Volunteer of the Month – Sydney!

Meet Sydney Wisnor, our inspiring Volunteer of the Month! Her passion for helping others shines through both in her academic pursuits and her time at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland. Since February 2023, Sydney has been volunteering across several programs, from LMNOP to Destination Discovery and tutoring, all while building a foundation for her future career in occupational therapy. Sydney’s heart was drawn to GiGi’s and from her first visit, she knew it was a special place and felt immediately at home. Over the past year and a half, she’s grown alongside the participants, breaking down stereotypes, and creating lasting memories. Her dedication, kindness, and genuine love for the community makes Sydney an invaluable part of the GiGi’s Playhouse family.

Tell us about you!

Hi, My name is Sydney Wisnor! I am a junior at Cleveland State University, studying Health Science/Pre-Occupational Therapy and minoring in Neuroscience. After graduation, I will attend CSU’s Doctoral OT program and wish to work with either neuro patients or children with special needs. In my spare time, I love going to the gym and spending time with my friends, family, and boyfriend.

What programs have you volunteered with?

I started with LMNOP, which I still do, then expanded to Destination Discovery, and Fall/Spring/Summer math tutoring.

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

I have been volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse since February 2023, so for a little over a year and half. I first got involved at GiGi’s because my parents attended a fundraising event and spoke about how amazing of an organization it was. After just my first volunteer orientation, I knew there was something special about GiGi’s. While I had never been exposed to individuals with Down syndrome before, I instantly felt called to volunteer here and become an advocate for those with Ds.

Why did you start volunteering?

I started volunteering because GiGi’s felt like home from the moment I stepped inside. Since I tend to be pretty quiet, I knew that it would push me out of my comfort zone, but I have loved every minute of it. I also started because I knew how beneficial it would be for me in my future career. I have gotten to volunteer alongside other OT’s, OT students, and speech therapists, who I have learned so much from!

Why do you enjoy volunteering?

I love GiGi’s because of the unwavering joy and positivity that every single person here exudes– whether it be Lizz, Mary, the program directors, volunteers, family members, or participants. Everyone you come into contact with has some of the kindest hearts you will ever encounter.

What impact has GiGi’s Playhouse had on you? What have you learned?

GiGi’s has had more of an impact on me than I even realize. It has made me more accepting, understanding, and patient with everyone I meet. Additionally, it has broken so many stereotypes that I had heard about people with Down syndrome.

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

While I can’t pick just one memory, there are moments that stick out to me that always make me smile. Since I have been volunteering at LMNOP for a year and a half, I have watched many of the babies turn into toddlers, and watching their growth month-by-month has been such a rewarding experience. I love when Ms. Amanda does our signs and the toddlers start to pick up on them and do them independently. I have watched many of them go from their parents modeling the signs, to doing hand-over-hand sign, and now they’re doing them completely on their own! I also love tutoring because it allows me to come up with creative, fun ways for the participants to learn concepts and I get to help them achieve their Best of All! I am always so proud when one of my participants finally masters a skill we have been working so hard on!

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

A piece of advice I would give a new volunteer is to always assume capability. The individuals that I have worked with consistently blow me away by how intelligent, funny, loving, and capable they truly are.

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

Come join the fun! The moment you step into the Playhouse, even if just for a simple tour, you will quickly realize how magical of a place it is. Not only are there a multitude of FREE programs that will change your child’s life, but it also gives you, as parents, a community of people who deeply understand what you’re going through. Parents of neurotypical children may be able to sympathize for you, but the parents you meet here will truly be able to empathize with you because they have gone through many of the same situations you have.

What makes GiGi’s so special to you?

GiGi’s is so special to me because of its ability to make each and every person feel so incredibly welcomed, loved, and accepted. Whether you’re a participant, parent, family member, or volunteer, you will instantly feel the love and care that everyone at GiGi’s has to offer. 

Sydney, thank you for all the light and love you pour into our Playhouse! Your attention to detail, creativity, and caring heart do not go unnoticed. We are grateful for your fierce advocacy for all those we serve!