Volunteer of the Month – Scott!

You may recognize Scott from his social media, @staybeautifulamerica, where he highlights local restaurants and businesses across Northeast Ohio. If you met him in person, though, you might never guess he’s built a large online presence doing so because at the Playhouse, Scott shows up as something even more amazing. He shows up as a consistent, present, and genuine friend.

When Scott first came through orientation at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland, he was quickly recognized as “The Chicken Wing Guy” from his social media. These days, he’s better known around the Playhouse as “Scotty-Wotty” or “Scott Donny”, a weekly volunteer in GiGiFIT Teen and Project Pulse Adult, a familiar face who will pop into Games with Friends Teen when he’s nearby, and someone we can text when we need a karaoke night sub (a role he happily leans into).

What stands out most about Scott isn’t a title or a role; it’s how naturally he connects. He meets participants exactly where they are: teens are teens who joke and laugh, adults are adults who want to talk about their lives, and everyone is treated with the same baseline respect and familiarity you’d expect from a friend. Because, in his words and in his actions, they are.

We invite you to get to know Scott a little bit more, as we recognize him as our Volunteer of the Month!

Tell us a little about yourself!

I’m the Founder of @staybeautifulamerica. I enjoy walking, lifting weights, riding my bike, karaoke, spending time with my girlfriend Courtney, and hanging out with my cat Leo. I started Stay Beautiful America a couple months after my dad suddenly passed away. I went to school for radio/TV communications and never did anything with my degree after graduating. After he passed, I realized life was too short not to go for something, no matter how crazy it seemed.

How did you first hear about GiGi’s Playhouse?

I’ve lived in Lakewood for about 7–8 years and passed the Playhouse thousands of times without really knowing what it was. Last summer, while swimming at the JCC in Akron with my mom, I met Harry. We were playing catch in the pool when his mom came over wearing a GiGi’s hat. After a few questions, I made a new friend and decided I was going to sign up to volunteer.

What inspired you to start volunteering, and how long have you been involved?

I had never volunteered for anything before GiGi’s. My time with Harry at the pool gave me the push I needed to start giving back. I’ve been involved since around September 2025.

What’s one skill or talent you bring to the Playhouse that others might not know about?

I’m not sure I’d call it a formal skill, but I consider myself a specialist in positivity and good vibes. I also have a “master’s degree” in the education of coaching.

Which programs or events have you volunteered for?

GiGiFIT Teen, Project Pulse Adult, and Games with Friends.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering at GiGi’s?

I really enjoy that hour of time spent with really cool people, doing really cool things.

What makes GiGi’s Playhouse special to you?

GiGi’s is special to me because it gives me a chance to just be myself, provide positivity and encouragement to a group of some of the happiest people I know. It feels like a place where I belong.

Do you have a favorite memory or moment at the Playhouse you’d like to share?

It’s tough to choose, but the World Down Syndrome Day video stands out. I never expected my friends to be involved with Stay Beautiful America, but hearing Abby, Harley, and Johnny say “Stay Beautiful America, I love you guys, have a good one” brought tears of joy. I also always enjoy the goofy antics inside the Playhouse.

What is one thing you’ve learned from your time as a volunteer?

Our friends are capable of anything they put their minds to. They are some of the coolest people I’ve had the pleasure of spending time with.

How has volunteering at GiGi’s impacted your life outside the Playhouse?

My life outside the Playhouse has continued to improve in all aspects since becoming part of the GiGi’s team. I can’t pinpoint one area. It just feels like my friends at the Playhouse have helped make me a better person and push me to be the best version of myself.

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting as a volunteer?

Come in and be a friend. It’s not rocket science. Just be yourself and contribute in a way that feels natural.

What would you say to a new family who is curious about GiGi’s Playhouse?

GiGi’s is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. If you are able to utilize this amazing resource, do it. You won’t regret it.

If you had to describe GiGi’s in three words, what would they be?

Extraordinary. Fantastic. Friends.

What keeps you coming back week after week?

Honestly, I just truly enjoy hanging with my friends.

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience?

I’ve been on a really weird journey since my dad died, and it took a while, but I’ve finally found my way. GiGi’s has played a crucial role in helping me realize the kind of human being I want to be. I’m truly grateful to be part of such a wonderful organization and always look forward to the next opportunity to be involved.

Scott’s presence at the Playhouse is steady in a way that doesn’t ask for attention, but still changes the energy of a room. Whether he’s helping lead a warm-up in GiGiFIT, keeping rhythm in Project Pulse, or simply showing up to hang out, he brings consistency, humor, and a clear sense of respect for the people around him. Scott’s story is a reminder that volunteering doesn’t require perfection or expertise, just a willingness to show up, be real, and treat people like they matter.