Volunteer of the Month – Ella!

Ella’s intentionality and passion for acceptance and inclusion took root several years ago when she launched her own podcast, using her voice to highlight stories that matter. In October 2021, she reached out to interview our dear friend Amy Jo – a connection that started small but has since grown into such a meaningful relationship with GiGi’s Playhouse. From the very beginning, it was clear that Ella carried a deep sense of purpose, and getting to know her has been an absolute joy, which is why we selected Ella as our Volunteer of the Month!

Tell us about you!

I am a junior at Purdue University, studying Special Education and minoring in Critical Disability Studies. At Purdue, I take part in Best Buddies International and serve as the secretary. I also participate in multiple intramural sports, including sand volleyball and softball! I am in Sigma Kappa Sorority and serve as the Vice President of Learning and Development for our chapter. In my free time, I love listening to music, hanging with my friends, and going to coffee shops! 

How did you hear about GiGi’s?

I first heard about GiGi’s through Summer Andrews when I was looking for more people to help with my long-term advocacy project, and she introduced me to Lizz! I was then able to interview Lizz on my podcast and learn more about the amazing GiGi’s community. I fell in love with the organization instantly and could easily see all the energy and passion that comes from the Playhouse!  (Check out Ella’s podcast, From Label to Able!)

What got you involved at GiGi’s Playhouse? How long have you been involved?

I first volunteered in 2021, my junior year of high school, after meeting Lizz and participating in the Dash for Down syndrome that following summer. I got more seriously involved the summer after my freshman year of college when I was able to participate in other programs. 

What programs have you volunteered with?

I first volunteered a few times at Teen Tastic in high school, and more recently, I have been a one-on-one math tutor for two students for the past two summers! 

Why did you start volunteering?

I started volunteering because the love and positive vibes at the Playhouse are contagious and I wanted to be a bigger part of it. 

Why do you enjoy volunteering?

I love tutoring at GiGi’s because I get to meet new people, and it is so amazing to see the students’ growth as the summer goes on! It is so rewarding to be able to use something that I am good at to help someone else. 

Why do you love GiGi’s Playhouse?

I love GiGi’s Playhouse because of the people. The people make this place a real community. This Playhouse is filled with the most kind-hearted, driven, and wonderful individuals (both volunteers and participants)!

Do you have a favorite memory at the Playhouse? If so, what is it?

I think my favorite memory is teaching James a subtraction song I had come up with the night before to the tune of “If You’re Happy And You Know It” and seeing his pure joy and excitement to sing along. I introduced that song in week three of tutoring, and we sang it every session afterwards! I loved seeing how the repetition of the song helped him excel at subtraction. 

What is one piece of advice you’d give to a new volunteer?

Try as many programs as you think you’ll like! There is a program for everyone at GiGi’s, and the range of programs is incredible! You will find something that you succeed at and makes you feel useful. 

As a volunteer, what is one thing you’d say to a new family who is curious about GiGi’s Playhouse?

Join the fun! You will not regret stepping into the Playhouse. As soon as your foot is inside the door, you will feel the love!

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of watching Ella’s passion and professionalism flourish. Each step of her journey has reflected a commitment to creating a more inclusive world. Beyond her podcast, Ella quickly became one of our most dedicated tutors, stepping into the role with empathy, creativity, and excellence. During her summers home from college, she has poured herself into her participants, building genuine and lasting relationships that have had an incredible impact on both their learning and their confidence. Ella embodies what it means to lead with both heart and action, and we are so grateful to have her as part of our GiGi’s family.