Finding My Place: Why GiGi’s Playhouse Has Been the Heart of My MSW Experience

My experience at GiGi’s Playhouse has been one of the most meaningful and rewarding parts of my MSW journey so far. From the moment I joined, I’ve had the opportunity to work directly with individuals with Down syndrome across a range of programs, from GiGi Prep to Kids Corner and holiday fun! Each week, I’ve been able to see how empowerment, inclusion, and community come together in action. I’ve learned how to adapt lessons to different learning styles, foster engagement through creativity, and build relationships that go beyond the classroom. Working alongside dedicated staff and volunteers has strengthened my understanding of what it means to promote independence and self-confidence in participants while creating a truly welcoming environment.

Through my time here, I’ve grown more confident in my ability to design and lead sessions that are both structured and flexible. I’ve seen the importance of patience, consistency, and celebrating small milestones, all of which are essential to social work practice. Collaborating with families and team members has also given me valuable insight into how advocacy and community resources intersect to support individuals with disabilities.

Looking ahead to 2026, I hope to continue developing my skills as a social worker by deepening my involvement at GiGi’s and exploring ways to expand programming that supports life skills, self-advocacy, and social-emotional growth. My goal is to design new workshops or refine current curricula to make them more inclusive and goal-oriented and increase the number of participants in the program and connect with other nonprofits. Ultimately, I want to continue fostering a space where every participant feels valued, supported, and capable of reaching their full potential.

-Shatha