her favorite colors (black, blue, and teal), and her shopping habits are built around the thrill of the hunt at thrift stores where she’s always excited to find the best deals.

Sherry’s nurturing heart extends even to her love for animals. She adores penguins for their formal attire and their sweet tradition of giving pebbles to their partners, a reflection of the thoughtfulness and care she brings to the Playhouse every day.

GiGi’s Playhouse Canton is brighter, more joyful, and full of lasting memories thanks to Sherry. Her passion, creativity, and dedication truly make a difference in the lives of our friends, families, and community.