Volunteer Spotlight: Tamara Fobare

“It’s like everyday is their “Best of All” moment. I feel connected to Winston even though he didn’t get to experience the impact of GiGi’s Playhouse.”

– Tamara Fobare

It is our absolute pleasure to recognize an incredibly kind hearted and genuine woman who volunteers with GiGi’s Playhouse Detroit, Tamara Fobare.

Tamara first got involved with our Playhouse in September, 2021. One of ten children, Tamara found out about GiGi’s Playhouse while researching resources for eldest brother, Winston, who had Down syndrome. Sadly, Winston never got to experience our programs, but Tamara became involved to keep close ties with him. She now volunteers with many programs, including Fantastic Friends, Art Explosion, Special Olympics Young Athletes, Kids Club, and Math Tutoring. WOW! Tamara has also helped with our events, and recently teamed up with her neighbors, Royal Oak Schools, and the city of Royal Oak to promote World Down Syndrome Day and raise money for the Playhouse.

An avid reader and runner, Tamara lives in Royal Oak, with her husband, Greg, and 3 young adult children, Greta, Harrison, and Andrew. Last Christmas, Tamara even involved two of her kids (below) in raising awareness and funds through gift wrapping at a local running shop!

Please take a moment to enjoy this interview with Tamara…

Hi Tamara, tell us about your daytime occupation.

I have many odd jobs, but currently I volunteer with a National campaign, and coach JV Girls’ Lacrosse at Royal Oak High School. I also serve as a member of the Board of Directors for a charter school in Madison Heights. 

What’s a fun fact about you that might surprise us?

My parents emigrated from The Netherlands, and my Dad was in Detroit on residency. Shortly after their arrival, my oldest brother, Winston, was born. Winston’s birth, diagnosis of Down syndrome, and health journey was the main reason my parents were able to stay and eventually become U.S. citizens. My Dad appealed to the State Department to remain in Michigan as Winston needed heart surgery.  Without Winston’s extra chromosome, we may have been Dutch citizens living in Europe!

What is it about the mission of GiGi’s Playhouse that appeals to you, personally?

I love that GiGi’s serves people with Down syndrome of all ages as well as their siblings, and provides the programs at no cost to families. Everyone is so welcoming and enthusiastic whenever I am at the Playhouse. It is heartwarming to see that while these parents have unique challenges, they can find a respite in what GiGi’s Playhouse has to offer.

What do you love about being at GiGi’s? What keeps you coming back?

I enjoy seeing the smiles of the participants and their family members. It’s like everyday is their “Best of All” moment. I feel connected to Winston even though he didn’t get to experience the impact of GiGi’s Playhouse.

How has volunteering here impacted your life?

Volunteering is a simple way to offer my time and efforts. I find that volunteering at GiGi’s makes me slowdown a bit and take a breather from the normal chaos the day can bring.

Do you have a favorite memory from volunteering? 

I volunteer with the Fantastic Friends adult program on the 1st Friday of each month. I recently missed one, and upon my return, one of the participants remarked, “you’re back! I missed you last month!” I was so touched that he remembered not seeing me in the group! 

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

I think a big misconception is “people with DS are not able to [fill in the blank]”, ie: participate, engage, read, be active, understand. Winston understood exactly what was going on around him, from the many cats in the house, to all his siblings, nieces and nephews running around and creating busyness! As with any human, if it seems like they’re missing something, it just takes time and patience to show them and redirect or model the desired behavior.

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

GiGi’s Playhouse is a great place to volunteer as there are several different options and age-groups to get involved with. Whether it’s tutoring math or literacy, or assisting with baby to adult-aged programs, there are a number of programs that fit within various schedules. They even offer virtual programs, as my sister in California was able to tutor someone in Colorado for a session.

Do you have a favorite quote?

“Petit à petit, on devient moins petit”.

-“Little by little, one becomes less little.” – From an old Dannon/Yoplait yogurt add.

Thank you, Tamara, for all the good you do in the world, and especially in our Playhouse!

Are you feeling inspired??

As Tamara said, we have plenty of volunteer opportunities that would certainly suit your interests and time allowance. Please join us for our next volunteer orientation, Tuesday, July 9th, at 7 PM. If you have any questions, email lleotti@gigisplayhouse.org or call the Playhouse at 248-557-9899.