Honoring Our 2025 Volunteers of the Year: Mike & Linda Polansky

At GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do. They bring enthusiasm, kindness, and dedication, helping to create a space where individuals with Down syndrome can grow, thrive, and be celebrated. Each year, we recognize an individual—or in this case, a couple—who embodies our mission with unwavering passion and love.

This year, we are thrilled to honor Mike and Linda Polansky as our 2025 Volunteers of the Year!

A Journey of Love and Service

Mike and Linda’s story began with a simple Friday afternoon tour. New to the Fargo area, they were searching for a way to feel connected to their granddaughter, Sophia Rose, who was born with Down syndrome and later diagnosed with autism. Though miles separated them, they wanted to find a way to stay close to her heart.

That search led them to GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo, where they instantly felt at home. From their first volunteer shift in GiGi’s Kitchen to becoming regular, welcoming faces at the Playhouse, their impact has been nothing short of extraordinary.

What started as an occasional way to give back quickly turned into something much deeper—not just for the Playhouse, but for them as well. As Mike and Linda say:

“Some of our absolute best friends are at GiGi’s. We laugh together, share stories, and even, on occasion, start walking around like chickens when preparing a poultry dish! Monday nights have become our ‘date night’—a time to serve alongside our best friends.”

More Than Volunteers- They Are Family

Mike and Linda’s commitment to GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo has gone beyond the kitchen. From lending a hand with administrative support to taking on leadership roles on our board, they have become invaluable members of our family. Their kindness and humility shine through in everything they do, and their belief in our mission is evident in every interaction.

When asked about receiving this award, Mike and Linda responded with genuine surprise and humility:

“Recognition like this is not something we seek, want, or expect—it is simply not why we volunteer. But if there is one takeaway from our journey, it is this: Life is full of unexpected challenges, but these challenges can teach us to love deeper, put others first, and remember that we are all God’s children, no matter what we look like or how we start our life.”

A Call to Serve

Mike and Linda’s journey is a testament to the power of giving back, embracing community, and finding joy in service. They remind us that even the smallest acts of kindness can create an immeasurable impact.

“If our story inspires you, we encourage you to follow us to GiGi’s Playhouse. Become part of something bigger. Become a better version of yourself. You will never regret it.”

To Mike and Linda Polansky—thank you for your dedication, love, and service. Your presence at GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo makes our community stronger, and we are beyond grateful to celebrate you as our 2025 Volunteers of the Year.

💜 Interested in volunteering? Learn how you can get involved at GiGi’s Playhouse Fargo! Click here to join us.