Volunteer Spotlight: Sisters in Service – Part 2, Meet Julie

Last month we introduced you to Amy, our Destination Discovery co-lead, in Part 1 of our special sister spotlight. Today, we’re excited to share Part 2 and feature her other half—Julie!

While their personalities may be different, Amy and Julie share the same heart for service, inclusion, and making the world a little brighter. Together, they bring double the joy and double the impact to GiGi’s Playhouse Cincinnati. Now let’s get to know Julie, our amazing Leaps & Bounds Program Lead!

How did you first hear about GiGi’s Playhouse?

I first heard about GiGi’s Playhouse from one of the board members who started attending my Bible study. She was asking for prayers, as they were approaching their biggest fundraiser of the year. She explained that the organization is completely run off donations and volunteers. I thought that was an amazing and difficult task for any organization!

I started to do my research about GiGi’s Playhouse and I decided to become a monthly “giver.” But after reading more about the organization, I thought I would look into starting to volunteer. I have been a volunteer since the beginning of 2025.

What inspired you to volunteer?

I am a former early childhood educator and a mother of four, so the thought of working with children again was very exciting. And working with children with Down syndrome—though a little intimidating because I have no formal training working with children with exceptionalities—seemed like an experience I could not pass up.

I help lead the Leaps & Bounds program and I absolutely love seeing my little ones each month.

What’s your favorite part about volunteering?

My favorite part about volunteering is seeing the families come together and enjoy each other’s company and learn from each other. GiGi’s offers an opportunity for parents to not feel alone in their journey—to walk alongside someone who understands!

Of course, I love interacting with the children and seeing their faces light up with the activities that I plan, too. GiGi’s Playhouse really is the whole package! And the fact that it is a free program for the community is unbelievable!

What advice would you give someone thinking about volunteering at GiGi’s?

Go for it! Looking at the training might seem a bit daunting at first, but it really isn’t at all. Kaitlyn and Kris are wonderful and help you along the way.

You don’t have to be a professional or have a bunch of knowledge about teaching or working with other people—you just have to have a heart that wants to help! Trust me, the families that come to GiGi’s Playhouse offer you so much grace, knowing that you are there to volunteer and enrich their family’s lives. At GiGi’s, it is 100% okay to not be perfect! Everyone is accepted and celebrated!

Together, Julie and Amy are a powerful example of what it means to give your time, talents, and heart. Julie’s warmth and experience as an educator perfectly complements Amy’s creativity and advocacy—and our Playhouse is better because of both of them. We’re so grateful for the sisters who bring double the smiles, double the energy, and double the love to GiGi’s Playhouse Cincinnati!