Volunteer Spotlight: Shannon Gierlach

We are honored to highlight a very special volunteer who has taken the reigns of one of our newest programs and made it soar!

Back in December 2023, Shannon Gierlach answered a facebook post calling for someone to lead GiGi’s Kitchen Adult. Although she had no prior experience with the Down syndrome community or GiGi’s Playhouse, one month later the program was hers and she’s been slaying it ever since!

Knowing we’re all #StrongerTogether, Shannon regularly promotes our posts on social media platforms to recruit more volunteers. She also goes above and beyond the culinary requirements of GiGi’s Kitchen by constantly thinking outside the box to address the personal needs of our participants. She gets very creative with the recipes she chooses each week, while meeting unique dietary considerations of participants and promoting health and nutrition.

Please take a moment to get to know Shannon below…

What is your daytime occupation, and where?

I spent 15 years in Health Care Administration, until recently. On to a new venture, I am now the Controller/Office Manger for G&F Prototype in Fraser, as well as a full-time Dog Mom.

What are some of your favorite hobbies and interests outside of GiGi’s?

Traveling!! I have an extended love for the beach and exploring new places. I also enjoy golf, fishing, sporting clays, hunting, and am a big sports fan.

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

Twins run in my family! I am a twin, I have older twin brothers, and have twin nieces!

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

I love seeing the participants’ skills grow over time, and the friendships I have been able to build with each of them. And hugs! Can never have enough love and hugs!

How has volunteering here impacted your life?

Being part of GiGi’s is more than just volunteering for me, it is a second family and group of friends. Giving back to the community has filled a void I’ve been searching for. I have volunteered with other organizations in the past, and GiGi’s is THE special place!

What are some of your favorite memories from volunteering?

Seeing the participants’ excitement each week when they arrive, ready to get cooking! And of course, our impromptu dance parties in the kitchen!

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

I would say the biggest misconception, is individuals with Down Syndrome cannot be active members of their community. This is a Myth! In fact, our friends with an extra chromosome are valued members of their families and communities, and make meaningful contributions to society.

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

I believe those with Down syndrome help us see there is nothing inherently bad or shameful about having a disability, and it’s important to recognize that a disability is only part of a person!

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

Don’t walk – RUN!! Being part of the Playhouse is much more than volunteering!!

Do you have a favorite quote?

“Nothing is impossible, the word itself says, ‘I’m possible’!“

Thank you, Shannon, for the positive energy, creativity, thoughtfulness, and and we are grateful for all that you do!

Are you feeling inspired??

We have plenty of volunteer opportunities that would certainly suit your interests and time allowance. You can learn more and fill out a volunteer interest form HERE!