Celebrating the Heart of GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland: Volunteer Appreciation Night

Volunteer Appreciation Night at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland was an unforgettable evening of gratitude, joy, and connection. This annual celebration is our way of recognizing the incredible people who dedicate their time, energy, and love to our participants, families, and Playhouse.

Our participants and families took the lead in giving back to the volunteers through thoughtful tokens of appreciation. Stations were filled with gifts like Penzey spices, jars of honey, and custom pens, each handed out with heartfelt thanks. Families also donated an impressive array of desserts and snacks, adding to the festive atmosphere.

We took a moment to honor individual volunteers who went above and beyond in 2024. While we celebrated these unique achievements, we also recognized the unwavering commitment of every volunteer, each of whom plays an integral role in making our Playhouse thrive.

Volunteer Awards

Ripple Effect Award: Sydney Wisnor – Tutor, LMNOP, Destination Discovery, GiGiFIT Teen Program Assist

Most Enthusiastic: Tim Jones – Games with Friends Adult Program Assist

The Helping Hand: Carrie Litten – Board Secretary and Events Committee

Long Service: Monique Boyd – Destination Discovery Program Assist

Rockstar Rookie: Anna Milligan – GiGiFIT Kids Program Assist

Bright Beginner: Erin Goldberg – Leaps & Bounds Program Assist

Dynamic Duo: Taylor Heintz & Molly Martin – Destination Discovery Program Co-Leads

The Comeback: Kim Fennell – Fantastic Friends Program Co-Lead

Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop: Erin Sweeney – Games with Friends Program Assist, Fantastic Friends Karaoke Program Lead

Passionate Parent: Debbie Cluts – Drama Troupe Program Lead

Miss Intentionality: Rachel McCue – Leaps & Bounds Program Lead

Rising Advocate: Arthur Wallace – LMNOP and Teen Tastic Program Assist

Big Honors of the Night

Generation G Award: Lola Skinner
Lola, a high school senior, joined GiGi’s Playhouse in March 2022 as a Program Assist for Destination Discovery and quickly expanded her involvement, taking on additional roles in Drama Troupe and Games with Friends Teen. This past year she became a member of the Generation G Youth Board, regularly giving tours to medical residents or donors, and enjoys speaking at community outreach events, even on a moment’s notice. Additionally, each year she encourages birthday donations to GiGi’s Playhouse in lieu of gifts. Lola’s passion, creativity, and dedication shine through in all she does, truly embodying the spirit of Generation G.

Volunteer of the Year: Matt Mrosko
Matt’s unmatched dedication shines through his involvement in multiple weekly GiGiFIT sessions, Fantastic Friends, Fantastic Friends Karaoke, Teen Tastic, and his willingness to step in wherever needed. He dives right into each program, whether that’s encouraging a participant to do one more rep at GiGiFIT, or by holding the iPad for 2 hours straight during Karoake night – so each participant has their moment to SHINE! His steadfast commitment has enriched our community beyond measure.

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The night culminated in a heartfelt moment when several participants took the stage to personally thank the volunteers. Annie kicked off this moment of gratitude, by asking to give a speech to the entire group of volunteers. Sarah then took the stage and thanked everyone on behalf of the Board of Managers. Ana captivated the room with a moving rendition of Beautiful Things by Benson Boone, while David shared an emotional and heartfelt message of gratitude. Audrey confidently took the mic to reflect on her growth throughout the year, emphasizing how the volunteers’ support helped her thrive.

While these awards spotlight individual achievements, we extend our deepest thanks to every single volunteer. Your love and dedication are the foundation of GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland, and we simply could not do what we do without you.

Here’s to our volunteers and all they make possible—thank you for making GiGi’s Playhouse a place where Best of All moments happen every day!