July Volunteer Spotlight: Peyton Teter

At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do; and this July, we’re honored to celebrate a truly exceptional young leader, Peyton Teter, as our Volunteer Spotlight. Peyton’s compassion, leadership, and drive have made a meaningful difference in the lives of our participants and the Playhouse as a whole. A 2025…

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A Day of Joy, Unity, and Inclusion: Dash for Down Syndrome 2025 Recap

While the skies were gray and the air a little chilly, nothing could dampen the spirit of our incredible community at this year’s Dash for Down Syndrome! Families, friends, volunteers, and supporters bundled up, showed up, and proved once again that we are stronger together. From the moment check-in opened, the GiGi’s energy was in…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Sofia

At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we’re grateful to shine a light on one of our incredible volunteers, Sofia, whose compassion and dedication have made a lasting impact on our Playhouse community! Sofia is a Canton native and a proud graduate of McKinley High School’s Class of 2020. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, she continued…

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Best of All: Ryan’s Passion for Helping Others

If you’ve spent any time at GiGi’s Playhouse Canton since we opened, chances are you’ve met Ryan T. He is a friendly face who brings joy, dedication, and a whole lot of Generation G’s heart to everything he does! Ryan is not only a participant in our adult programs who happens to have Down syndrome,…

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Volunteer Spotlight: GiGi’s Playhouse Canton Youth Board – Leading with Heart and Purpose

This May, we are excited to shine the Volunteer Spotlight on an incredible group of young leaders making a real difference—our GiGi’s Playhouse Canton Youth Board. These teens are much more than volunteers—they are passionate advocates, program leaders, and champions for acceptance. Their journey with GiGi’s Playhouse started in different ways, but each member shared…

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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…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Heather Shaffer

At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we are incredibly fortunate to have dedicated volunteers who go above and beyond to support our mission. This month, we are excited to spotlight Heather Shaffer, a passionate educator, loving mother, and invaluable member of the planning committee for our annual A Night for GiGi’s fundraiser. Meet Heather! Heather and her…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Celebrating Elizabeth Mitchell

At GiGi’s Playhouse Canton, we are blessed with a community of volunteers who pour their hearts into everything they do, and Elizabeth Mitchell is a shining example of this dedication. Elizabeth’s warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine care have touched the lives of everyone she interacts with at the Playhouse, and we are beyond grateful for her…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Charlie Dear – A Champion for GiGi’s Playhouse Canton 

In this month’s Volunteer Spotlight, we’re excited to celebrate Charlie Dear, a dedicated board and committee member who has been an invaluable part of GiGi’s Playhouse Canton since 2020. Charlie’s passion for making a difference and his enthusiasm for the Playhouse’s mission have helped create a welcoming space for individuals with Down syndrome and their…

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Embracing #GenerationG: Bill & Ellen Spreading the Message of Acceptance for All

Bill and Ellen’s dedication to spreading acceptance extends far beyond the confines of their volunteer duties. By embodying the values of empathy, kindness, and inclusion, they serve as shining examples of what it means to be #GenerationG. Their willingness to step outside their comfort zones, connect with others, and advocate for change underscores the transformative power of community engagement.

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