Current Volunteer Opportunities

By Rachel Ribbe | April 4, 2024

Welcome to GiGi’s Playhouse Canton! We’re thrilled that you’re interested in joining our team of dedicated volunteers. At GiGi’s Playhouse, we believe in the potential of every individual with Down syndrome, and our volunteers play a crucial role in supporting our mission to change lives through consistent delivery of free educational, therapeutic-based, and career development…

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Best of All: Tanya

By mvance | March 6, 2024 |

Tanya’s best of all moments are the dance parties after kitchen, she’s a pro dancer and will jam out to any song she hears.  Tanya has made many new friends in the kitchen while learning how to cooking, read recipes, and be safe in the kitchen!  She has made many friends in GiGi’s Kitchen and…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Steven and Aidelni

By Rachel Ribbe | March 1, 2024 |

Meet Steven and Aidelni Martinez Hykes, a dynamic duo whose journey led them from Phoenix, Arizona, to Canton, where they’ve embraced their roles as active members of the GiGi’s Playhouse community. Celebrating nearly a decade of marriage and raising a blended family, including daughters Stephanie, Natalia, and the youngest, Zoë, who was born with Down…

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Meet Anna!

By mvance | February 22, 2024 |

I’m Anna West! I’m From Greensburg, IN. Currently, I’m in my third and final year of undergrad at Walsh University, majoring in Exercise Science Pre-OT with a minor in Psychology. Next year, I will be pursuing my Master of Occupational Therapy at Walsh. I am also involved with many extracurricular at Walsh including being a…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Lisa

By mvance | February 1, 2024 |

Name: Lisa Eliopoulos Tell us a little bit about yourself. Hi! I’m a mom of 2 amazing kiddos- Isabelle, 15, and Branson, 7. My husband and I met while I was in high school and have been together for over 20 years! We have 3 dogs and 1 bunny. I am currently working for Direction…

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New Volunteer: Meet Andrea!

By mvance | January 25, 2024 |

Andrea has always had a profound passion for children, particularly those with special needs. She is currently in the final semester of her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy program at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, PA. Post-graduation, Andrea aspires to embark on a fulfilling career as a school-based therapist, dedicated to making a positive impact on…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Ava

By mvance | January 1, 2024 |

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.…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Jen

By mvance | December 1, 2023 |

Name: Jen Perko Tell us a little bit about yourself. I am a mother of two beautiful children, Sebastian (14) and Madilyn (11). Married for 15 wonderful years to my husband/best friend John. I own Luvih Yoga Studio, in downtown Massillon, where I get to do what I love, teach and practice yoga. Supporting mental…

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Volunteer Spotlight: Angel

By mvance | November 1, 2023 |

Name: Angel Henne Tell us a little bit about yourself. I am stay at home Mom of 2 boys age 18 and 8. I have been married to my husband who is a Police Officer for 22 years. We live in Perry Twp. I homeschool my youngest who has autism, adhd and epilepsy. Most of…

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