Volunteer Opportunities
Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer. GiGi’s Playhouse is a volunteer run organization and we rely on the skill and dedication of volunteers of various levels of expertise to keep our programs vibrant, educational, fun and free. Since the first Playhouse opened in 2003, GiGi’s Playhouse programs have always been free for our families. Parents, family members, clinicians, and individuals who believe in the GiGi’s Playhouse mission act as volunteers in GiGi’s Playhouse programs, events, administrative offices, and on our Board of Members.
Volunteer Orientations take place on the 1st Tuesday of every month from 7pm-8pm.
Types of Volunteer Opportunities
Programs
GiGi's Playhouse offers therapeutic and educational programs at designated times during the week. Our calendar highlights the programs we currently offer.
Program Leader: Program Leaders facilitate skill development activities and connect with families. It is preferred that the Program Leader has advanced education and/or training in developmental therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, behavioral therapy, social work, special education, speech-language therapy, music, dance, art or a related field.
Program Assistant: Program Assistants assist the program lead in delivering a purposeful program. Duties may include helping greet families, arriving early to set-up, capturing video and/or photographs during the program, participating in the activities and more. Program Assistant volunteers need a general knowledge of Down syndrome (which you can gain at the volunteer orientation).
Literacy and Math Tutors: This is an exciting opportunity to help those with Down syndrome with reading or math skills! The time commitment is 1 hour per week for a ten-week session. We match you with a student based on your availability as well as the student’s. Most tutoring is done after school, weekday evenings and on the weekends.
Administrative/General
Clean Team: Help keep our playhouse clean and organized. Our clean team meets twice a month on Sunday mornings.
Computer/Tech/Media: Help with our technology needs. Contact us for more information on our current projects.
Marketing/PR: Do you like to shine in the spotlight? So do we and we need your help with writing press releases, contacting media and more.
Marketing Communications: We always need volunteers willing to help us create posters and other event related graphics, help with social media, create blog content, and editing/proofing of monthly emails.
Fundraisers/Grant Writing: Do you like to raise money? Help us keep our programs free by researching grant opportunities, sending Letters of Interest, grants, and sponsor materials to potential donors.
General: Do you like projects? Are you really detail-orientated or like to stay organized? Administrative volunteers are needed to help with thank you letters, organizing supplies for programs, general playhouse organization, and more. While there isn’t a required time commitment, weekday availability between 9am and 5pm is most desired.
Events: GiGi's Playhouse has exciting events such as a formal gala, family friendly holiday events, a dance-a-thon, and World Down Syndrome Celebration. We are always in need of volunteers for these events, from planning and helping execute to being a day-of volunteer. The time commitment varies depending on the role.
Committees: Committee positions are open in IT, Communications, Programs, Finance, Fundraising, and Events.
Group Volunteering: Have a group interested in volunteering together? The more the better! Contact us and together we will set up a group volunteer opportunity.
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Questions? Email us at Chicago@gigisplayhouse.org