Volunteer of the Month – Erin!
This month, we are thrilled to recognize Erin as our Volunteer of the Month! Erin volunteers with our Leaps & Bounds program, bringing her joyful energy and unwavering passion for advocacy. Inspired by her brother Patrick, Erin’s dedication to inclusion shines brightly every time she enters the Playhouse with her warm smile and enthusiasm. She isn’t afraid to jump, dance, play, and be silly, creating a fun and welcoming environment for our participants. Erin’s commitment and kindness make her truly one of a kind, and we are so lucky to have her on our team. Be sure to check out Erin’s blog to learn more about her incredible story and the inspiration behind her work!
Tell us about you!
I worked as a special education teacher for more than 30 years. Now retired, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my friends and family. In addition, I occasionally work as a substitute teacher in my former school district and volunteer with another organization as well. Being a part of the GiGi’s community is a huge highlight in my retired life!
What got you involved at GiGi’s Playhouse? How long have you been involved?
I learned about GiGi’s Playhouse while attending a special needs resource fair at Cuyahoga Community College in 2023. I was looking for autism resources when I noticed the GiGi’s Playhouse table. I had a wonderful conversation with Lizz Maxwell, Executive Director, who shared with me the amazing scope and impact of GiGi’s, and the rest is history!
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Do you have a personal connection to the Down syndrome community?
I had a wonderful brother with Down syndrome. Patrick was the youngest of nine siblings and the light of all our lives for 58 incredible years! He was kind, charming, loving, mischievous, and funny- quite the character! Patrick loved spending time with our family, going bowling, playing mini golf, enjoying a McDonald’s meal, and all things Superman and Batman! He also liked watching shows featuring historical people/events, once falsely claiming that “General Custer was my great great great great grandfather on my mother’s side- I loved that man!” During the many trips we made over to Canada to spend time at our sister’s family’s cottage, Patrick would surprise the border guard by saying his citizenship was “Moscow”, despite our repeated practice of encouraging him to say “USA”. Our family cherishes hundreds of “Patrick stories” like these, and he is forever in our hearts.
What programs have you volunteered with at GiGi’s Playhouse?
I jumped right into Leaps & Bounds (pun intended)! This program holds a strong appeal for me because for the last 20 years of teaching, I served as a preschool intervention specialist. So this age group is my sweet spot!
Why did you start volunteering?
As I mentioned, my brother Patrick was the catalyst for volunteering at GiGi’s. And once my sister and niece in the Detroit, MI area learned about GiGi’s, they began volunteering at the GiGi’s Playhouse near them!
Why do you enjoy volunteering?
My parents used to say that we are all here to help each other, and I believe that. Volunteering my time gives me the opportunity to honor that belief. And what could be better than honoring my brother Patrick’s amazing life?!
Why do you love GiGi’s Playhouse?
There is so much to love about GiGi’s Playhouse! The children, adults, families and staff/volunteers are so wonderful to spend time with. The programs and services are wide-ranging, comprehensive and inclusive of all ages and abilities. The programs are thoughtfully planned and run with the intention of working toward each individual’s “Best of All!”
What impact has GiGi’s Playhouse had on you? What have you learned?
On volunteer days I wake up with a smile knowing that I’m going to have an amazing day at Leaps & Bounds. It is delightful to see each child explore the environment, pursue their interests, try new things, laugh and play, and initiate and respond to social interactions with those around them.
Do you have a favorite memory at the Playhouse? If so, what is it?
There are so many memories I cherish from my time thus far at GiGi’s. A mom recently shared with us that when her son woke up that morning, the very first thing he said was “GiGi’s!”
Another recent event comes to mind: I was sitting on the carpet when one little guy approached me and tapped me gently on the back. When I looked to see who it was, he smiled, waved, and said, “hi” before continuing on his way to a nearby activity area. I was so touched that he took the time to greet me so warmly!
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What is one piece of advice you’d give to a new volunteer?
Begin your visit by familiarizing yourself with the activities that the lead volunteer has carefully planned for the day. Ask questions for clarification as needed and then get ready for tons of fun and learning!
As a volunteer, what is one thing you’d say to a new family who is curious about GiGi’s Playhouse?
All are welcome, and all programs are free of charge! I would suggest that new families visit GiGi’s Playhouse to see it in action. I’m confident that they will know they’ve come to the right place! New families would also benefit from talking with the staff to get a detailed picture of all that GiGi’s has to offer. Finally, the GiGi’s website is a great resource for information.
What makes GiGi’s so special to you?
GiGi’s consistently offers the very best, most meaningful activities to encourage every individual with Down syndrome’s growth and achievement across all areas of development. I’m proud to be a small part of this incredible organization and am grateful for the opportunity to honor my brother Patrick’s memory!
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