Volunteer Spotlight – Erin S!

A Speech-Language Pathologist by day, but a GiGi’s Volunteer Superstar at Music Makers and Games with Friends – our volunteer spotlight is Erin Sweeney!!

Erin officially joined our GiGi’s family in March of 2022, but by how she interacts with our friends and families in the Playhouse, you would think she has been a part of the team since we opened. You can find Erin playing board games two Thursdays out of the month, making music with our school-agers on a Saturday, or giving her time to the Playhouse in any way she can. She has a knack for creating conversation, making anyone laugh, but most importantly – anyone that interacts with Erin instantly feels like they belong. Beth Bullock, the Program Lead for Games with Friends, echoed that sentiment, saying, “Erin has really been a nice addition to Games with Friends. I love how she makes everyone feel at ease, even if they are new to the program!” Mary Makulinski, the interim Music Makers Program Lead shared, “Erin is such a go-getter! She’s not afraid to be silly, lead by example, and is 100% present for the participants!” Another fun fact – Erin is the cousin to long-time GiGiFIT, Games with Friends, and Project Pulse participant – Pat Cooney!!

Erin! We are so thankful for your amazing presence at GiGi’s Playhouse Cleveland!

Hi! I’m Erin and I’m a speech therapist. I’m new here at GiGi’s Playhouse, but lucky for me, I’m not new to the world of Down syndrome. I was blessed to grow up with both my Aunt Peggy and my cousin Pat who rock an extra chromosome. Pat has been coming to programs at GiGi’s for a few years now and I don’t know what took me so long to join him. Assisting with Music Makers and Games with Friends fills me with joy. I don’t think I’ve ever been anywhere where I was welcomed so warmly from day one from every single person I’ve met, including participants, other volunteers, and families. Being a part of this community and the GiGi’s mission has been everything I hoped it would be, and more!