Best of All – Cooper

Every participant has a story, and Cooper’s is one of confidence, connection, and discovering the power of his own voice. Whether he’s drumming along to the beat or singing his favorite song, “Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga, Cooper brings joy, humor, and heart everywhere he goes. His journey reminds us that growth doesn’t happen all at once. It unfolds one friendship, one conversation, and one brave moment at a time. We invite you to discover why Cooper is featured as this month’s Best of All and how he continues to inspire everyone at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland.

When Cooper first joined us for Project Pulse Teen, he was quiet, reserved, and happiest observing the group. While he wasn’t ready to jump into every conversation or song, there was one thing that was impossible to miss, and that was his love for music. You could see it in the way he’d peek up to watch the group drumming together. You could hear it when he’d quietly share one of his favorite songs with a Program Assistant. Even when his voice was soft, his passion spoke volumes.

Session after session, Cooper kept showing up.

Little by little, something incredible began to happen.

His confidence started to grow. His quick wit began to shine through. His love for Lady Gaga, and music in general, became something he was excited to share with others. Most importantly, friendships started to form as Cooper became more comfortable being himself.

His parents would often tell us, “He’s always talking and singing at home!” We knew there was a confident young man just waiting for the right environment to let his personality shine. That moment came during our 2026 Teddy Bear Clinic. Throughout the event, Cooper advocated for himself, used a strong, confident voice, and embraced his growing independence. Our Operations Manager and Project Pulse Lead smiled and told him, “The cat’s out of the bag!” There was no going back to hiding that incredible voice. From that day forward, Cooper’s sparkle grew and grew.

Once Mom and Dad would head out after dropping him off at Project Pulse, Cooper’s eyes were up. He engaged with his peers. He joined conversations. He spoke with confidence. When that happened, everyone quickly discovered something else about Cooper – he is absolutely hilarious.

One of our favorite moments came during a group icebreaker when everyone was asked, “If you could have any animal as a pet, what would it be?” All the teens and volunteers shared their answers. From the common “cat” and “dog” to some more wild animals like a koala, the last person to answer was Cooper. Without missing a beat, Cooper confidently replied, “I don’t need a pet. I have a brother.” The room erupted with laughter, as his clever sense of humor was on full display and something we’ve all come to love about him.

Cooper’s growth has been impossible to miss, and no one has witnessed it more closely than the volunteers and staff who spend each Tuesday evening with him at Project Pulse. Program Assistant Ericka has loved watching Cooper become more confident, sharing, “Cooper has grown so much! I love that he’s finding his voice more and is more comfortable speaking in front of everyone. He’s also learned all of the different drumming moves so well. He’s very smart and a quick learner. Just such an amazing kid!” That growing confidence has been equally evident to Program Assistant Jim, who reflected, “I love how much he’s opened up with the group. Sharing, participating, interacting with the other teens, and speaking up for himself. It’s been amazing to watch.” Program Assistant Emily echoed those sentiments, adding, “Seeing Cooper’s growth just puts a smile on my face! He has grown so much since last session and even within these past eight weeks. Each week he is building his confidence with his drumming and communication skills.” Lastly, Project Pulse Lead Mary shared, “Cooper’s confidence, musical ability, and sense of humor are all a force to be reckoned with. It has been beautiful to witness all those aspects come alive the more he comes to GiGi’s. What I love most is seeing how his confidence promotes his ability in creating friendships within the group. You can see how he finds joy and meaning in the program, his friends, and in himself. We are all so lucky to know Cooper!”

At GiGi’s Playhouse, our Best of All celebrates an individual challenge, a personal goal, or a growth moment that is unique to each participant. For Cooper, his Best of All isn’t just learning new drumming rhythms or speaking a little louder. It’s embracing the confidence to be authentically himself.

Now, when Cooper walks into Project Pulse, we don’t just see a talented musician. We see a friend who makes others laugh, encourages those around him, and isn’t afraid to let his voice be heard.