Board Member Spotlight: Mark Brincat

Mark has been a member of our board for only a few months, but you wouldn’t know it by his level of involvement. He didn’t waste a minute before jumping in with both feet!

Mark’s relationship with GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit began through an annual golf fundraiser his family’s foundation hosts. In 1999 they began the Mallory Brincat Memorial Fund, in honor of their beautiful daughter who passed away at 2 ½ years old. Each year they choose a different children’s organization to donate proceeds from the golf outing to. Last summer they chose GiGi’s because they have a few people with Down syndrome in their lives and our mission spoke to them. As a result, we were the recipient of a very generous check for 10K, but Mark didn’t stop there!

In December 2022 he joined our Board of Managers and has since brought in several connections that greatly benefit our Playhouse. For example, the President of Detection System Engineering happens to be a good friend of Mark’s and has agreed to provide a long-needed security system for us at no charge! Mark attends each board meeting with enthusiasm and a get-to-work attitude. He quickly volunteers to help with things like our End of Year appeal letter and calling families for feedback on programs.

Mark lives in Commerce Township with his wife, Sandy, of 34 yrs. In addition to Mallory, they have two children, Megan and Joey, and two granddaughters, Francesca and Vivienne. Another board member, Rose, who works with Mark’s daughter and knows the Brincats outside of GiGi’s, says they are some of the kindest, funniest people she’s ever met. They are always thinking of others and how to have a good time, which is why the Mallory Brincat Memorial Golf Outing just celebrated their 23^rd year!

Mark has had an incredible impact on our Playhouse in a very short time, and we are so lucky to have his support!

Please take a moment to get to know him more below!

Hi Mark, what’s a fun fact about you that might surprise us?

I have a degree in Criminal Justice and worked for several years as a Financial Crimes Investigator.

What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests?

I enjoy home improvement and barbecuing.

What is your specific role on the board?

I am the Committee Lead for Donor Relations, and a Committee Member for Third Party Events and Networking & Community Events.

What inspires you about the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse?

Advancing overall skills and self-realization for people with Down syndrome, while fostering awareness and acceptance in the community.

How has volunteering here impacted your life?

I should have done this earlier.

Do you have a favorite memory from your experiences at GiGi’s?  

Although I have only been on the board a short time, I did attend the Christmas Party. I must say, seeing the kids’ faces light up when Santa entered the room was a highlight.

Why do you believe people with Down syndrome are an important part of our community?

They are compassionate, pure, and loving.

What would you say is the biggest misconception about individuals with Down syndrome?

That they cannot integrate into society or our community.

What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse?

Get involved, it is very rewarding and gratifying to help.

Do you have a favorite quote?

“Live, Love, Laugh.”

Thank you, Mark, for the spark and passion you bring to our Playhouse! We are thrilled to have you on our team!

Stay tuned for more Board Member Spotlights in the coming months!