Volunteer of the Month – Jen!
Meet Jen, our incredible Volunteer of the Month! From the classroom to the Playhouse, Jen brings her passion for learning, connection, and community to everything she does. A psychology professor with a deep curiosity about memory, she spends her free time walking her dog, indulging in ice cream, and, most importantly, making a difference at GiGi’s Playhouse. Her journey here started with a simple act of kindness—one that sparked a lasting commitment. But what keeps her coming back, and what unforgettable moments has she shared with us? Keep reading to find out why Jen is such a beloved part of our GiGi’s family!
Tell us about you!
I am a psychology professor at Baldwin Wallace University. My focus within psychology is on how memory works. I love to read and spend A LOT of time walking my dog and eating ice cream.
How did you hear about GiGi’s?
When my daughter was in 7th grade, we went to the Family Kindness Festival on the east side. She was drawn to GiGi’s because Erin Alexeff was so approachable and kind as she described GiGi’s. We started volunteer training that summer and have been here ever since!
What got you involved at GiGi’s Playhouse? How long have you been involved?
My daughter, Caroline! She was really fascinated with learning about Down syndrome and how to help all people achieve their Best of All. We’ve both been volunteering now for about 2 years.
What programs have you volunteered with?
We volunteer at Music Makers, and last year we were able to represent GiGi’s at the Kindness Festival! It was so much fun to be back where we first learned about GiGi’s, and we are planning to do it again this year.
Why did you start volunteering?
I started volunteering because my daughter was so drawn to GiGi’s, and I thought it would be something fun that we could do together. I’m so glad that I started because it has been an absolutely amazing and meaningful experience for both of us.
Why do you enjoy volunteering?
Oh my goodness, volunteering is so much fun! We volunteers have a lot of fun at Music Makers – and seeing our friends singing, learning new signs, marching around the Playhouse, and playing the drums just never gets old. I love knowing that I can be a tiny bit of help to other parents so they can connect with each other while their kids are in good hands. Everyone leaves GiGi’s feeling great.
Why do you love GiGi’s Playhouse?
I really love everything about GiGi’s. The staff and volunteers are the friendliest people in the world, the families are loving and kind, and there is nothing better than seeing our friends do their Best of All! It is just a joyful place.
Why Do you have a favorite memory at the Playhouse? If so, what is it?
So many! Josie dancing on stage! Caden reading the ENTIRE mission! James and his buddy sharing the uke. Jane’s big smile. Probably my favorite memory is seeing my daughter connect with Nikki. They were fast friends, and I think both of them enjoy their time together.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to a new volunteer?
JUMP IN! There is no right or wrong way to do things. We always make things work.
As a volunteer, what is one thing you’d say to a new family who is curious about GiGi’s Playhouse?
I would tell a new family that there is no better place than GiGi’s! I would also say that the families, staff, and volunteers are AMAZING and will do anything they can to welcome them to the GiGi’s family!
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