A Message From Our Executive Director…

I’ll never forget my interview with the team from GiGi’s Playhouse, and the first impression that this place gave me.  Even though it was quiet with no activity on site, the beauty and whimsical atmosphere of the Playhouse “had me at hello”. I could only imagine how different the welcome area, performance stage, gym, art studio and tutoring rooms would look when filled with participants and volunteers.  I marveled at all that was contained inside the building I’d driven by a thousand times, never giving it much thought. “What a treasure”, I thought.  I knew right then that I wanted to be part of GiGi’s Playhouse. 

My first day at the office wasn’t at the office at all, it was at the annual golf outing at Jester Park Golf Course on October 7^th. It was a gorgeous day, and the perfect setting for a great event.  Another sign that my tenure at GiGi’s will be exciting and rewarding.  

But the biggest reward to date came this past Tuesday, when a full day of programming introduced me to a Playhouse filled with participants, parents and volunteers at GiGiFIT, GiGi’s Kitchen and Music Makers. Even though everyone was meeting me for the first time, I was greeted with wall-to-wall smiles and handshakes, fist bumps and high fivers. And then lots of hugs when it was time to say goodbye. 

Not bad for my first week on the job.  The best first week on the job I’ve ever had. Yep, I think I’m going to like it here. 

I’m looking forward to meeting many more of the GiGi’s family in Des Moines, and I hope you’ll stop in to say hello very soon. 

John Claes 

Executive Director